The hosts explore James Mangold's charming biopic on Bob Dylan, delving into themes of fame and artistry. They also discuss Dick Wolf's new streaming cop procedural in Long Beach, analyzing modern policing narratives. A heartfelt tribute to David Lynch follows, celebrating his surreal storytelling and emotional impact. The panel dives into personal experiences with culture, reflecting on the most electrifying moments shared with others. Recommendations range from dance documentaries to murder mysteries, promoting further cultural exploration.
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Quick takeaways
James Mangold's film 'A Complete Unknown' explores Bob Dylan's fame and artistic evolution amid personal struggles and public perception.
Dick Wolf's 'On Call' reinvents the police procedural genre by focusing on a single shift and incorporating immersive body camera footage.
The legacy of David Lynch, who passed away at 78, is marked by his unique storytelling that blends the surreal with profound emotional experiences.
Deep dives
James Mangold's Exploration of Bob Dylan
The film 'A Complete Unknown,' directed by James Mangold, delves into Bob Dylan's transformation from a rising folk musician to a rock icon in the mid-1960s. It portrays his journey beginning in Greenwich Village, where he navigated the folk music scene, before his controversial electric performance at the Newport Folk Festival that alienated some early fans. The film centers around key characters such as Joan Baez and Pete Seeger, highlighting the relationships that influenced Dylan's creative path. Through engaging dialogue and performances, characters reflect on the implications of Dylan's fame and artistry, emphasizing the dichotomy between public admiration and personal struggles.
Unique Perspective on Policing in 'On Call'
The new series 'On Call' offers a fresh take on the police procedural format through its half-hour episode structure, showcasing a gripping narrative focused on a single shift involving a rookie and a veteran cop. By utilizing body camera footage, the show delivers an immersive experience that heightens the urgency and intensity of action scenes. While it retains the formulaic elements typical of Dick Wolf productions, it seeks to explore the complexities of modern policing and the impact of society's relationship with law enforcement. The dynamic between the two main characters provides insights into their evolving partnership and personal challenges, contributing to the show's fast-paced storytelling.
David Lynch's Groundbreaking Legacy
The recent passing of David Lynch at 78 has led to reflections on his diverse body of work, which defies conventional categorization by spanning genres and styles. From surreal horror to poignant drama, Lynch's films like 'Mulholland Drive' and 'Blue Velvet' are characterized by their unique narrative structures, blending dream logic with unsettling reality. Lynch's propensity for the uncanny grants audiences the opportunity to grapple with the strange and complex human experience, often eliciting deep emotional responses. His ability to transform the mundane into the bizarre has earned him the term 'Lynchian,' solidifying his status as a visionary filmmaker and cultural icon.
Comedy and Connection in 'The Thursday Murder Club'
Richard Osman's 'The Thursday Murder Club' series presents an engaging blend of comedy and mystery set in a retirement community, featuring a group of eccentric senior sleuths. The characters navigate intriguing murder cases while showcasing their wit and camaraderie, making it both a delightful and entertaining read. Osman deftly combines humor with intriguing plot twists, ensuring that readers remain engaged with the unfolding mystery. The novel's charm lies in its portrayal of life in a retirement home, highlighting moments of friendship and resilience amidst the backdrop of crime-solving.
Insightful Dance Documentary: 'The Soul of the Dance'
The documentary 'The Soul of the Dance' offers an intimate look at the life of acclaimed ballerina Uliana Lopatkina, showcasing her artistic journey with the Kirov Ballet. By featuring behind-the-scenes rehearsals and performances, it provides a rare glimpse into the rigorous world of ballet and what it takes to excel. Lopatkina's articulate reflections on her experiences and creative process elevate the film, allowing viewers to appreciate the depth of dedication and artistry involved in her craft. This documentary serves as a celebration of dance, inviting audiences to explore not just the performances, but the profound commitment and emotion that defines a dancer's life.
On this week’s show, the hosts dive into A Complete Unknown, director James Mangold’s surprisingly charming Bob Dylan biopic that’s all about fame and what it looks like to be adjacent to it. Then, the three explore Dick Wolf’s latest project: On Call, a half-hour cop procedural set in Long Beach, California that’s streaming on Prime Video. Finally, the trio remembers David Lynch, the iconic, singular filmmaker who passed away last week at the age of 78.
In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel goes electric themselves and responds to a listener question from Rob: “Would you reminisce about the most electric experience you’ve had consuming a piece of culture with other people?”