Culture Gabfest

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf and Julia Turner are joined by Slate book critic Laura Miller for a full episode. First, the panel takes on The Glorias, the new film based on Gloria Steinem’s life. Next, they are joined by New Yorker staff writer Lauren Collins to talk about the Netflix comedy-drama Emily in Paris. Finally, the panel discusses the narrative drama of Donald Trump’s having COVID-19.The Slate Plus segment this week features Laura’s book recommendations for fall. Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Pike Place Market by Rockin' For DecadesEndorsementsLaura: The Good Lord Bird, starring Ethan HawkeJulia: A recipe for State Fair LemonadeSteve: Rod Stewart’s cover of “Handbags and Gladrags” (as well as the many videos of rockstars’ impromptu performances)Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss the Netflix film My Octopus Teacher. Next, they chat about the legacy and ending of Keeping Up With the Kardashians (check out the Gabfest’s 2011 conversation about the Kardashians here). Finally, the panel is joined by Slate staff writer Aaron Mak to analyze the latest episode of Reply All on QAnon.On Slate Plus, the hosts discuss how they try to balance work and family.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Outro Music: The Red Light Special by Matt LargePodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are live from … Zoom! First, the panel talks about Cuties, the Netflix film that has stirred up controversey. Next, the panel discusses the Emmys—how successful (and necessary) was the virtual awards show? Finally, the panel takes on the future of fashion. Get your closets ready: Sweatpants will not be around forever.In Slate Plus, the hosts answer listeners’ questions about philosophy, comfort watches, and so much more. (Per a listener’s question, here is our previous episode on pumpkin spice.)Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Endorsements:Dana: The McMansion Hell blogJulia: Con Todo El Mundo by KhruangbinSteve: The television show Reno 911!Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Special thanks to Faith Smith and Britt Pullie for organizing the live show.Outro Music: Self Made Woman by Katharine Appleton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana reminds listeners about tonight's virtual live show! It's at 8pm ET on Slate's Facebook and YouTube pages. For links and more info, visit Slate.com/liveIf you can't make it, that's okay! The audio version of the live show will be dropped in your feed on Thursday evening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by Slate’s Aymann Ismail to discuss the Emmy-nominated series Ramy (check out Aymann’s story for Slate on Ramy Youssef here). Next, the panel talks with Glenn Whipp, an entertainment columnist for the LA Times, about the new inclusion requirements the Oscars recently announced. Finally, the panel dives in HBO Max’s movie Unpregnant. In Slate Plus, the hosts open up about the first thing they’ll want to do in a post-pandemic world and what things, to their surprise, they will not want to return to doing. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Endorsements:Dana: “Aquarium” from “Carnival of the Animals” by Camille Saint-Saëns (as heard in Days of Heaven)Julia: Rösle Stainless Steel Mincing Garlic PressSteve: Hilltown Hot Pies (“Feast your eyes!”)Phoebe Bridgers’ cover of “Teenage Dirtbag” by WheatusPodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Last Sunday by OTE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve is joined by guests hosts Laura Miller, a books and culture columnist for Slate, and Jamelle Bouie, a columnist for the New York Times and Slate’s former chief political correspondent. The panel takes on Lovecraft Country, HBO’s new horror series. Next, they talk about Charlie Kaufman’s enigmatic I’m Thinking of Ending Things. And finally, the panel dives into the “is NYC over?” debate.In Slate Plus, the hosts talk about a George Washington University professor’s recent confession that she falsely claimed a Black identity.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Endorsements:Laura: The Silver Arrow by Lev GrossmanJamelle: The Way Back, a sports film starring Ben AffleckSteve: “What Ails America” by Timothy Snyder in the New York Review of Books, adapted from his new book, Our Malady: Lessons in Liberty from a Hospital DiaryAnd finally, please check out Jamelle’s cereal reviews for Serious Eats.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Bloody Hunter by Paisley Pink Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia discuss Bill & Ted Face the Music, the decades-later sequel to the 1989 and 1991 originals. (This was also Dana’s first movie review for Slate after the pandemic’s monthslong disruption! Check it out here.) Next, the panel talks about Chadwick Boseman’s legacy with Wesley Morris, a critic-at-large for the New York Times who wrote about the late actor’s powerful approach to biographical moviemaking. Finally, they dive into Dana’s comfort pick—Days of Heaven.In Slate Plus, the hosts talk about moviegoing with Sam Adams, Slate’s very own writer who ventured into a newly opened theater to review Tenet.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Endorsements:Dana:Alex Winter’s Showbiz Kids, an HBO documentary about child stars.Julia:Plus One, starring Maya Erskine and Jack Quaid.https://www.amazon.com/Plus-One-Maya-Erskine/dp/B07RYT666RStephen:“American Fascism: It Has Happened Here,” by Sarah Churchwell in the New York Review of Books.“Ur-Fascism,” by Umberto Eco in the New York Review of Books in 1995.