Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud

Richie Assaly, a Toronto-based freelance culture writer, and Maura Johnston, a Boston-based music journalist, discuss the cultural significance of the Spinal Tap reunion and its satirical commentary on the music industry. They critique the long-awaited sequel, debating its failure to recapture the original's charm. Shifting gears, they explore Ed Sheeran's new multi-genre album 'Play' and its quest for global appeal. They also dive into Justin Bieber's lo-fi release and Lizzo's thoughts on navigating music discovery in the age of algorithms.

The hosts explore standout performances from a film festival, highlighting Rose Byrne's emotional portrayal in 'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You' and Dwayne Johnson's mixed reception in 'The Smashing Machine.' They delve into the heartfelt themes of motherhood and trauma in international films like 'It Was Just an Accident' and 'No Other Choice.' Plus, they reminisce about their festival experiences and share insights from their interview with Sarah McLachlan regarding the influential Lilith Fair.

Delve into Canada's cinematic landscape at TIFF, where nostalgia meets innovation. Discover how 'Blue Heron' captivates audiences with its emotional portrayal of an immigrant family's struggles. The conversation highlights the increasing visibility of Indigenous narratives and reflects on the impactful storytelling in Canadian films. Don't miss the exploration of 'Modern Horror,' a unique blend of humor and heartfelt narratives that challenges common tropes in sex work. Tune in for diverse picks that showcase the vibrant voices of Canadian cinema!

Lauren Smiley, an investigative journalist known for her captivating work, discusses a chilling cyberbullying case where a mother tormented her own daughter. She reveals the ethical dilemmas around documenting minors' trauma in films like 'Unknown Number.' Culture critic Pablo The Don shares insights into the unique appeal of DC's 'Peacemaker,' exploring its blend of humor and dark themes. Their conversation reflects on the impact of technology, familial relationships, and the transformation of wrestlers into Hollywood icons.

Film critic Barry Hertz from the Globe and Mail and CBC's Jackson Weaver dive into the rich legacy of the Toronto International Film Festival as it celebrates 50 years. They discuss TIFF's unique impact on cinema and its role in elevating unexpected films, while also examining its significance for Canadian filmmakers. The pair reflect on TIFF's origins, challenges during the pandemic, and the enduring popularity of 'The Princess Bride.' They also navigate the future, addressing the need for accessibility and the balance between industry insiders and everyday moviegoers.

Radheyan Simonpillai and Teri Hart dive into the intense atmosphere surrounding the premiere of a controversial film. They discuss a charged Q&A session that ignited heated debates about ethical reporting and audience reactions. The conversation then shifts to a critical examination of the film's portrayal of sensitive topics, particularly regarding the events of October 7th. As they debate the influence of external pressures on film selection, they also highlight a gripping survival story from the documentary that recounts a harrowing rescue during a brutal attack.

Carl Wilson, a music critic for Slate, discusses Joni Mitchell's new jazz compilation, highlighting her evolution from folk to jazz and the significance of her artistic choices. He emphasizes the impact of her collaboration with jazz legends. Meanwhile, Morgan Campbell covers the story of Roy Jones Jr., who finally received the gold medal he was denied in the controversial 1988 Olympics. They delve into the boxing community's reaction and the themes of fairness and redemption sparked by this profound moment.

Teri Hart, a film critic and entertainment reporter, shares her insights on this year's Toronto International Film Festival. She raves about her favorite film, 'Tuner,' calling it a captivating heist story with emotional depth. Teri also dives into Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein,' praising its stunning visuals and Oscar Isaac's performance, while noting the film's extensive runtime might lose some viewers. The trio candidly discusses the quirky nature of festival Q&As, highlighting the balance between genuine audience interaction and rehearsed promotional feedback.

Mosha Lundstrom Halbert, a fashion and culture journalist known for her vibrant NewsFash TikTok account, dives into the allure of New York Fashion Week, spotlighting the monumental influence of Giorgio Armani and Chloe Malle's new role at Vogue. She discusses the merging of tradition and innovation, highlighting how Armani's legacy shapes today’s fashion scene. The conversation also tackles the challenges of privilege and nepotism in the industry, emphasizing the need for diverse voices at legacy magazines. It's a compelling look at an evolving fashion landscape.

The buzz surrounding the Toronto International Film Festival is electric, with standout films like 'Frankenstein' sparking lively discussions. There's a spirited debate over Baz Luhrmann's bold portrayal of Elvis Presley, revealing the complexities of his legacy. Sydney Sweeney's powerful performance as a boxer dealing with domestic violence has Oscar whispers swirling, highlighting her promising future. Amidst the critiques, hosts also share personal updates, adding a relatable touch to the vibrant festival atmosphere.