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
13 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 47min
Does “Hamlet” Need a Backstory?
The discussion dives into the enduring allure of Shakespeare's "Hamlet," with reflections on its various adaptations over centuries. The hosts explore the new film "Hamnet," and whether it adds depth to the original narrative or oversimplifies it. They also unpack Michael Almereyda's modern take that reimagines Hamlet as a troubled film student. Insights on Tom Stoppard's "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead" inject humor into the tragedy. Finally, they ponder how Hamlet's existential questions resonate with today's anxieties around masculinity and purpose.
14 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 37min
After “Wicked,” What Do We Want from the Musical?
The discussion dives into the evolution of musicals, highlighting the shift from original stories to jukebox hits. The hosts dissect the massive commercial success of "Wicked," exploring its emotional resonance and memorable songs. They examine the chemistry between characters Glinda and Elphaba, considering deeper meanings. Comparisons to classic Disney musicals reveal themes of identity and desire. Finally, they imagine the perfect musical, weighing the merits of maximalism against realism, and ponder the future of Broadway with provocative, R-rated works.
17 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 50min
In “Pluribus,” Utopia Isn’t All It’s Cracked Up to Be
The discussion dives into Vince Gilligan's new series, where a benevolent alien hive mind offers a seemingly perfect world but clashes with human individuality. The hosts explore classic utopian literature and real-life attempts at such societies, addressing the inherent pitfalls of enforced sameness and repression. They debate the tension between optimism and pessimism, questioning who defines a utopia and how friction and pluralism are essential for vibrant communities. A fascinating exploration of idealism versus the messy reality of human nature ensues.
46 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 45min
The Guilty Pleasure of the Heist
A brazen jewel heist at the Louvre has captured public fascination. The hosts explore the delight of heist stories, from playful hypotheticals to iconic films like "Ocean's Eleven." They discuss how the internet has turned the heist into a viral sensation, showcasing memes and online creativity. Delving into Kelly Reichardt's "The Mastermind," they debate its critical reception and ponder why audiences root for heisters. The conversation ties heists to societal critiques, exploring our ambivalence toward institutions and the allure of rogue brilliance.
Nov 6, 2025 • 36min
Critics at Large Live: Padma Lakshmi’s Expansive Taste
In a lively conversation, Padma Lakshmi, Emmy-nominated producer and culinary expert, shares her journey from modeling to hosting Top Chef. She dives into what defines good taste and how her grandmother's influence shaped her palate. Padma reflects on her first impressions of New York and how travel expanded her culinary horizons. She differentiates between discerning taste and pickiness while discussing the philosophy behind her critiques on TV. Plus, she gives advice on cultivating taste and highlights her new venture into stand-up comedy.
29 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 52min
Why Horror Still Haunts Us
In this engaging discussion, Alex Barasch, culture editor at The New Yorker, dives into the haunting world of modern horror films. He explores how contemporary horror reflects deep-seated anxieties, using examples like "The Babadook" and "Saint Maud" to highlight themes of trauma, mental health, and parental fears. The conversation also touches on horror's evolution, budget dynamics, and its unique ability to turn societal issues into chilling narratives. Barasch argues that today’s horror captivates by delving into our internal struggles, making it as psychologically unsettling as it is entertaining.
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.
39 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.
