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 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.
19 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 44min
The Value—and Limits—of Seeking Comfort in Art
Art provides much-needed comfort during distressing times, serving as an escape from political turmoil. The conversation explores how genres like 'romantasy' and 'cozy thrillers' have gained popularity as soothing options. While seeking solace in entertainment can offer sustenance, there’s a fine line between comfort and complacency. The speakers emphasize the importance of balancing enjoyment with critical engagement, advocating for art's role in fostering empathy and societal awareness.
7 snips
Oct 31, 2024 • 44min
Critics at Large Live: Julio Torres’s Dreamy Surrealism
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.
Oct 24, 2024 • 54min
Help, I Need a Critic!
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.
6 snips
Oct 10, 2024 • 50min
A Controversial Trump Bio-pic and the Villains We Make
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.
12 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 49min
“The Substance” and the New Horror of the Modified Body
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.
9 snips
Sep 26, 2024 • 49min
The Fate of the Finance Bro
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.
11 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 47min
Sally Rooney’s Beautiful Deceptions
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.
