Alissa Wilkinson

Alissa Wilkinson, a film critic for The New York Times, teams up with Nicole Sperling, a culture reporter based in Los Angeles, to reflect on the cinematic highlights of 2025. They delve into notable films like 'Sinners' and 'One Battle After Another,' exploring themes of activism and cultural impact. The conversation also examines industry trends, including Warner Brothers' successes and the implications of consolidation in Hollywood. Don't miss their critics’ picks and insights into the future of cinema!

Brooks Barnes, Chief Hollywood correspondent for The New York Times, and Alissa Wilkinson, film critic for the same publication, delve into the pressing implications of AI in the entertainment industry. They discuss how AI is currently influencing filmmaking, from digital de-aging to generating immersive scenes on a budget. The conversation touches on labor risks for actors and VFX workers and raises concerns about the authenticity of AI-generated content in documentaries. Their insights reveal a complex future where technology and creativity collide.

Join James Poniewozik, chief television critic for The New York Times, and Alissa Wilkinson, movie critic and documentary expert, as they dive into the booming world of streaming documentaries. They discuss Ken Burns's contribution to the genre, recount personal memories of PBS documentaries, and explore the rise of true crime. From the poignant storytelling in 'The Last Dance' to recommendations like 'Pee-wee as Himself' and the introspective 'Camera Person,' this conversation highlights the evolution and variety of documentary filmmaking today.

Alissa Wilkinson, a New York Times film critic renowned for her keen insights, discusses her journey into film critique and reveals her top movie picks for 2024. The conversation spans the cultural impact of cinematic storytelling and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in blockbuster filmmaking. They explore faith themes in horror films, examining how they illuminate belief and doubt. Plus, Alissa shares cherished Christmas movie memories, blending nostalgia with a heartfelt reflection on what makes these films resonate.

Alissa Wilkinson, a film critic at The New York Times and author of 'We Tell Ourselves Stories', dives deep into the narrative prowess of Joan Didion. She uncovers how Didion viewed stories as survival mechanisms in chaotic times. The conversation touches on the interplay of Hollywood and politics, the resurgence of nostalgia, and the role of storytelling in addressing trauma. Wilkinson intriguingly questions if Scripture is merely another constructed narrative, highlighting the complexities of cultural memory amidst contemporary conspiracy theories.