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
8 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Apr 18, 2024 • 46min
“Civil War” ’s Unsettling Images
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.
Apr 11, 2024 • 45min
“Curb Your Enthusiasm” and the Art of the Finale
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?
