Critics at Large | The New Yorker

Listeners call in with cultural dilemmas, and the hosts dive into a treasure trove of recommendations for everything from literature to film. They explore the significance of art in addressing life's big questions, discuss modern fatherhood in media, and engage in a lively debate about food-related content while eating. The existential struggles of youth are tackled alongside the nuances of acting, ethics, and the emotional connections forged through performance. Plus, they share their ideal music for writing inspiration!

The podcast dives into how Ryan Coogler's film "Sinners" uses vampires to explore deep societal issues like race and identity. The discussion traces vampire lore from classic texts to modern portrayals, including how figures like Edward Cullen reshaped these monsters into relatable characters. Cultural themes like oppression and resistance are woven through the narrative, showcasing the rich tapestry of music and community. Finally, it examines the existential questions about youth and mortality that resonate within contemporary vampire narratives.

The discussion centers on the film 'Warfare,' co-directed by a veteran and a filmmaker, exploring its personal narratives and emotional realism. The hosts analyze iconic war films like 'Apocalypse Now' and 'Full Metal Jacket,' highlighting evolving themes of sacrifice and trauma. They also delve into cultural dilemmas and the ethical implications of depicting war, contrasting traditional heroics with modern interpretations. The complexity of war movies as both pro and anti-war is examined, alongside the portrayal of PTSD and the artistry found in various military narratives.

The podcast humorously explores the clash between art and commerce in Hollywood, featuring Seth Rogen as a hapless studio head in 'The Studio.' Discussions dive into the evolving power dynamics between filmmakers and studios, revealing the struggles of maintaining artistic integrity amidst corporate pressures. There’s a nostalgic look at the golden age of cinema while acknowledging the current industry's challenges, including a decline in production and the impact of the pandemic. Despite these issues, there's a glimmer of hope for a creative resurgence in filmmaking.

Gossip emerges as a captivating and complex topic, revealing its dual nature as both a source of connection and harm. The conversation highlights gossip's historical roots, from biblical tales to its portrayal in modern media, illustrating how perceptions have evolved. With new technologies amplifying the speed of gossip, the ethics surrounding it are increasingly scrutinized, especially in the Me Too context. The discussion sheds light on how celebrities navigate their public personas amid rumors—making privacy a compelling concern in today’s society.

Hasan Piker, a hugely popular Twitch streamer known for his cutting-edge leftist commentary, joins a lively discussion that spans various cultural touchpoints. They explore Joe Rogan's significant impact on modern podcasting and how both he and Piker attract loyal young male audiences. The conversation dives into the complexities of the 'manosphere', humorously addressing energy drinks and their absurd marketing. Authenticity in podcasting comes under scrutiny, especially regarding how media shapes political views and encourages genuine connections.

The podcast dives into the art of criticism, showcasing bold historical reviews like Russell Maloney's fiery take on 'The Wizard of Oz.' The hosts engage in lively discussions about the evolution of opinions over time, from literary critiques to classic film assessments. They humorously explore the challenges and joys of writing negative reviews, revealing the emotional undercurrents of dissenting opinions. This celebration of critical thought underscores the vital role of context and personal experience in the appreciation of art.

In a world overwhelmed by choices, the hosts humorously navigate daily decision-making dilemmas. They explore how the abundance of options can lead to anxiety rather than satisfaction, questioning if more choices actually enhance our lives. Historical perspectives highlight the evolution of freedom tied to consumerism, while modern technology complicates our decision-making process. The discussion reveals that too many choices may contribute to alienation, urging a return to spontaneity and community connections.

“The Pitt,” which recently began streaming on Max, spans a single shift in the life of a doctor at an underfunded Pittsburgh hospital where, in the course of fifteen gruelling hours, he and his team struggle to keep up with a seemingly endless stream of patients. The show has been praised by lay-viewers and health-care professionals alike for its human drama and its true-to-life portrayal of structural issues that are rarely seen onscreen. On this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz parse how “The Pitt” fits alongside beloved medical shows like “E.R.” and “Grey’s Anatomy.” While the new series upholds many of the tropes of the genre, it’s set apart by its emphasis on accuracy and on the daily struggles—and rewards—of laboring toward a collective goal. At the heart of “The Pitt” is a question that, in 2025, is top of mind for many of us: does the for-profit medical system actually allow for humane care? “Faith in these institutions has eroded,” Schwartz says. “At the low point of such faith and trust, what happens to build it back?”Read, watch, and listen with the critics:“The Pitt” (2025-)“E.R.” (1994-2009)“Grey’s Anatomy” (2005-)“This Is Going to Hurt” (2022)“House” (2004-12)“The Bear” (2022–)Doctor Mike’s YouTube channelSteveoie’s YouTube channelNew episodes drop every Thursday. Follow Critics at Large wherever you get your podcasts. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The podcast dives into the intriguing theme of identity as portrayed in 'Severance,' where characters grapple with their split selves, dubbed 'innies' and 'outies.' It traces the historical roots of the double from classics like 'Jane Eyre' to modern cinema, revealing how the concept persists in our fractured lives. In a world of curated online identities, the discussion highlights how avatars can amplify feelings of alienation. With wit and depth, the hosts explore psychological implications and cultural reflections surrounding our search for wholeness.