Critics at Large | The New Yorker

Julio Torres, the comedic genius known for his surreal humor and work on "Los Espookys," shares his unique perspective on creativity and immigration. He discusses the struggle of navigating bureaucratic systems through the lens of absurdity in his film "Problemista" and HBO series "Fantasmas." The lively conversation highlights the balance of imagination and reality, revealing how surreal comedy can shed light on grim circumstances. Torres also reflects on his cultural influences, showcasing how personal narratives intertwine with humor.

The podcast dives into the evolving nature of advice-giving, from classic columns to today's social media influencers. Hosts tackle cultural dilemmas, reflecting on literature's emotional depth, exploring relationships, and the complexities of modern adulthood. They examine the challenges of motherhood intertwined with artistic expression and assess the impact of moral ethics in diverse lifestyles. Historical insights, like MLK's perspectives, add depth to the discussion, while listener interactions enrich their analysis of navigating contemporary advice.

A new film explores Donald Trump's early life under the influence of Roy Cohn, raising questions about villainy in storytelling. The hosts dissect the appeal of humanizing figures like Trump, examining familial influences and media portrayals. They delve into the moral implications of empathizing with such characters, contrasting modern antiheroes with classical narratives. This conversation sheds light on how origin stories shape our understanding of controversial figures and their legacies in contemporary politics.

Dive into the darkly comedic world of body horror, where aging and perfection collide. A new narrative uncovers the societal obsession with youth through the lens of films like 'The Substance.' The haunting consequences of body modification and the haunting visuals of transformation raise questions about identity. Amidst the grotesque, discussions also challenge beauty standards driven by social media. As hosts dissect the horrors of societal pressure, they ponder how we can find peace in our ever-changing exteriors.

The discussion dives into the glamorous yet gritty world of finance, exploring its evolving portrayal in media from 'Wall Street' to HBO's 'Industry.' The hosts dissect the juxtaposition of ambition and moral ambiguity in the lives of young finance professionals. They also highlight the emotional toll and the dark consequences of corporate culture on personal relationships. The conversation critiques the seductive allure of financial stories, even in a post-crisis era, while comparing today’s characters to iconic figures from classic literature and film.

Sally Rooney's latest novel, 'Intermezzo,' dives deep into the complex relationships between brothers and the heavy themes of grief. The hosts play a lively game of Rooneyverse bingo, exploring recurring motifs in her work. They analyze the philosophical layers of her stories, such as mastery and personal identity, while reflecting on her status as a millennial voice. The discussion underscores Rooney's ability to both captivate and challenge readers, showcasing her knack for making the profound relatable and binge-worthy.

The writer Carl Sandburg, in his 1926 biography of Abraham Lincoln, made a provocative claim—that the President’s relationship with the Kentucky state representative Joshua Speed held “streaks of lavender.” The insinuation fuelled a debate that has continued ever since: Was Lincoln gay? On this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss a new documentary that tries to settle the question. “Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln” is part of a growing body of work that looks at the past through the lens of identity—a process that can reveal hidden truths or involve a deliberate departure from the facts. The hosts consider other distinctly modern takes on U.S. history, including the farcical Broadway sensation “Oh, Mary!,” which depicts Mary Todd Lincoln as a failed cabaret star and her husband as a neurotic closet case, and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s smash hit “Hamilton,” which reimagines the Founding Fathers as people of color. In the end, the way we locate ourselves in the past is inextricable from the culture wars of today. “It is a political necessity for every generation to be, like, No, this is what the past was like,” Cunningham says. “It points to a struggle that we’re having right now to redefine, What is America?” Read, watch, and listen with the critics:“Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln” (2024)“Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years & The War Years,” by Carl SandburgCole Escola’s “Oh, Mary!”Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton”“The Celluloid Closet” (1995)“Hidden Figures” (2016)“I’m Coming Out,” by Diana RossNew 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 delves into the rising phenomenon of the 'trad wife' trend, showcasing influencers like Nara Smith and Hannah Neeleman, who embrace traditional domesticity while captivating millions online. It critiques the tensions between modern femininity and these age-old roles, considering choices women make in light of societal pressures and economic realities. The hosts also explore the Hulu series featuring Mormon wives, raising questions about empowerment and authenticity in an era where personal choices may not be as free as they seem.

The conversation dives into the mainstream acceptance of tarot and astrology, once considered 'woo-woo' but now part of our daily lives. Insights reveal how technology like astrology apps reflects our search for security in uncertain times. Personal anecdotes highlight the emotional connection to tarot during life transitions, such as loss and new beginnings. The discussion also explores the role of spirituality in relationships and how these mystical practices provide community support amidst societal pressures. A tarot reading adds a personal touch to the dialogue.

Nick Paumgarten, a staff writer at The New Yorker, joins to dive into the tantalizing mythology surrounding Las Vegas. They explore how the city meticulously crafted its identity as an entertainment mecca and its portrayal in culture, from Hunter S. Thompson's infamous work to modern-day residencies. The discussion touches on the paradox of escapism versus reality, the challenges artists face in such a commercialized space, and the city’s evolving role as a hub of artistic innovation. Tune in for a compelling reflection on the complexities of this iconic destination.