Critics at Large is a weekly culture podcast from The New Yorker. Every Thursday, the staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss current obsessions, classic texts they’re revisiting with fresh eyes, and trends that are emerging across books, television, film, and more. The show runs the gamut of the arts and pop culture, with lively, surprising conversations about everything from Salman Rushdie to “The Real Housewives.” Through rigorous analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into The New Yorker’s reporting, the magazine’s critics help listeners make sense of our moment—and how we got here.
In this episode of "Critics at Large," Naomi Fry, Vinson Cunningham, and Alex Schwartz delve into Patricia Highsmith's novel "The Talented Mr. Ripley" and its enduring cultural impact, discussing various adaptations, including the 1999 film, "Purple Noon," "Saltburn," and the new Netflix series, "Ripley." They analyze ...
This podcast episode explores the increasing popularity of science fiction (sci-fi) in the media landscape and its relevance to real-world developments. It discusses the reasons behind the surge in popularity, including the growing sense that the real world is becoming similar to science fiction due to advancements in ...
This podcast explores the diverse landscape of workplace depictions in art, ranging from films like "Working Girl" to the novel "Help Wanted" by Adelle Waldman. The podcast traces the evolution of the workplace novel, from its post-war origins to its contemporary iterations, highlighting its capacity to explore themes ...
This podcast explores the multifaceted nature of legacy in the music industry, delving into the impact of musical biopics, the challenges of capturing the essence of artists in film, and the tension between innovation and nostalgia. Using examples from Bob Marley and Usher, the hosts discuss the power of music to conve...
This podcast episode delves into the captivating allure of wretched love stories that explore the agonizing complexities of human relationships. Despite our cultural emphasis on happy endings, these stories resonate deeply, providing a cathartic experience as we witness love's destructive and passionate nature. From li...
This podcast episode explores the evolving role of comedy in society, examining the impact of cultural divisions, societal pressures, and the changing landscape of stand-up. It highlights the challenges comedians face in navigating delicate topics, the power of comedy to both challenge and reinforce societal norms, and...
In this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Alex Schwartz, and Naomi Fry delve into the state of criticism as an art form and a profession. They discuss the perceived decline in arts journalism, the rise of critical populism, and the weaponization of criticism in online spaces. The hosts explore what define...
This podcast episode explores the concept of "slowness culture," a trend advocating for a more deliberate and relaxed approach to life, in contrast to the fast-paced nature of modern society. The hosts discuss the origins and significance of the slowness movement, from its roots in rejecting hustle culture to its impac...
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