Critics at Large | The New Yorker

Charli XCX, a pop sensation whose album electrified a presidential campaign, teams up with the rising star Chappell Roan. They discuss the harsh realities of the pop music world, where success can be fleeting and fans dictate trends. Insights into Charli’s mainstream flirtation and Chappell's meteoric rise highlight the genre's cutthroat nature. The duo also reflects on the cultural impact of songs like ‘Espresso’ and the challenges faced by artists like Katy Perry. Their conversation navigates the evolving landscape of pop culture and the unique connections artists have with their fans.

Dive into the fascinating world of Tom Ripley, the quintessential antihero who steals more than just identities. The hosts explore the seductive nature of aspiration and class envy evident in Patricia Highsmith's work and its adaptations. They reflect on how social media mirrors Ripley's obsession with the glamorous lives of others. With a mix of humor and analysis, they dissect the psychology behind Ripley’s character and discuss the evolving perceptions of antiheroes in contemporary culture.

Kamala Harris, a prominent political figure recently launching her presidential campaign, draws intriguing comparisons with Charli XCX, a British pop artist celebrated for her album 'BRAT'. They explore how memes and pop culture intertwine with political narratives, showcasing a surprising wave of optimism amidst a backdrop of global crises. Armando Iannucci's satirical insights on politics provide a humorous lens. The conversation navigates the balance between hope and despair in today's world, reflecting on how younger generations embrace humor to tackle complex emotions.

Vanity Fair's 'Dynasty' podcast guests discuss Harry and Meghan's Hollywood journey, financial deals, media scrutiny, challenges post-royal life, charitable work, and strained relationships with the Royal Family. They explore the couple's transition to celebrity status in California and speculate on their sustainability in the limelight.

Critics at Large dives into the revelation of Alice Munro's daughter's sexual abuse by her stepfather and Munro's decision to stay with him. The discussion explores the impact on Munro's legacy, the delicate balance of separating art from artists, and the nuances of dealing with controversial figures in light of the #MeToo movement.

Renowned nature documentary presenter David Attenborough traces the evolution of nature documentaries from 'Zoo Quest' to 'Mammals.' The genre now addresses climate change while showcasing successful conservation efforts. The podcast reflects on the impact of nature documentaries in inspiring environmental awareness and conservation efforts.

Pulitzer Prize-winning TV critic Emily Nussbaum chats about the history and craft of reality TV with a focus on 'Candid Camera,' 'An American Family,' and 'Cops.' She aims to make you understand, not necessarily like, reality TV.

Cultural critics Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz explore summer obsessions on this episode. They discuss formative influences like Brandy's album 'Never Say Never' and Jim Morrison's music. Topics range from 'Heathers' to Elena Ferrante's novels, reflecting on how past obsessions shape our identities.

Orna Gur, star of 'Couples Therapy,' discusses the impact of therapy on culture and relationships. The podcast explores evolving perceptions of therapy, complexities in relationship dynamics, manipulation tactics in therapeutic contexts, and the role of therapy in popular culture. The hosts reevaluate therapy's effectiveness and its evolution in American mental health care, while also discussing psychoanalytic theories in literature and entertainment.

Exploring the conflicting feelings and ethics of modern travel, the allure of being foreign, and the impact of social media on travel culture. Discussing the historical significance of travel narratives, the rise of last-chance travel, and the emotional aspects of self-discovery through exploration.