Critics at Large | The New Yorker
The New Yorker
Critics at Large is a weekly culture podcast from The New Yorker. Every Thursday, the staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss current obsessions, classic texts they’re revisiting with fresh eyes, and trends that are emerging across books, television, film, and more. The show runs the gamut of the arts and pop culture, with lively, surprising conversations about everything from Salman Rushdie to “The Real Housewives.” Through rigorous analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into The New Yorker’s reporting, the magazine’s critics help listeners make sense of our moment—and how we got here.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 28, 2025 • 46min
In the Dark: Blood Relatives, Episode 1
A family massacre at an isolated manor in 1985 leads to a shocking investigation. Heidi Blake delves into the complicated Bamber family dynamics and the mental health struggles of Sheila. As initial evidence points to Sheila as the perpetrator, the narrative shifts towards Jeremy, revealing his dark past and the tensions within the household. The podcast uncovers new insights and reexamines the case, questioning the conclusions drawn by the police and the media. A gripping tale entwined with family secrets and tragic events.
26 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 51min
Art in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The rise of generative A.I. has sparked fascinating discussions about its impact on art and culture. The hosts delve into Timbaland's A.I. rapper, TaTa Taktumi, and critique the implications of synthetic artists. They explore how A.I. could replace human creativity, referencing notable films like '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'Ex Machina.' Tilly Norwood, an A.I. actress, raises questions about authenticity and emotional connection in art. Ultimately, the conversation grapples with A.I.'s cultural implications and its potential to reshape creative industries.
10 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 48min
I Need a Critic: October, 2025, Edition
Morgan Spector, an actor renowned for his role as Mr. Russell on HBO's The Gilded Age, calls in to discuss poetry, seeking clarity on how to determine if his writing qualifies as verse. The critics explore the essence of poetry, emphasizing that originality and musicality are key to great works. Listeners share their personal quests, from binge-watching during recovery to rebuilding friendships in middle age. The hosts express admiration for the creative hunger showcased in questions, reflecting on the power of culture to connect and inspire.
25 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 41min
How the Trad Wife Took Over
The rise of the "trad wife" phenomenon is explored through influencers like Nara Smith, known for her quirky homemade videos, and Hannah Neeleman, who curates a picturesque rural family life. The hosts dissect how these accounts blend lifestyle choices with ideological prescriptions, questioning the authenticity of their domestic narratives. They draw parallels with the Hulu series about Mormon influencers, highlighting the tension between online personas and real-life scandals. Ultimately, the discussion delves into the broader implications of these choices amid economic and societal changes.
52 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 49min
One Paul Thomas Anderson Film After Another
Dive into the world of Paul Thomas Anderson as his latest film tackles the complexities of present-day America. The hosts explore the film's energetic visuals and its mix of thrilling action with deep family drama. They debate the film's political themes, assessing its connections to contemporary activism and the influence of past revolutionary ideals. Insightful critiques of Anderson's celebrated works like 'Boogie Nights' and 'There Will Be Blood' highlight his unique storytelling, while questions arise about how cinema reflects today's turbulent realities.
28 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 48min
What's Cooking?
Helen Rosner, a food writer and New Yorker staff writer, dives into the evolving landscape of home cooking and cookbooks. She discusses Samin Nosrat's new book, 'Good Things,' highlighting its blend of narrative and practical cooking advice. Rosner explores the impact of culinary influencers, the intimacy of food knowledge, and pandemic cooking fatigue. She also reflects on modern cookbook authors, the dinner party as a cultural milestone for millennials, and how cooking shapes personal identity and intellectual life.
5 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 51min
“The Paper,” “The Lowdown,” and the Drama of Journalism
Journalism faces unprecedented challenges, with over a third of American newspapers vanished. The hosts explore two new shows, a workplace comedy and a crime noir, highlighting the contrast with classics that once instilled trust in the media. They dive into the evolving portrayal of reporters, reflecting on how these narratives signify our changing perceptions of truth. The discussion uncovers the struggles of journalists in an era of declining public faith, showcasing their resilience amidst economic struggles and the quest for responsible reporting.
42 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 45min
Why We're All In on Gambling
The podcast dives into the rapid rise of platforms like Polymarket and DraftKings, reshaping our relationship with gambling. It explores gambling's allure, detailing both the thrill and the potential consequences, such as addiction and financial loss. Cultural narratives—from literature to film—frame our understanding of chance and risk. The discussion also highlights the emotional rollercoaster that comes with betting, as well as the shift in how sports are perceived amid a growing gambling culture. It's a fascinating look at the double-edged sword of modern gambling.
66 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 46min
Our Fads, Ourselves
The hosts explore the quirky rise of the Labubu toy, dissecting its strange allure and cultural significance. They discuss the nostalgia tied to childhood fads, comparing past crazes like Beanie Babies with today’s TikTok trends. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of consumerism, highlighting the tension between the desire for individuality and the pressure of societal uniformity. With humor and candid anecdotes, they examine how fads reflect larger societal behaviors while questioning our modern values in a rapidly changing market.
36 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 44min
How to Watch a Movie
Richard Brody, a seasoned film critic at The New Yorker, dives deep into the evolution of auteur theory from its French origins to its modern significance. He explores how directors like Spike Lee have shaped their unique voices amidst Hollywood's creative constraints. The conversation highlights the tension between artistic vision and commercial pressures, punctuated by Lee's upcoming film 'Highest to Lowest.' Brody emphasizes that in great films, style and substance are inseparable, inviting listeners to rethink their viewing experience.
