Justin Chang

Tim Curry, the legendary actor famed for his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, reflects on the 50-year legacy of 'Rocky Horror', celebrating its themes of identity and acceptance. John Feinstein shares his insights on sports journalism, focusing on trust and integrity amid scandals. Justin Chang reviews 'The Alto Knights', discussing its quirky narrative and the compelling performances by Robert De Niro as rival mob bosses. Together, they explore the impact of cultural icons and the intricate dynamics of media and storytelling.

Mo Amer, a Texan-Palestinian comedian known for his Netflix series 'Mo', shares his journey from a refugee to a stand-up performer. He highlights the intersection of his Palestinian roots and Texas culture, especially how country music shaped his identity. Amer also discusses the humor in navigating immigration challenges and the significant moments that fuel his comedic inspiration. Film critic Justin Chang gives a review of 'Black Bag', exploring themes of loyalty and betrayal in a gripping thriller.

David Johansen, co-founder of The New York Dolls and later known as lounge singer Buster Poindexter, reflects on the band’s flashy influence on punk rock. He shares personal anecdotes about the song 'Personality Crisis' and the complexities of artistic identity. Film critic Justin Chang reviews Bong Joon-ho's 'Mickey 17,' discussing its existential themes and the challenges faced by its protagonist. Together, they explore how performance and gender expression shaped both music and film, highlighting Johansen's enduring legacy.

Scott Eyman, author of "Charlie Chaplin vs. America," dives into the tumultuous life of Charlie Chaplin, exploring press scandals, his alleged communist ties, and the FBI's scrutiny that led to his exile. Eyman reveals how Chaplin's film "The Great Dictator" confronted political challenges and how he navigated personal and legal battles. Film critic Justin Chang shares insights on the buzz around upcoming blockbusters "Wicked" and "Gladiator II," highlighting their connections to cinematic legacies.

Charan Ranganath, a neurologist and director of the Dynamic Memory Lab, explores the intricacies of memory and the science behind forgetfulness. He discusses phenomena like the 'tip of the tongue' and how social media impacts our recall. Justin Chang, a film critic for The New Yorker, sheds light on 'The Life of Chuck,' connecting themes of memory and loss. The episode also pays tribute to the late Alf Clausen, highlighting his groundbreaking contributions to the music of The Simpsons and his unique approach to parody and emotional storytelling.

Colson Whitehead, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist known for tackling themes of race and injustice, discusses the painful history behind his novel, 'The Nickel Boys,' which dives into the horrific realities of the Dozier reform school in Florida. He highlights the haunting legacy of abuse and the discovery of unmarked graves. Jazz critic Martin Johnson celebrates the artistry of McCoy Tyner and Joe Henderson, while film critic Justin Chang reviews Mike Leigh's 'Hard Truths,' exploring complex family dynamics and themes of loneliness.

Join Tom Fontana, executive producer and writer known for his Emmy-winning work, along with Andre Braugher, the acclaimed actor who portrayed Detective Frank Pembleton, and Justin Chang, film critic for The New Yorker. They dive into the legacy of 'Homicide: Life on the Street' as it makes its streaming debut, discussing its innovative storytelling and character depth. Fontana shares behind-the-scenes insights about character dynamics, while Braugher reflects on the emotional intensity of his role. Chang also critiques the latest entry in the Alien franchise, blending nostalgia with critical analysis.

The New Yorker's film critic Justin Chang shares his excitement for upcoming films in 2024, including 'Janet Planet' by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Annie Baker, 'Blitz' by Steve McQueen, and 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga' by George Miller. He discusses the unique storytelling and cinematic styles of these highly anticipated movies.

In a thought-provoking conversation, film critic Justin Chang from The New Yorker shares his picks for holiday movie viewing that lean towards the serious side. He dives into gripping tales like 'Nickel Boys,' adapted from Colson Whitehead’s novel, and highlights the haunting 'The Brutalist' featuring Adrien Brody, along with Mike Leigh's impactful 'Hard Truths.' Chang challenges the notion that holiday films must be light, quoting Roger Ebert to reinforce that meaningful storytelling surpasses superficial joy.

Andrew Marantz, a Staff writer for The New Yorker, discusses the growing influence of uncommitted voters in Michigan, particularly the pro-Palestinian youth whose dissatisfaction with Kamala Harris reflects broader frustrations with U.S. foreign policy. Film critic Justin Chang reviews two films that explore identity and transformation, one through dark humor and the other through horror, revealing the complexities of self-improvement. Their insights shed light on the changing dynamics in both politics and contemporary cinema.