Life and Art from FT Weekend

Robert Armstrong, a financial commentator and men’s fashion columnist, and Eric Platt, a corporate finance writer and fashion expert, dive into the playful transformation of men's fashion. They discuss the rise of skimpy attire like crop tops and short shorts, reflecting a shift in masculinity and societal norms. The conversation touches on body positivity, the influence of queer culture, and changing beauty standards under social media scrutiny. Emphasizing light-hearted expression, they explore how modern choices reflect joy amidst serious times.

Danny Leigh, FT's insightful film critic known for his compelling interviews, joins India Ross, the deputy news editor with a knack for cultural commentary, to discuss the film 'Anora.' They explore its unconventional love story between a Brooklyn sex worker and a Russian oligarch's son, examining its comedic and melancholic tones. The conversation dives into themes of power dynamics, societal critiques, and the respectful portrayal of marginalized communities, while highlighting the film's critical acclaim and its potential Oscar buzz.

Jancis Robinson, a world-renowned wine expert and author of the Oxford Companion to Wine, shares her insights on starting a wine collection. She discusses the journey from casual drinking to serious collecting, highlighting the importance of proper storage and the benefits of a wine fridge. Jancis explores the nuances of orange wine and offers tips for creating a budget wine cellar with selections from Bordeaux. She emphasizes balancing enjoyment with investment potential and provides valuable resources for both novices and seasoned collectors.

Ludo Hunter-Tilney, FT's pop critic known for his insightful music reviews, and Arwa Haider, a talented music and culture writer, share their expert advice on discovering new music. They discuss the struggle against algorithm-driven uniformity and emphasize personal curation and human connections. The duo showcases emerging artists, sparks conversations between generations, and highlights sustainable initiatives in the music industry. Expect fresh recommendations and tips to enhance your listening journey!

Ariella Budick, a US art critic for the Financial Times with a Ph.D. in photography history, discusses the evolution of photography amid claims of its demise. She examines how smartphones and AI have transformed the medium yet emphasizes its resilience and adaptability. Budick highlights the shift from traditional documentary styles to new methods of storytelling and the ongoing challenges of authenticity in the digital age. Additionally, she reflects on the unique emotional depth that human photographers bring, contrasting it with the limitations of AI.

Robert Shrimsley, Executive Editor and FT columnist, teams up with Harriet Fitch Little, FT Weekend Magazine's food and drink editor from the Cotswolds, to dive into the indulgent world of 'Rivals.' They tackle the show's depiction of 1980s class dynamics, sex, and the often chaotic relationships among posh country-dwellers. The duo debates the strengths of the adaptation, the cultural significance of Jilly Cooper’s writing, and shares personal anecdotes about media consumption and community-driven clothing swaps.

Simon Schama, a leading public intellectual and professor of history and art history at Columbia University, dives into the alarming rise of misinformation in American politics. He discusses how outrageous falsehoods have gained traction among voters and the implications for democracy. Schama emphasizes the necessity of truth in political discourse, urging listeners to confront disinformation and stay engaged. He also reflects on the evolution of cultural references and how diverse voices can enrich understanding, despite the challenges posed by sensationalism.

Stephen Bush, FT’s political columnist and a self-proclaimed film buff, teams up with Topher Forhecz, executive producer and horror movie aficionado, for a spirited Halloween chat. They dive into Tim Burton’s iconic 'Beetlejuice,' discussing its lasting impact and how nostalgia colors our view of it. The duo reflects on the decline of creative risks in modern horror, shines a light on cult classics, and shares personal Halloween favorites like 'The Nightmare Before Christmas.' Join them as they explore the charm of lighthearted horror and the evolution of Halloween cinema!

Victoria Blamey, executive chef of the innovative Blanca restaurant in Brooklyn, shares her bold culinary vision. She challenges the notion that tasting menus are stale and invites diners to experience adventurous flavors. Victoria discusses her unique spin on dishes, like spinach served in a donut bowl, and emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries in fine dining. With roots in South America, she highlights how cultural influences shape her creative approach, aiming to wake up diners with every course.

Alice Ross, a financial journalist at the Financial Times and author of "Investing to Save The Planet," joins Henry Mance, chief features writer, to dissect the latest season of HBO's finance drama 'Industry.' They explore controversial topics like greenwashing and the show's pointed critique of corporate morality. The conversation touches on character complexity, moral decay, and how these narratives reflect our feelings about money today. Additionally, they discuss the evolution of financial storytelling and the audience's connection to flawed characters.