Movies vs. Capitalism Trading Places (w/ Jamel Johnson)
Aug 15, 2023
Jamel Johnson, comedian and podcaster, joins the hosts to discuss the film Trading Places and its exploration of wealth inequality. They delve into the 'nature vs. nurture' debate, praise the satirical depiction of the upper class, but also highlight the film's problematic racism and sexism. The rise of neoliberalism in the 1980s is attributed in part to the success of Michael Jackson's Thriller. They touch on exploitative practices in reality TV, power dynamics within organizations, and the LA comedy scene. The differences in public transit between Los Angeles and New York are also compared.
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Episode notes
Accidental Involvement
- Jamel Johnson's involvement with Little Secret LA began unexpectedly.
- He performed stand-up, hosted a panel, and even met Steve Donziger.
Commanding Presence
- During a panel at Little Secret LA, Chris Small's ability to command the room impressed Jamel Johnson.
- Small encouraged the audience to move closer to the stage, demonstrating his charisma.
Beloved Film
- Trading Places is a cherished film for Jamel Johnson, having watched and even stolen it on DVD.
- The film's impact resonated deeply with him.