Critics at Large | The New Yorker
“The Substance” and the New Horror of the Modified Body
Oct 3, 2024
Dive into the darkly comedic world of body horror, where aging and perfection collide. A new narrative uncovers the societal obsession with youth through the lens of films like 'The Substance.' The haunting consequences of body modification and the haunting visuals of transformation raise questions about identity. Amidst the grotesque, discussions also challenge beauty standards driven by social media. As hosts dissect the horrors of societal pressure, they ponder how we can find peace in our ever-changing exteriors.
48:47
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The podcast discusses how body horror in films like 'The Substance' mirrors societal anxieties about aging and physicality.
- It explores the negative influence of media and celebrity culture on personal identity, driving individuals toward unrealistic beauty standards.
Deep dives
The Rise of Body Horror in Contemporary Cinema
Body horror has been gaining prominence in recent films, serving as a lens through which to explore societal anxieties about the human body. This sub-genre is characterized by grotesque transformations and violations of the body, aiming to evoke discomfort and dread. The ongoing interest in body horror reflects a cultural fixation on physicality, particularly how modern technology and aesthetics influence our perceptions of self. Films like 'The Substance' are part of a broader conversation about how individuals navigate their identities in an age dominated by norms of beauty and youth.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
