Olivia Laing

Sydney Sweeney, an American actress celebrated for her roles, shares insights on portraying boxer Christy Martin in her upcoming biopic. She discusses her intense preparation, including physical transformations and emotional challenges in depicting sensitive themes. Joining her, film expert Adrian Wootton explores Pier Paolo Pasolini's radical film legacy, particularly Salo, while author Olivia Laing dives into its haunting context and impact. Together, they unravel the complexities of representation in film and the lasting significance of Pasolini's work.

Olivia Laing, an acclaimed writer known for her insightful reflections on art and society, discusses her latest novel, The Silver Book. She explores the intertwining of love and power within the context of Italian cinema, focusing on the provocative works of Federico Fellini and Pier Paolo Pasolini. Laing dissects the political significance of Pasolini's Salò and the impact of 1970s Italy on filmmaking. She reflects on how AI threatens traditional craft, the moral complexities of her characters, and how her writing process has enhanced her film appreciation.

Acclaimed writer Olivia Laing, known for her explorations of personal paradise, discusses her latest work, *The Garden Against Time*, which delves into the emotional and philosophical dimensions of gardening. Joined by historian Hannah Dawson, they explore gardens as dual symbols of beauty and power, addressing social inequalities tied to green spaces. The therapeutic benefits of gardening are highlighted, alongside reflections on environmental stewardship and the need for renewal in both personal and political contexts. Their conversation reveals gardens as sites of hope amidst societal challenges.