The New Yorker Radio Hour

Richard Brody, The New Yorker’s film critic known for his annual Brody Awards, joins Alexandra Schwartz, co-host of Critics at Large. They dive into the latest cinematic trends, critiquing films like 'The Brutalist' and discussing why 'Wicked' could nab Best Picture. Brody emphasizes the desire for comfort food in cinema, while predicting the 2025 Brody Awards winners. Their analysis of performance nuances and generative AI’s role in acting sparks engaging debate around the evolving landscape of film.

John Fetterman, the progressive U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania known for his distinctive style, candidly discusses the shortcomings of the Democratic Party, particularly in engaging male voters. He reflects on his unexpected bipartisan efforts, including a notable meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Fetterman criticizes the chaos in contemporary politics and compares the pursuit of political funding to 'hustling for money.' He also tackles significant issues like trans rights and the need for clarity amidst political turmoil, highlighting the urgency for better engagement with voters.

Join Roz Chast, a beloved cartoonist known for her humorous observations of everyday life, and writer Jia Tolentino as they celebrate a century of The New Yorker. Tolentino revisits Joan Didion’s essay on Martha Stewart, exploring themes of female power, perfectionism, and societal expectations. Chast highlights George Booth’s unique cartoons, capturing the delightful chaos of daily routines. Together, they reflect on how these works continue to resonate in contemporary culture, blending nostalgia with insightful commentary.

Anthony Romero, the Executive Director of the ACLU since 2001, discusses the organization's relentless legal battles against the Trump administration. He highlights the staggering 434 lawsuits filed during Trump's first term, addressing critical issues like birthright citizenship and gender-affirming healthcare. Romero warns of a potential constitutional crisis if the administration defies judicial orders, emphasizing the importance of civil liberties and activism. His insights shed light on the historical struggle over executive power and the ongoing fight to uphold the rule of law.

Basel Adra, a Palestinian filmmaker, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli filmmaker, join to discuss their Oscar-nominated documentary "No Other Land," which highlights the demolition of Palestinian homes. They reveal how the film was created as an act of activism aimed at raising political awareness. Abraham points to a systemic denial of building permits for Palestinians, while Adra reflects on the deteriorating political landscape since filming began. Together, they emphasize the urgency of addressing these humanitarian crises and inspiring societal change.

Jelani Cobb, a distinguished staff writer at The New Yorker and dean of Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, dives into the political framing of diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) under the Trump administration. He discusses how D.E.I. became a scapegoat for societal problems and the impact of recent Supreme Court rulings on affirmative action. Cobb also draws parallels to historical periods of fear, comparing anti-D.E.I. sentiment to the McCarthy era, while addressing the media's role in this contentious landscape.

Kevin Young, the poetry editor at The New Yorker and director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, shares his insights on the magazine’s evolution as a literary beacon. He reflects on the thrill of curating a century of poetry and fiction, emphasizing the transformative power of rejection in a writer's journey. Young also discusses the crucial role of poetry during crises, highlighting poignant works like Adam Zagievsky's in the wake of 9/11, and celebrates the fresh voices that continue to shape The New Yorker's narrative landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and renowned philanthropist, shares insights from his memoir, "Source Code." He reflects on his childhood rebellion and the foundations of Microsoft, revealing how therapy influenced his independence. Gates tackles the detrimental impact of conspiracy theories on public trust in vaccines and criticizes the current socio-political landscape. He also discusses the complexities of integrating philanthropy with political ties after his significant dinner with Donald Trump, while emphasizing the importance of addressing economic inequality.

Dana Goodyear, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for her in-depth reporting on California's landscape and politics, shares her harrowing experience with the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. She recounts the emotional struggle of returning to her home in Pacific Palisades, now reduced to charred remnants. Goodyear reflects on the haunting loss, the resilience of communities in the face of disaster, and the profound impact of personal memories that survive amidst the ashes. Her insights highlight the intersection of personal grief and investigative storytelling.

Susan Morrison, editor at New Yorker and author of "Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live," dives into the legacy of Lorne Michaels and the revolutionary impact of SNL on television comedy. She discusses how Michaels innovatively refreshed the cast to resonate with younger audiences. Tina Fey, a notable SNL alumna, shares a reading from a 1975 review, capturing the show's initial audacity. Together, they explore SNL's blend of spontaneity, satire, and the cultural significance that has defined its fifty-year journey.