Cannonball with Wesley Morris

Sasha Weiss, an editor at The New York Times Magazine and a film critic, joins to dive into a unique take on the year's best performances. They discuss standout moments, like Brad Pitt’s expressive helmet acting and the genuine friendship between Keke Palmer and SZA. Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons receive accolades for fearless roles, while A$AP Rocky’s charm earns praise. The conversation explores Julia Roberts’ risky turn, Jessie Buckley’s emotional depth, and Timothée Chalamet’s wild bravado, celebrating bold and daring performances.

In this conversation, Alex Pappademas, a senior culture editor at GQ, joins to unpack the emotional weight of final albums, particularly D'Angelo's haunting "Black Messiah." They delve into the complexities of defining last albums, discussing intentional records made in the shadow of mortality versus those that became final by chance. Warren Zevon's "The Wind" and Aaliyah's posthumous works are explored, highlighting the poignant intersection of art and loss. Ultimately, they reflect on how these albums resonate and mark an artist's legacy.

Eddie Murphy, the legendary actor and comedian, shares insights from a career that revolutionized American pop culture. He reflects on his youthful ignorance of fame and his surreal dinner with Marlon Brando. Murphy discusses navigating the challenges of fame as a Black artist, his creative ambitions like the long-awaited project 'Soul Soul Soul', and his return to the iconic role of Axel Foley. He also touches on the influences that shaped his performance style and finds humor in celebrity pitfalls. Ultimately, he cherishes the joy of making people laugh.

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.