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On with Kara Swisher
Why Ben Stiller Made Severance (and Doesn’t Care about What Elon Says About Him)
Feb 3, 2025
Ben Stiller, an acclaimed actor and director, dives deep into the success of 'Severance,' revealing how its unique premise reshapes our understanding of identity in the workplace and beyond. He reflects on the show's commentary on surveillance and corporate control, drawing parallels to real-world issues. Stiller also shares his candid thoughts on making political art and discusses humorous yet poignant moments from the series, even addressing criticisms from tech moguls like Elon Musk with clarity and wit. Tune in for a blend of humor and insightful dialogue!
01:01:26
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Quick takeaways
- Ben Stiller recognized the potential of 'Severance' from its writing sample, leading to its success and cultural commentary.
- The series intricately explores themes of surveillance and identity, prompting audiences to reflect on their own relationships with work.
Deep dives
The Unique Premise of Severance
The series 'Severance' presents a dystopian work environment where employees at a company called Lumen have the option to sever their memories, creating distinct identities for work and personal life. This concept raises intriguing questions about self-identity and the trade-offs individuals make for work-life balance. The stark contrast between the characters' 'innie' and 'outie' selves sparks discussions about societal norms and personal experiences. The unique premise serves as a satirical commentary on modern work culture, prompting audiences to reflect on their own relationships with their jobs.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode