Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

Edgar Wright, acclaimed director of films like Shaun of the Dead and Baby Driver, discusses his new adaptation of Stephen King’s The Running Man. He dives into his creative influences, including the impact of Sam Raimi. Wright shares the unlikely origins of Scott Pilgrim while recalling childhood moviegoing experiences. He reflects on his collaboration with Simon Pegg and the evolution of his filmmaking style. The conversation also touches on the future of cinema and the importance of preserving the magic of the theater experience.

Salman Rushdie, acclaimed novelist known for Midnight's Children, shares insights from his new book, The Eleventh Hour, and his memoir, Knife. He reflects on his childhood in Bombay and the impact of family trauma on his writing. Rushdie discusses the toll of the 1989 fatwa and its effect on public perception, alongside the ongoing threats to free speech. Humor plays a crucial role in his recovery from the 2022 attack, and he emphasizes the lasting power of literature in the face of censorship.

Richard Linklater, the acclaimed director behind films like Dazed and Confused and the Before trilogy, shares insights into his creative journey and influences. He reveals the transformative impact of a health scare that shifted his focus from athletics to filmmaking. Linklater discusses the unique identities in his latest film, Hit Man, explores the thin line between artists and criminals, and reflects on capturing authenticity in film. He also dives into the challenges of modern cinema, the role of AI in creativity, and the importance of personal storytelling.

Will Welch, the Global Editorial Director of GQ, dives into the magazine's upcoming special issue focused on American masculinity. He shares insights from a survey exploring modern men's views on privilege and loneliness in a digital age dominated by surveillance. Welch reflects on the cultural fascination with Gen Z and the impact of music like OutKast on his upbringing. He discusses his journey through recovery, spirituality influenced by Ram Dass, and the evolving role of magazines in today’s fast-paced world.

Gabriela Hearst, an acclaimed designer and founder of her namesake fashion house, is passionate about sustainability in fashion. She shares insights from her rich upbringing on a Uruguayan ranch, detailing how gaucho traditions inspire her artistic philosophy. Hearst candidly discusses her journey from acting to fashion, overcoming personal challenges through creativity. She emphasizes the importance of high-quality materials over fast fashion, advocating for ‘honest luxury’ as a way to protect the planet while crafting garments that empower women.

Rose Byrne, acclaimed actor known for her versatile roles, discusses her gripping performance in the film If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You, where she portrays a mother unraveling under stress. She shares insights on her early career, including her role in the cult classic Two Hands with Heath Ledger, and the challenges of navigating Hollywood's sexism. Byrne reflects on her comedic breakthrough in Bridesmaids and explores her artistic influences, including David Lynch and Arthur Miller. Her journey from Australia to Hollywood showcases determination and growth.

Benny Safdie, acclaimed director and writer known for 'Good Time' and 'Uncut Gems,' shares insights about his new film 'The Smashing Machine,' portraying MMA icon Mark Kerr. He delves into the film's themes of vulnerability and empathy, reflecting on personal parallels with addiction and recovery. Benny discusses his creative process, the impact of collaborators like Nathan Fielder, and the importance of street casting. He also shares memorable experiences working with Dwayne Johnson and his evolution from directing to acting in major films like 'Oppenheimer.'

Ta-Nehisi Coates, an award-winning writer and a prominent voice on race, history, and reparations, shares insights from his latest book, The Message. He reflects on how his seminal piece, The Case for Reparations, shaped his recent essays. Coates discusses the challenges of reporting abroad, particularly in Palestine, and advocates for greater representation of Palestinian voices in media. He also explores his formative experiences in West Baltimore and critiques the mainstream media's focus on complexity over morality while emphasizing the power of literature in shaping societal understanding.

Arundhati Roy, an acclaimed novelist and political essayist, candidly discusses her new memoir, Mother Mary Comes to Me, exploring the complex legacy of her mother, a feminist trailblazer. She reflects on the crucial lessons learned from her tumultuous childhood, including the burdens of expectation and the power of silence. Roy connects her personal narrative to her political activism, addressing the cultural fabric that informs her writing and the urgent need to listen to the powerless in today's world. Her insights are both poignant and galvanizing.

Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary director behind classics like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, shares insights into his passion for filmmaking and the ambitions of his latest project, Megalopolis. He reflects on the creative struggles faced during production, including industry resistance and artistic conflicts. Coppola delves into his childhood dreams, the importance of persistence, and how he views American cinema's future. With a nod to his late wife Eleanor, he emphasizes the necessity of risk in art and keeps dreaming despite challenges.