Kermode & Mayo’s Take David Oyelowo on Government Cheese + Mark’s verdict on The Studio
David Oyelowo, an accomplished actor known for his powerful roles in 'Selma' and 'Government Cheese,' joins the conversation. He reveals insights about playing Hampton Chambers in his new Apple TV+ series, blending humor with serious themes of family and redemption. They explore the unique storytelling of 'Government Cheese' set in the 1960s, discussing its cultural significance and the balance between comedy and drama. The hosts also dive into the biting satire of 'The Studio,' showcasing the absurdities of Hollywood filmmaking.
01:19:38
Dogman Delivers Anarchic Fun
- Dogman is an anarchic animated comedy about a cop who's part dog and part man.
- Mark Kermode was surprised by its humor and found it a bright spot in a tough week.
I'm Still Here's Powerful Duality
- The film I'm Still Here narrates domestic life alongside oppressive political horror in Brazil.
- Fernanda Torres delivers a magnificent, deeply human performance anchoring the story.
Santosh Explores Social Divides
- Santosh tells a tense police procedural about a widow stepping into her husband's job in a divided society.
- The film highlights caste divides and grassroots hostility with compelling drama.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app 1 chevron_right 2 chevron_right 3 chevron_right 4 chevron_right 5 chevron_right 6 chevron_right 7 chevron_right 8 chevron_right
Intro
00:00 • 2min
Cinematic Highlights and Creative Journeys
02:14 • 21min
Navigating Oppression: 'I'm Still Here'
22:53 • 9min
Lights, Camera, Family Dynamics
31:33 • 4min
Government Cheese: A Cultural Journey
35:57 • 16min
Inside 'The Studio': Satire of Hollywood
52:09 • 13min
Hollywood Dilemmas and Creative Absurdities
01:04:56 • 7min
Critique of Cinematic Disappointment
01:11:32 • 7min
The Exorcist
William Peter Blatty
The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty, tells the story of Regan MacNeil, a 12-year-old girl who becomes possessed by an evil spirit. Her mother, Chris MacNeil, a successful actress, seeks help from two priests: Father Damien Karras, a Jesuit priest and psychiatrist struggling with his faith, and Father Lankester Merrin, an elderly priest with experience in exorcisms. The novel explores themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between good and evil as the priests perform an exorcism to save Regan. The story is intense and graphic, delving into the psychological and supernatural aspects of the possession and the exorcism process. It was inspired by a real-life case of demonic possession in the 1940s and has become a classic in the horror genre[1][3][5].
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen
Published in 1813, 'Pride and Prejudice' is a novel that revolves around the lives of the Bennet family, particularly the second eldest daughter, Elizabeth. The story is set in the early 19th century and explores themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth. The novel centers on Elizabeth's tumultuous relationship with the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy, whose initial arrogance and reserve gradually give way to a deeper understanding and mutual respect. Through their interactions, both characters learn to overcome their prejudices and flaws, leading to a transformative journey of self-discovery and redemption. The novel also delves into the societal pressures on women to secure marriages, the importance of family, and the nuances of social hierarchy during the British Regency period[3][4][5].
The Fountainhead
Ayn Rand
Published in 1943, 'The Fountainhead' by Ayn Rand tells the story of Howard Roark, a young and innovative architect who refuses to compromise his artistic vision despite the opposition from society. The novel explores themes of individualism, egoism, and the conflict between those who think for themselves (the 'first-handers') and those who follow the opinions of others (the 'second-handers'). It also delves into the lives of other characters such as Dominique Francon, Peter Keating, Ellsworth Toohey, and Gail Wynand, each representing different aspects of Rand's philosophical ideas. The book is a defense of egoism and individualism, presenting a radical rethinking of basic moral concepts and challenging conventional notions of selfishness and altruism[2][3][5].
Jonestown
The Power and the Myth of Alan Jones
Chris Masters
This book by Chris Masters provides a detailed and probing portrait of Alan Jones, a powerful and influential Australian radio host. It delves into Jones's complex personality, his ability to wield and abuse power, and his paradoxical nature of being both admired and reviled. The biography covers his career, including his days as a teacher and coach, his involvement in scandals such as the 'cash for comment' affair, and his impact on politics and media. Masters also examines Jones's sexuality and how it has been concealed, which he argues is a defining feature of Jones's behavior. The book is a critical analysis of Jones's influence and the broader implications for Australian media and politics[1][2][3].
Mustang
wild spirit of the West
Marguerite Henry
Mustang: Wild Spirit of the West by Marguerite Henry tells the story of Annie Bronn Johnston, who fought tirelessly to protect the American wild mustangs from slaughter. The book chronicles her life, from her childhood in Reno to her activism, which culminated in a dramatic testimony before a Congressional committee. It highlights the contributions of mustangs to the settlement of the West and serves as a testament to grassroots activism.
The Bee Sting
Paul Murray
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
Ron Hansen
This novel by Ron Hansen delves into the life of Jesse James, a legendary outlaw, and his eventual assassination by Robert Ford. It explores themes of celebrity, notoriety, and the complexities of historical figures. The book is based on extensive research and weaves historical facts with fictional elements to create a compelling narrative.
The Players
Mark Steinmetz
Anne Tucker (Introduction)
Mark Steinmetz's "The Players" is a photographic monograph that explores the world of sports and athletic competition. The book captures the intensity, drama, and camaraderie of athletes in action. Steinmetz's intimate and observational style allows viewers to connect with the subjects on a personal level, witnessing their dedication, passion, and moments of both triumph and defeat. The photographs are characterized by their dynamic composition and ability to convey a sense of movement and energy. The book offers a compelling visual narrative of the human spirit in the context of athletic pursuit.
