Cannonball with Wesley Morris

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.

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.