Cannonball with Wesley Morris

Parul Sehgal, an insightful literary critic and essayist, joins the conversation to delve into the unsettling documentary The Perfect Neighbor. They grapple with the moral weight of viewing tragic events through police footage. Parul describes the emotional impact the film had on her, while exploring the framing of children as threats rather than victims. The discussion raises critical questions about the filmmakers' intentions versus viewer perceptions, as well as the ethics of showcasing trauma, race, and the complexities of storytelling in such sensitive narratives.

Cécile McLorin-Salvant, a Grammy-nominated jazz singer known for her innovative song interpretations, joins Wesley for a lively discussion on cover songs. They dive into what defines a great cover and how artists like Beyoncé reinterpret classics. Cécile shares her process for selecting songs, revealing her unique take on Wuthering Heights. They also explore the cultural significance of covers today and reflect on transformative mashups like Aretha Franklin's. The conversation blends humor with deep insights, making it a must-listen for music lovers.

Kelefa Sanneh, a cultural critic with extensive experience in music and popular culture, joins Wesley to explore the evolution of music criticism. They delve into the shift from harsh critiques to a more nurturing approach, questioning what's been lost. Kelefa discusses the impact of identity on critical perspectives, while also touching on the role of poptimism in embracing diverse musical styles. They reflect on how critics can foster public conversations and consider what future criticism might look like in this kinder age.

In this engaging discussion, writer Sam Anderson shares his unique experience of profiling Dwayne ‘the Rock’ Johnson for The New York Times Magazine. They explore the intersection of artifice and reality in Johnson’s performances, especially his role in The Smashing Machine. Anderson touches on Johnson's mix of shyness and charisma, his family's emotional impact on him, and the vulnerability showcased in wrestling. The duo delves into the authenticity of Johnson’s candidness and how his diverse roles reflect his multifaceted persona.

Wesley Morris chats with Eric Hynes, a film curator at the Jacob Burns Film Center, about the haunting power of dread in horror cinema. They explore iconic scenes that evoke a lingering sense of anxiety, from 'Rosemary's Baby' to 'Uncut Gems.' The duo discusses childhood traumas linked to films like 'Poltergeist' and the intricacies of tension in movies like 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.' They ponder whether modern films capture today's cultural dread and Eric reveals his top three dread-inducing films—definitely worth a watch!

Guest Caryn Ganz, the pop music editor at The New York Times, shares her insights on Lady Gaga's artistry and the transformative experience of the Mayhem tour. They discuss Gaga's evolution from early fame to her current persona, the gothic aesthetic of the tour, and how it recontextualizes her catalog. Caryn highlights powerful moments, like Gaga's giant red dress entrance and emotional piano performances. The conversation delves into themes of death, survival, and Gaga's deep connection with her fans, all while celebrating her unique blend of theatrics and reinvention.

Bill Simmons, founder of The Ringer, joins Wesley Morris to delve into the legacy of Robert Redford, exploring how he defined movie stardom. They discuss Redford's iconic roles in films like Butch Cassidy and The Natural, examining his blend of charm and heroism. The duo debates the current state of movie stars, pondering if anyone today can match Redford's impact. They also analyze rising talents like Michael B. Jordan and Timothée Chalamet, while reflecting on what Hollywood must do to revive star power.

Join film critic Sean Fennessey, The Ringer's head of content and a Paul Thomas Anderson aficionado, as he delves into Anderson's bold new action film, One Battle After Another. They explore the risky landscape of Hollywood that Anderson navigates, especially with big-budget projects. Fennessey highlights standout performances, particularly Tiana Taylor's commanding role. The duo debates the film's political layers, familial ties, and even its daring musical choices. Is this film Anderson's crowning achievement? Tune in to find out!

Wyatt Cenac, a comedian and former Daily Show correspondent, joins the discussion on South Park's bold approach to satirizing the Trump administration. They explore the show's unique ability to critique powerful figures, thanks to its daring humor and institutional backing. Wyatt highlights how long-term character development fosters empathy, and they debate the delicate balance of satire’s responsibility in today’s climate. Dive into the nuances of how South Park mirrors populist rhetoric while tackling cultural tensions with a mix of audacity and insight.

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.