Government Cheese
null
Steven Pressfield
The Brutalist
Brady Corbet
Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey
The Captain Underpants series, written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey, follows the adventures of two fourth-grade pranksters, George Beard and Harold Hutchins, who live in Piqua, Ohio. The boys create a comic book character named Captain Underpants, who becomes real when they hypnotize their principal, Mr. Krupp. The series is known for its silly humor, outrageous plots, and the friendship and loyalty between George and Harold. The books have been translated into more than 25 languages and have sold over 80 million copies worldwide. The series includes 12 main books, two activity books, colored versions, and several spin-offs[1][2][4].
Captain America
Red, White & Blue
Mark Waid
Once upon a time in America
Once upon a time in America
Hollywood Scripts.
Once Upon a Time in America, directed by Sergio Leone, is a sprawling epic crime drama that follows a group of Jewish gangsters in New York City over several decades. The film is known for its sweeping scope, atmospheric visuals, and complex characters. It explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the passage of time. Once Upon a Time in America is considered a masterpiece of the gangster genre. Its epic scale and unforgettable characters have made it a cult classic. The film's exploration of the American Dream and the corrupting influence of power is both captivating and tragic.
Y2K
null
Colette Shade
Snow White
Brothers Grimm
Silo
Hugh Howey
The Silo series, comprising Wool, Shift, and Dust, is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity lives in underground silos. The series follows characters such as Holston and Juliette as they uncover the secrets and mysteries of their underground world. The books delve into the struggle between information and control, human curiosity, and the power dynamics within the silo society. The series reveals the origins of the silos, the true nature of the outside world, and the ultimate fate of the survivors as they strive to rebuild their world[2][3][5].
I'm still here
Austin Channing Brown
Austin Channing Brown's memoir, *I'm Still Here*, offers a powerful account of growing up Black, Christian, and female in a predominantly white America. The book delves into her journey of self-worth and critiques the pitfalls in attempts at racial justice, highlighting the role of white, middle-class Evangelicalism in rising racial hostility. Brown invites readers to confront apathy and explore how embracing blackness can lead to a more inclusive society.
Wild New World
Dan Flores
When Things Fall Apart
Heart Advice for Difficult Times
Pema Chödrön
In this book, Pema Chödrön offers life-changing tools for transforming suffering and negative patterns into habitual ease and boundless joy. Drawing from traditional Buddhist wisdom, she advises moving toward painful situations with friendliness and curiosity, rather than trying to escape them. The book emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty, impermanence, and groundlessness, and provides practical advice for dealing with difficult emotions like fear, anger, and sadness. Chödrön encourages readers to stay present with their feelings and to cultivate nonaggression and compassion, leading to deeper healing and understanding[1][3][5].
Central Station
Central Station
Joseph Cariffe
Flight Risk
Flight Risk
Duane L. Gentner
The studio
John Gregory Dunne
Sister Midnight
Jeremy Reed
Biafra
Biafra
C. Odumegwu Ojukwu
Vanguardistas have more fun—so if you don’t already subscribe to the podcast, join the Vanguard today via Apple Podcasts or extratakes.com for non-fruit-related devices. In return you’ll get a whole extra Take 2 alongside Take 1 every week, with bonus reviews, more viewing recommendations from the Good Doctors and whole bonus episodes just for you. And if you’re already a Vanguardista, we salute you.
It’s time for the Take team to take stock of our first quarter, so this week we’re looking back over the first three or so months and putting our affairs in order: deciding whether to tighten our belts or loosen the purse strings, cut some salaries or dish out a few tasty bonuses. We’re bringing you a Quintessential First Quarter Recap of all the best bits from the year so far—including interviews with Ashley Walters & Erin Doherty, Jesse Eisenberg & Kieran Culkin and Brady Corbet—and a chance to hear moments from Mark’s best reviews like the previously Vanguardista-only ‘Santosh’.
And there’s still plenty of brand new stuff for you in today’s take too. Our guest is David Oyelowo, who you’ll hear in conversation with Simon about his new Apple TV+ series ‘Government Cheese’. In this surreal 60s-set California comedy-drama, David plays Hampton Chambers, a father and former burglar trying to go straight after his release from prison and make his fortune in a crazy world.
By popular demand, Mark and Simon will also be reviewing The Studio—the Hollywood film industry satire starring Seth Rogen as a spineless executive trying to make serious cinema and serious money... and possibly failing to do either. Plus we’ll be ‘treating’ you to the Laughter Lift as usual (you thought you’d managed to avoid that this week didn’t
you? Oh no, the hilarity never stops.)
Timecodes (for Vanguardistas listening ad-free):
Quarter 1 highlights: 05:46
David Oyelowo Interview: 31:07
The Studio Review: 49:10
Laughter Lift: 01:04:33
You can contact the show by emailing correspondence@kermodeandmayo.com or you can find us on social media, @KermodeandMayo
Please take our survey and help shape the future of our show: https://www.kermodeandmayo.com/survey
EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/take Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!
A Sony Music Entertainment production.
Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts
To advertise on this show contact: podcastadsales@sonymusic.com
And to find out more about Sony’s new show Origins with Cush Jumbo, click here
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices