The Bunker

Helen O’Hara, film journalist and Empire magazine's editor-at-large, discusses the future of James Bond now under Amazon's control. She questions whether Amazon will revive or dilute the franchise with cheesy spins, similar to Disney's handling of Star Wars. The conversation dives into the delicate balance of modernizing Bond's long-standing themes of masculinity and imperialism while ensuring the character remains relevant in today's world. O’Hara also reflects on how the evolution of villains mirrors contemporary global issues.

Stella Tsantekidou, a journalist and author, shares her experiences at Jordan Peterson's far-right festival, a bizarre mix of climate skeptics and conspiracy theorists. She dives into the conference's strange appeal, examining its impact on British politics. The conversation highlights the clash of ideologies, the merging of ethno-nationalism and religion, and how financial backing from figures like Peter Thiel shapes these movements. Tsantekidou's insights reveal unsettling trends in contemporary conservatism and the narratives constructed around Western civilization.

Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist known for his sharp political analysis, joins Jacob Jarvis to tackle the complexities of Keir Starmer’s visit to America. They discuss the nuances of navigating discussions with Trump, particularly regarding Ukraine. The conversation highlights how personal dynamics can shift international diplomacy, and they analyze Macron’s emerging role in Europe amidst geopolitical tensions. They also touch on Labour's strategic challenges in the upcoming by-election as the political landscape continues to evolve.

Neil Kinnock, former leader of the Labour Party and key figure in its historic 1997 victory, joins the discussion. He shares insights about today’s Labour leadership, drawing parallels to his confrontations with Thatcher. Kinnock highlights the necessity of effective narrative in politics and warns against the dangers posed by a radicalized Conservative Party. He also discusses strategies to counter rising populism and offers hope for Labour’s future, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the electorate and maintaining public trust.

In this discussion, Annette Dittert, the Senior Correspondent for ARD German TV in London, dives into the complexities of Germany's far-right AfD party. She examines the party's concerning ties to neo-Nazi groups and its nationalist rhetoric. Dittert unpacks the radical transformation of its leader, Alice Weidel, and how her personal life contrasts with the party's extremist shifts. The conversation also explores historical connections to Nazism and the evolving political landscape in Germany, especially among younger voters.

Michael Sheldrick, co-founder of Global Citizen and advocate against world poverty, discusses the significant implications of the U.S. aid freeze on global humanitarian efforts. He emphasizes how U.S. financial assistance accounted for over 40% of global aid, and the potential for increased propaganda in areas like Ukraine due to funding cuts. The conversation also touches on the need for a collaborative foreign aid approach, suggesting innovative solutions like blockchain technology to enhance support for developing nations.

Ian Garner, a historian specializing in Russian propaganda and author of 'Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth,' joins Chris to explore the complicated dynamics between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. They dissect Trump’s apparent confidence in dealing with Putin and whether he's truly in control or just being manipulated. The discussion also highlights the historical negotiation patterns of Putin and the implications for Ukraine, along with the geopolitical nuances that NATO must address in this high-stakes game.

The conversation delves into the troubling relations between Trump and Putin, highlighting the implications for Ukraine and NATO. Political turbulence in both the U.S. and Germany is dissected, showcasing the rise of alternative parties and the risks to democracy. The hosts also critique immigration policies and the impact of figures like Elon Musk on governance. Finally, they switch gears to discuss recent BAFTA highlights, focusing on standout films and their narratives amidst the complexities of modern dating.

Michael Kruse, a senior staff writer at POLITICO, dives into the compelling story of Susie Wiles, a key advisor to Donald Trump. They discuss her extraordinary influence in the White House and her strategic brilliance during Trump’s re-election campaign. Wiles' ability to manage relationships, particularly with figures like Elon Musk, showcases her unique role in today's Republican landscape. The conversation highlights the balance she maintains between ambition and loyalty, cementing her status as a powerful force in politics.

Adrian Tchaikovsky, an acclaimed science fiction and fantasy author known for books like Children of Time, joins the conversation. He argues that politicians should engage more with science fiction to understand the societal implications of technology. The discussion critiques the motivations behind space exploration and warns against unexamined enthusiasm for AI in politics. Tchaikovsky also shares recommended reads for leaders, emphasizing how science fiction can illuminate the complexities of modern challenges and encourage empathetic solutions.