Critics at Large | The New Yorker

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.

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.

Debating whether 'Civil War' glamorizes violence or criticizes desensitization, the hosts delve into the impact of imagery on social media. From historical aestheticization of war in photography to the overwhelming abundance of shocking content today, the discussion explores bearing witness in a digital age.

Critics discuss the 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' finale and its legacy. They debate TV show endings, from 'Sex and the City' to 'Game of Thrones'. Why do we scrutinize finales so closely? How do they affect a show's overall impact?

Staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss the enduring appeal of Tom Ripley, a character who embodies the yearning to be someone else. They explore the cultural fascination with extravagant lifestyles and the impact of social media on our desires. The podcast dives into the character's deception, adaptation nuances, misogyny in films, and Ripley's transgressive behavior. The discussion also delves into identity exploration through fashion and contrasts in character adaptations, offering a captivating insight into the allure of antiheroes.

Kate Middleton's rumored absence sparked online conspiracy theories ranging from secret affairs to plastic surgery, reflecting widespread paranoia in today's digital age. The hosts explore how communal fictions surrounding the Royal Family mirror historical patterns of conspiracy thinking and offer insights on navigating a reality blurred by online narratives.

The podcast explores the increasing relevance of science fiction in modern media, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. They delve into the appeal of recent works like 'Dune' and 'The Matrix', discussing how these narratives reflect and challenge our understanding of the future. The conversation extends to the intersection of sci-fi with real-world technology and societal issues, emphasizing the genre's role in imagining and navigating the uncertainties of tomorrow.

Authors discuss the evolution of coming-of-age stories in literature, reflecting on personal experiences amidst political and societal forces. They explore themes of power, disillusionment, and financial structures as antagonists in the bildungsroman genre. The podcast highlights the impact of historical moments on generational perspectives and the role of literature in shaping our understanding of personal growth.

Discussing the evolving narratives of office dramas in literature and media, exploring workplace dynamics, identity, and alienation. From classic novels to modern interpretations, the podcast analyzes the changing attitudes towards work and life. Featuring insights on the impact of remote work, organized labor, and the enduring fascination with office culture across generations.

Exploring the intense world of Oscar campaigning, from behind-the-scenes strategies to the impact of influential figures like Harvey Weinstein. Delving into the historical trivia of the Oscars and the complexities of chasing recognition in Hollywood. The hosts discuss the allure of glamour and the significance of award shows like the Oscars for driving the film industry towards quality.