
Stuart Klawans
Film critic and author of Crooked, But Never Common: The Films of Preston Sturges (Columbia UP, 2023), interviewed about Sturges's life, films, and filmmaking style.
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Jan 10, 2026 • 52min
Stuart Klawans, "Crooked, But Never Common: The Films of Preston Sturges" (Columbia UP, 2023)
Film critic Stuart Klawans dives into the vibrant world of Preston Sturges, the genius behind classic comedies like The Lady Eve and Sullivan's Travels. He unpacks Sturges' unique blend of visual storytelling and sharp dialogue, revealing a deep cynicism masked by humor. Klawans discusses the insightful portrayal of humanity in Sturges' films, his groundbreaking work with Black characters, and the dynamic use of a stock company of actors. With an eye for themes of stasis and the pursuit of success, this conversation offers new perspectives on Sturges' timeless works.

Jan 10, 2026 • 52min
Stuart Klawans, "Crooked, But Never Common: The Films of Preston Sturges" (Columbia UP, 2023)
Join film critic Stuart Klawans as he dives into the comedic genius of Preston Sturges, the master behind classics like The Lady Eve and Sullivan's Travels. Klawans explores how Sturges's sharp dialogue and intricate structures continue to resonate today. He also unveils Sturges's bohemian roots, his transition from Broadway to Hollywood, and the impact of his recurring ensemble of character actors. Discover the deep themes of fear of conformity and the playful blend of slapstick with high style that define Sturges’s work.


