Critics at Large | The New Yorker

The New Yorker
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Jul 4, 2024 • 16min

From The New Yorker Radio Hour: Emily Nussbaum on the Beginnings of Reality TV

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.
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18 snips
Jun 27, 2024 • 48min

Summer Obsessions

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.
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7 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 45min

The Therapy Episode

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.
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20 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 48min

Is Travel Broken?

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.
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Jun 6, 2024 • 47min

The Many Faces of the Hit Man

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.
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4 snips
May 30, 2024 • 47min

The Rising Tide of Slowness

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.
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8 snips
May 23, 2024 • 45min

The New Midlife Crisis

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.
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May 16, 2024 • 46min

Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and the Benefits of Beef

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.
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7 snips
May 9, 2024 • 51min

Our Collective Obsession with True Crime

Guests dive into the true crime phenomenon, exploring its societal impact and ethical considerations. They discuss the emotional challenges faced by journalists, emphasizing the importance of respecting victims' families. The allure of true crime lies in unraveling mysteries while treading carefully in portraying real-life stories sensitively.
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May 2, 2024 • 46min

Why the Sports Movie Always Wins

Critics discuss the formula of sports movies, exploring themes of masculinity in recent films like 'Challengers' and 'The Iron Claw'. They highlight iconic sports movies, including 'He Got Game' and 'Cool Runnings', arguing that the genre offers auteurs a chance to showcase their personal visions visually and sensually.

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