Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud How US politics shapes the discourse around what we see onscreen, and Daniel Caesar's new album
8 snips
Oct 29, 2025 
Kathryn VanArendonk, a culture critic from Vulture, discusses the political nuances of 'The Diplomat' and compares it to the 'West Wing.' El Jones, a poet and political commentator, explores how U.S. politics influences geopolitical narratives in film. They also analyze Catherine Bigelow's 'A House of Dynamite' and its portrayal of military narratives. Music journalist Natalie Harmsen reviews Daniel Caesar's new album, highlighting its spiritual themes and family influences, while critiquing the lyrical depth compared to his previous works.
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Episode notes
West Wing Roots, Messier Characters
- The Diplomat repackages West Wing-style faith in competent institutions with messy, human characters.
- That mix lets the show feel earnest about diplomacy while acknowledging self-doubt and personal flaws.
Show Reveals Limits Of Liberalism
- The Diplomat exposes the limits of liberal internationalism by treating hard choices as inevitable rather than questioned.
- El Jones argues the show comforts viewers with smart people debating problems but ultimately preserves status quo policies like drone strikes.
Cinema Seduces Through American Vulnerability
- A House of Dynamite centers American vulnerability to dramatize nuclear risk while leaning into cinematic patriotism.
- El Jones notes the film seduces viewers with military spectacle even as it frames America as an innocent target.
