The New Yorker Radio Hour Pick 3: Justin Chang’s Downer Movies for the Holiday Season
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Dec 3, 2024 
In a thought-provoking conversation, film critic Justin Chang from The New Yorker shares his picks for holiday movie viewing that lean towards the serious side. He dives into gripping tales like 'Nickel Boys,' adapted from Colson Whitehead’s novel, and highlights the haunting 'The Brutalist' featuring Adrien Brody, along with Mike Leigh's impactful 'Hard Truths.' Chang challenges the notion that holiday films must be light, quoting Roger Ebert to reinforce that meaningful storytelling surpasses superficial joy.
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Alternative Holiday Films
- Consider Justin Chang's alternative holiday film recommendations if blockbusters aren't appealing.
- He suggests thought-provoking, potentially "downer" movies.
Quality over Mood
- Good movies, even with heavy themes, are never depressing.
- Only bad movies are truly depressing, according to Roger Ebert.
Nickel Boys: A Harrowing Story
- "Nickel Boys," directed by RaMell Ross, adapts Colson Whitehead's novel.
- It portrays two young Black men's harrowing experiences in a 1960s Florida reform school.
