Walt Hickey, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of "You Are What You Watch," delves into how our media consumption profoundly impacts our physical and mental states. He shares fascinating insights, such as horror films triggering physiological responses and how a classic movie like 101 Dalmatians can boost pet adoptions. Hickey emphasizes the value of reflective media consumption, the portrayal of women in popular culture, and the societal role of storytelling in helping us process fears and anxieties.
Movies have historically shaped public opinion and societal norms.
Pop culture, including movies and TV, has a profound impact on individuals and society.
Data analysis can provide valuable insights into the impact of movies and TV on individuals and society.
Deep dives
The Influence of Movies on Public Opinion
Movies have historically influenced public opinion and shaped societal norms. The podcast episode emphasizes that movies are more than just entertainment; they have been instrumental in shaping people's ideas about what's normal and how to live a good life. The history of Hollywood serves as evidence of the significant impact movies have had on steering public opinion and influencing cultural perceptions. It is argued that understanding the influence of popular culture, including movies, is essential to comprehending how it shapes our world.
The Importance of Taking Pop Culture Seriously
The podcast episode highlights the importance of taking pop culture seriously. The guest, Walt Hickey, a data expert and journalist, argues in his book 'You Are What You Watch' that pop culture should not be dismissed as frivolous or superficial. Instead, Hickey asserts that pop culture, including movies and television, has a profound impact on individuals and society. He urges people to look beyond the surface and recognize the ways in which popular culture affects our thoughts, behaviors, and perspectives. Hickey's perspective challenges the notion that pop culture is a waste of time and emphasizes the need to appreciate its significance.
The Role of Data in Understanding Pop Culture
The podcast episode explores the role of data in understanding and analyzing pop culture. Walt Hickey, a Pulitzer Prize-winning data journalist, combines his expertise in data analysis with his passion for popular culture in his book. He argues that data can provide valuable insights into the impact of movies and television on individuals and society. Hickey uses charts, graphs, and scientific studies to support his larger argument that pop culture should be taken seriously. By examining the ways in which pop culture affects our bodies, brains, and emotions, Hickey aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the role it plays in our lives.
The Impact of Pop Culture and Entertainment
Pop culture and entertainment have a real impact that goes beyond being frivolous. They have a remarkable effect on the world and can change lives in meaningful ways. For example, movies like Beethoven and 101 Dalmatians led to spikes in adoptions of Saint Bernard and Dalmatian dogs respectively. Representation in media also matters, with shows like Sex and the City and Grey's Anatomy influencing career choices and aspirations. The power of entertainment lies in its ability to make things seem possible and to shape our daydreams and aspirations.
The Blueprint for Enduring and Excellent Cultural Works
Enduring and excellent cultural works have certain characteristics in common. One key aspect is the ability to effectively communicate a clear message in various ways, whether it be through visuals, metaphors, dialogue, or other means. Consistency and coherence are crucial for the message to resonate with the audience. An example of a movie that achieves this is Titanic, which masterfully conveys its themes and emotions through multiple storytelling techniques. The most successful artworks have a lasting impact by delivering a message that is honest, coherent, and skillfully executed.
Guest host Alissa Wilkinson speaks with Walt Hickey about his new book, You Are What You Watch: How Movies and TV Affect Everything. They discuss how entertainment affects the physical and mental states of viewers — from blood coagulation during horror movie screenings to an increase in Dalmatian adoptions after 101 Dalmatians was released in theaters — and why our responses to what we watch are worth celebrating.
