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Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

HTDE: Tom Hanks, Hot Dogs and Chimp Butts

Sep 18, 2024
In this lively conversation, Tom Hanks, the beloved actor behind classics like Forrest Gump, shares delightful stories about receiving standing ovations at film festivals. He reflects on the unpredictable relationship between acclaim and box office success, sparking humorous debates over 'world famous' hot dog joints. The discussion hilariously detours into how chimpanzees and humans recognize each other by their posteriors, blending whimsy with science. With playful banter, Hanks and the hosts explore the joy of fame and the quirks of identity.
22:01

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Tom Hanks reveals the mixed emotions performers can feel regarding standing ovations, showcasing their paradoxical nature of flattery and discomfort.
  • The podcast humorously examines the concept of world fame, illustrating how establishments like JB's hot dogs validate their status through global recognition.

Deep dives

The Dynamics of Standing Ovations

Standing ovations can generate mixed feelings for performers. Tom Hanks shares his experiences at film festivals, recounting how he received an impressive 11-minute standing ovation for a Coen brothers film that ultimately performed poorly at the box office. In contrast, he describes feeling the audience's disappointment during a screening of 'The Da Vinci Code,' where two-thirds of the viewers left before the credits. He emphasizes the paradox of public applause, noting that while a prolonged ovation is flattering, it can feel exhausting and uncomfortable, leading one to wish for the moment to end.

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