One of Them Movies About Women That Stuns Hollywood by Being a Hit
Jan 29, 2025
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The discussion kicks off with a review of the hit buddy comedy featuring Keke Palmer and SZA, blending humor with social commentary. Listeners are treated to insights on a Netflix series focusing on sisterly dynamics, showcasing deep emotional storytelling. The panel dives into the impact of YouTube culture on modern masculinity and political behaviors, raising questions about identity in a changing landscape. They also explore the artistic tensions between film and television, looking at how narrative depth can shift across mediums.
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Quick takeaways
The film 'One of Them Days' highlights economic struggles faced by young adults in South LA through the dynamic between two roommates.
Netflix's 'Asura' intricately explores the intersection of family loyalty and individual desires among four sisters against 1970s Japanese societal norms.
The discussion on the manosphere underscores its significant influence on young male voters, intertwining bro culture with political beliefs.
Deep dives
Exploring Economic Themes in 'One of Them Days'
The film 'One of Them Days' centers on two roommates, Drew and Alyssa, navigating economic instability in South LA. Drew, portrayed by Kiki Palmer, aspires to rise through the ranks at her diner job, while Alyssa, played by SZA in her debut role, embodies a carefree artist whose antics complicate their lives. A key scene showcases their desperate attempt to secure a payday loan, revealing both characters' struggles with low credit scores and financial mismanagement. This scenario not only reflects personal dilemmas but also serves as a commentary on wider economic issues affecting young adults today.
Complexities of Sisterhood in 'Asura'
'Asura' explores the intricate dynamics between four sisters confronting their father's infidelity in 1970s Japan. The series highlights their differing responses to family secrets and societal expectations, allowing a deep dive into themes of womanhood and entitlement. The complexity of their relationships reveals how each sister navigates personal desires against the backdrop of familial loyalty and cultural customs. The show paints a nuanced portrait of sisterhood, showcasing both conflict and unity amid the broader historical context of Japan's transformation.
Political Influence of the Manosphere
An analysis of the manosphere reveals its significant impact on young male voters, particularly in relation to the rise of Donald Trump. The content produced in this space often emphasizes bro culture and masculinity while subtly embedding political narratives. A notable point is that a majority of guests on these podcasts are men, with only a small percentage being women, which showcases a glaring gender disparity. This environment fosters a worldview that resonates with young men, shaping their political beliefs and ultimately influencing election outcomes in ways that are often overlooked.
Narratives of Manhood in Contemporary Culture
The discussion delves into evolving perceptions of manhood amidst political and cultural shifts over recent years. Hosts reflect on a fleeting period where kindness and emotional intelligence were recognized as traits of masculinity, highlighting a contrast to current prevailing narratives. There’s a shared sense of loss for a positive vision of manhood, as a more aggressive, entitlement-driven model resurfaces. This change raises questions about how men, especially young ones, navigate their identity in the face of contemporary societal challenges.
Culture Gab Fest: Insightful Conversations
The episode features engaging discussions around recent films and shows, as well as their broader cultural implications. It promotes a thoughtful critique of contemporary narratives in cinema and television, touching on themes of gender, race, and economic struggle. The hosts not only analyze content but also connect it to real-world issues, sparking a conversation about representation and societal expectations. This blend of critique and insight demonstrates the podcast's commitment to exploring nuanced perspectives, making it a valuable listen for those interested in culture and media.
On this week’s show, Dan Kois sits in for Dana Stevens. First, the hosts discuss One of Them Days, a new buddy comedy starring Keke Palmer and SZA that’s quickly becoming a critical darling — and a box office success. Then, they dive into Asura, Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Netflix show that’s about the dynamics between three sisters and is “totally uninterested in the rhythms of a TV show.” Finally, it’s time to explore the “manosphere.” The trio dissected a deftly reported package from Bloomberg, “The Second Trump Presidency, Brought to You by YouTubers.”
Also, we’re looking for a new Production Assistant! Please send your resume and two ideas for segments to culturegabfestassistant@gmail.com.
In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel tackles modern TV title sequences and asks the age-old question: do you skip or play? This conversation was inspired by James Poniewozik’s article for The New York Times, “Why Do TV Title Sequences Have So Much… Stuff?”