Cannonball with Wesley Morris

Nikole Hannah-Jones, a renowned journalist and creator of The 1619 Project, engages in a profound conversation about the legacy of slavery and its place in America's narrative. She delves into the journey of the project, revealing how it sparked both support and backlash. Nikole discusses the significant cultural shifts following George Floyd's death and the ongoing government efforts to censor discussions about race. Her insights underscore the fragile nature of progress in racial discourse and the importance of dissent for future generations.

This week, the conversation takes a refreshing turn towards skincare. The hosts dive into Clinique's straightforward three-step routine of cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. They emphasize that achieving great skin can be simple and stress-free. Plus, listeners get a sneak peek of what's coming next week!

Niela Orr, a culture critic, joins to dissect what truly makes a music video unforgettable. They discuss the evolution of music videos from MTV to YouTube, highlighting the cultural shifts and enduring significance of the VMAs. Orr and the host share insights on effective storytelling, the impact of feminist themes in visuals, and the nostalgia versus innovation in iconic music videos. They also critique this year’s nominees, evaluating who deserves to take home the coveted moon men.

Sam Anderson, a writer for the New York Times Magazine and a longtime friend of Wesley Morris, joins for a nostalgic dive into the summer movie landscape of 1990. They reminisce about iconic films like 'Total Recall,' 'Ghost,' and 'Die Hard,' exploring how these classics shaped their youth. The discussion weaves through themes of identity, the cultural impact of memorable scenes, and the ethical dilemmas presented in action films. Their reflections reveal both a deep love for the genre and a bittersweet acknowledgment of today's cinematic landscape.

Vinson Cunningham, a critic from The New Yorker and co-host of Critics at Large, joins the discussion on Spike Lee's latest film, 'Highest to Lowest.' They dive into its cultural relevance and Lee’s evolving messages to young Black men. The conversation highlights the film's vibrant aesthetic and deeper themes of wealth and personal responsibility. Cunningham shares a humorous musical misadventure with his father, while also exploring the emotional complexities within Black artistry and mentorship in hip-hop, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining dialogue.

Taffy Brodesser-Akner, an insightful author known for her engaging profiles and essays, joins Wesley to discuss the emotional finale of the 'Sex and the City' reboot. They explore themes of nostalgia, middle-aged friendships, and the complexities of character development, especially focusing on Carrie’s obsession with Big. The conversation also touches on the show’s attempts at inclusivity and how evolving narratives shape personal identities. With humor and depth, they reflect on the series' significance in shaping cultural conversations around love and friendship.

Salamishah Tillet, a Times contributing critic and Beyoncé scholar who teaches a class dedicated to the artist, joins the conversation to explore the cultural significance of Beyoncé's performances. They discuss the communal joy found at concerts, where fans express their identities through fashion and music. The duo also examines the intertwining of motherhood and politics in Beyoncé's work, reflecting on her ability to inspire resilience amidst societal challenges, all while honoring her artistic evolution and impact on American identity.

Writer Rembert Browne joins to explore the intriguing connections between Ryan Coogler's vampire film "Sinners" and the ongoing Drake-Kendrick beef. They delve into the vampiric threats facing Black art and the cultural significance of music in storytelling. The conversation includes themes of representation, authenticity, and the need for original narratives in an industry dominated by reboots. Browne and his host reflect on the complexities of cultural appropriation and the importance of preserving Black creativity in both music and film.

Join Wesley Morris and Eric Hynes, a film curator with a rich background in cinematic programming, as they dive into the nostalgia of their days at Kim's Video. They passionately dissect the Times's 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century, reflecting on the evolving impact of films like 'Parasite' and the critical importance of diverse storytelling. Their lively debate includes a look at Spielberg’s legacy and the emotional depth of 'A.I. Artificial Intelligence,' all while sharing personal favorites and insights from their shared cinematic journey.

Wesley Morris talks with Samin Nosrat, a chef and food writer, about her love-hate relationship with “The Bear,” a show that’s always racing against the clock. She says the best moments, in the show and in our own kitchens, happen when things slow down.Thoughts? Email us at cannonball@nytimes.comWatch our show on YouTube: youtube.com/@CannonballPodcastFor transcripts and more, visit: nytimes.com/cannonball Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.