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
15 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 50min
How Romantasy Seduces Its Readers
Katy Waldman, a staff writer at The New Yorker and an expert on the romantasy genre, discusses the genre's explosive popularity post-pandemic. She highlights how works like Sarah J. Maas's series have captivated readers, especially on platforms like BookTok. Waldman reveals that romantasy taps into deep-seated desires for empowerment and intimacy, offering readers a comforting escape filled with wish fulfillment. The discussion also explores the evolving themes and tropes that resonate with younger audiences, shedding light on the intersection of fantasy and romance.
12 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 47min
David Lynch’s Unsolvable Puzzles
Dive into the mesmerizing world of David Lynch, where the mundane collides with the macabre. Explore his iconic films like 'Blue Velvet' and 'Mulholland Drive,' filled with surreal imagery and emotional depth. Discover the complex puzzles that his art presents, blurring the lines between reality and dreams. The conversation highlights the lingering influence of Lynch on contemporary culture and invites listeners to engage with his elusive narratives, celebrating the freedom of personal interpretation.
19 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 44min
The Splendor of Nature, Now Streaming
Discover the enduring legacy of David Attenborough as the discussion traces his journey from "Zoo Quest" to modern works like "Mammals." The conversation delves into the enchanting allure of nature documentaries that create emotional bonds with wildlife. Explore how these films have evolved to address urgent environmental issues while still captivating audiences. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight humanity’s relationship with nature, and reflect on the dual role of these visuals as sources of escapism and calls to action for conservation.
22 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 46min
The New Western Gold Rush
Discover the intricate world of modern Westerns as the conversation traces the genre's evolution. Explore iconic films and hit series like 'Yellowstone' that blend historical bravado with contemporary issues. Delve into themes of violence, land rights, and family dynamics that resonate through modern narratives. The discussion also critiques gender representation and political undertones in these tales of survival. Ultimately, the podcast uncovers why audiences across the spectrum are drawn to these rugged, complex stories.
5 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 46min
The Elusive Promise of the First Person
Delve into the intriguing world of first-person narration, a technique that draws us into the thoughts and feelings of others. Discover how films like 'Nickel Boys' and classics such as 'Lady in the Lake' use this perspective to create emotional depth. The discussion also explores the rise of personal narratives in modern media, raising questions about authenticity and connection. From literature to cinema, the complexities of identity and empathy are examined, revealing the challenges and beauty of seeing through another's eyes.
10 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 45min
Hayao Miyazaki’s Magical Realms
Explore the enchanting realms created by Hayao Miyazaki, where childhood meets bittersweet reality. His films reveal deep themes of loss, transformation, and the complexities of growing up amidst the backdrop of history and war. Delve into 'The Boy and the Heron,' a tale of grief and resilience, highlighting the interplay of beauty and darkness. Discover the influence of Miyazaki on animated storytelling and how childhood autonomy is mirrored in his masterpieces. Join a discussion that celebrates creativity, responsibility, and the philosophical questions of life.
Dec 19, 2024 • 46min
Critics at Large Live: The Year of the Flop
The hosts dive into a whirlwind of high-profile failures, from Coppola's costly flop "Megalopolis" to Kamala Harris's political missteps. They explore the fickle nature of celebrity fame and how social media affects success perceptions. Discussions about artistic flops reveal how failures can spark cultural dialogues and fan reactions while also highlighting the emotional turmoil artists face. The conversation embraces the idea that failure may lead to creativity and growth, turning disappointments into transformative opportunities.
13 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 48min
After “Wicked,” What Do We Want from the Musical?
Explore the evolving landscape of the American musical as the hosts dissect the cultural reverberations of 'Wicked' and its impact on audiences in 2024. They delve into the challenges of originality amidst a sea of jukebox musicals, while examining emotional complexity in musical narratives. The discussion also touches on the intricate relationships within 'Wicked,' alongside critiques of recent adaptations like 'Joker: Folie à Deux.' Reflecting on the historical evolution of musicals, they consider how heightened emotions and storytelling intertwine in this artistic form.
10 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 43min
The Modern-Day Fight for Ancient Rome
Explore the enduring legacy of ancient Rome in modern cinema through the lens of Ridley Scott's 'Gladiator II.' The conversation highlights how iconic films encapsulate themes of power, decadence, and authority. Discover the nuanced critiques of character development in Roman portrayals and the societal implications tied to these narratives. The lively discussion also addresses the manipulation of Rome's legacy by contemporary ideologies, raising important questions about identity and historical interpretation in today's world.
25 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 48min
Will Kids Online, In Fact, Be All Right?
A documentary series sheds light on L.A. teens' digital lives post-pandemic, revealing how social media reshapes their identities. The discussion ties in historical moral panics around youth culture, from rock and roll to modern technology fears. Insights into rising mental health issues among teens due to screen time raise serious concerns. The hosts ponder how adult anxieties mirror those of the past while questioning the role of tech companies in this ongoing crisis. Amid these challenges, there's hope found in creative youth pursuits.
