Critics at Large | The New Yorker

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.

Glen Powell discusses his role as a philosophy professor posing as a hitman in 'Hit Man.' Critics explore the allure of hitman archetypes in Hollywood, analyzing their fantasy appeal and contrasting it with the reality of contract killings. They delve into the portrayal of hitmen in cinema, examining moral complexities and themes of vengeance through characters like John Wick.

Critics at Large writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz dive into the trending 'slowness culture,' discussing the benefits and drawbacks of slowing down in a fast-paced world. They explore reclaiming time, work-life balance, and societal implications, questioning the accessibility and impact of leisure in a collective context.

Exploring the evolution of midlife crisis through fiction and radical perspectives on beauty and sexuality. Reflecting on themes of aging and personal reinvention, comparing classic literature with contemporary stories. Navigating societal expectations and economic challenges facing millennials. An intriguing mix of personal anecdotes and intense narratives leaves listeners captivated.

Critics examine the rap feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, discussing how it evolved from a battle of craft to personal attacks. They explore the impact of rivalries on creativity and audience interest. The podcast delves into historical feuds over authenticity and belonging, questioning if there is a return from spiraling conflicts.