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro music: Spinning the Wheels by Dusty Decks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia discuss a recent video of twins’ listening to Phil Collins’s “In the Air Tonight” that went viral. Then, the panelists talk about John M. Barry’s The Great Influenza. Finally, they take on this week’s comfort watch—Network.In Slate Plus, the hosts break down The Daily’s recent two-part series on cancel culture.Endorsements:Dana: The accurate lime cordial recipe!Julia: Rodham by Curtis SittenfeldSteve: “Dickens in Brooklyn” by Jay Neugeboren in the New York Review of BooksPodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by Slate’s music critic Carl Wilson to take on Taylor Swift’s Folklore. Then, the panelists discusses school reopenings, riffing off of Dana’s recent op-ed for the Washington Post. Finally, they break down this week’s comfort watch—the 1936 screwball comedy, My Man Godfrey.In Slate Plus, the hosts are joined by Slate staff writer Lili Loofbourow to discuss her recent pieces on cancel culture and online debate.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Other items discussed in this show:“Taylor Swift’s New Album Reveals That Social Distancing Has Served Her Well” by Carl Wilson in Slate“Held back: As parents realize how badly the U.S. botched the next school year, we’re furious” by Dana Stevens in the Washington Post“The Cancel Culture Trap” by Lili Loofbourow in Slate“Illiberalism Isn’t to Blame for the Death of Good-Faith Debate” by Lili Loofbourow in SlateEndorsements:Dana: Dana’s original drink “This Lime-Tree Bower My Prison,” inspired by a Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem. To make the cordial, boil a 2:1 ratio of lime juice to water on stove until reduced to half. Sweeten to taste. Mix with bourbon or rye whiskey. Throw in basil or mint leaf as garnish.Julia: Strand by the Spinanes, especially “Winter on Ice.”Steve: “Publish and Perish” by Agnes Callard in the Point.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Back to Silence by OTE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by Hit Parade host Chris Molanphy to take on contenders for song of the summer, an unusual competition this year that has been heavily influenced by TikTok. Then, the team dives into 20 hours of listener-nominated songs to determine the “struttiest,” giving you new music to listen to as you strut around your house this summer or when venturing out on an exciting adventure to the grocery store.In Slate Plus, the hosts zip through a lightning round of their Summer Strut recommendations.Summer Strut 2020 Short List on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0P17fljddUDgdDHJx7Sa27?si=MrLdELutSJSdcw5WyW-ekQPast “Summer Strut” Gabfests are available here: 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by New Yorker staff writer Doreen St. Félix to talk about I May Destroy You. Then, Steve and Dana are joined by Isaac Butler, writer and co-host of this season of Slate’s Working podcast, to discuss the filmed version of Hamilton, now streaming on Disney Plus. Finally, the panel dives into Julia’s comfort-watch pick of the week: the 1996 disaster film Twister.In Slate Plus, the hosts continue to talk with Isaac about Hamilton, its ending, its significance in 2020, and more.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Smartface by SmartfaceEndorsementsDana: Scott Brick’s narration of Ron Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton.Julia: The movie Dave.Steve: “Wanting Wrong” by Anne Enright in the New York Review of Books.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by Jamelle Bouie to talk about the toppling of statues across the country. Then, the panel talks about Spike Lee’s latest film Da 5 Bloods. Finally, they discuss Julia’s comfort-watch pick: Center Stage.In Slate Plus, the hosts discuss the postponement of the Oscars to 2021.Other items discussed in the show:The Slate podcast series Reconstruction, hosted by Jamelle Bouie and Rebecca OnionThis Twitter thread on the history of Mount Rushmore“‘First Cow’ for best picture? A critic’s guide to the Oscars if movie theaters don’t reopen in 2020,” by Justin Chang in the Los Angeles TimesPodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Self Made Woman by Katharine AppletonEndorsementsDana: Jamelle Bouie’s newsletter.Julia: Waterproof UNO, the card game.Steve: Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall.The French spy thriller The Bureau. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode, Steve, Dana, and Julia are joined by Lauren Michele Jackson to discuss her recent piece in Vulture, “What Is an Anti-Racist Reading List For?” Then, the panel talks about cop shows during this current moment, jumping off of a recent article in the Washington Post by Alyssa Rosenberg that argues these procedurals that tend to glorify the police should be canceled. Finally, they discuss the power of citizen-shot videos of police brutality that are widely shared on social media.In Slate Plus, the hosts discuss the New York Times’s decision to publish an op-ed by Sen. Tom Cotton and what the fallout means for newsrooms today. You can sign up for Slate Plus at slate.com/cultureplusPodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Cheap Flights by Dylan Sitts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss Mindy Kaling’s new television show Never Have I Ever. Next, they talk about Twitter beefs in the time of COVID-19—from Alison Roman to Lana del Rey. Finally, the panel dives into Steve’s comfort watch for this week: Out of Sight.On the Slate Plus segment this week, Dana and Steve try Sudoku for the first time, as inspired by this recent captivating video. Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Woke by SINYEndorsementsDana: Anne V. Coates’s interview on Out of Sight.Charlotte Brontë’s Villette, especially as an audiobook.Julia: “The Miracle Sudoku” video, as discussed in our Plus segment.“How to Make Wylie Dufresne’s Incredibly Creamy Scrambled Egg Sandwich,” by Wylie Dufresne, as told to Emma Wartzman in Bon Appétit.Steve: “The Painting Behind the Door,” by Emily Benedek in Tablet magazine.Singer Laura Marling’s breaking down her guitar chords on social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss the Hulu adaption of Sally Rooney’s Normal People. Next, they talk about John Krasinski’s Some Good News. Finally, the panel dives into Dana’s comfort watch for this week: In a Lonely Place.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel is joined by Jody Rosen to talk about the music and legacy of Little Richard. Sign up for Slate Plus at Slate.com/cultureplusPodcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Endorsements:Dana: Spike Lee’s short film about New York City.Julia: The Donut Hole in La Puente, Calif., a trip inspired after reading “Drive-throughs and drive-ins were fading. Coronavirus made them a lifeline” by Carolina A. Miranda in the Los Angeles Times.Steve: Nick Lowe performing “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding” as part of Rolling Stone’s “In My Room” series. Also, Nick Lowe’s “I Read A Lot.”Plus, check out Madison Cunningham’s “Dry As Sand.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens shares a message for Culture Gabfest listeners.Become a Slate Plus member now to support the show, and you'll get a bonus segment every episode, ad-free Slate podcasts, and access to Dana Stevens' member-exclusive movies podcast Flashback. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner break down the Netflix miniseries Unorthodox. Next, they bring on Jesse David Fox, Vulture writer and host of the Good One podcast, to talk about the state of comedy today. Finally, the panel dives into Julia’s comfort watch pick for this week: the iconic and hilarious Airplane!On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses how their fitness routines have changed in quarantine.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss Hulu’s historical drama Mrs. America. Next, they bring on Slate music critic Carl Wilson to break down Fiona Apple’s latest album “Fetch the Bolt Cutters.” Finally, the panel discusses Steve’s favorite movie of all time: Local Hero. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel takes on quarantine cookery. Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner analyze the latest way to watch television: Quibi. Next, they bring on Slate music critic Carl Wilson to talk about the legacy of the late songwriter John Prine. Finally, the panel dives into The Talented Mr. Ripley, Dana’s comfort watch pick for this week.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each week, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Saturday Night Live’s recent “at home” show.Outro Music: 'Apocalypse' by Cigarettes After Sex Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. EndorsementsDana: John Dickerson’s interview with John Prine from February 2019.Julia: Jim Dale’s audiobook narration of the Harry Potter series—except for his voice of Hermione.Steve: The Lucksmiths. Again.The music of Cigarettes After Sex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner are joined by Jen Agg to talk about the fate of the restaurant industry. Next, they bring on New York Times Magazine contributing writer Jody Rosen to discuss the passing of Adam Schlesinger. Finally, the panel dives into Julia’s favorite movie and comfort watch—Sneakers. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each week, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses their results to the Statistical "Which Character" Personality Quiz.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: “All Kinds of Time” by Fountains of Wayne EndorsementsJody: The singer Bill Withers, particularly his albums Naked & Warm and ’Justments. Jonathan Cecil’s audiobook reading of P.G. Wodehouse’s Uncle Fred in the Springtime. Dana: Interview with Better Call Saul’s Rhea Seehorn on the Ringer podcast “The Watch.”Julia: “Nutmeg” from A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!Steve: The songwriter Marty Donald of The Lucksmiths found here in Steve’s Spotify playlist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf is joined by Slate senior editor Sam Adams and Slate podcast producer Daniel Schroeder discuss the wildness of Tiger King. Then, Steve teams back up with Dana Stevens and Julia Turner to talk about one of his favorite comfort watches: Paddington 2. Finally, the panel analyzes celebrity in the age of coronavirus by exploring the two recent telethons respectively hosted by Elton John and James Corden.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Bob Dylan’s newest song.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each week, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Outro Music: "The One I Love (Belongs to Somebody Else)" by Julie LondonEndorsementsDana: The singer Julie LondonJulia: Hoosker Doosker Tug of War gameSteve: “They Survived the Spanish Flu, the Depression and the Holocaust,” by Ginia Bellafante in the New York Times“A Star in a Stoneboat,” by Robert Frost Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Dana Stevens rejoins Stephen Metcalf and Julia Turner from her book leave for a few segments. First, Steve and Dana chat with Slate’s books and culture columnist Laura Miller about The Plot Against America. Next, Steve, Dana, and Julia talk about the power of walking, particularly in this time of quarantine, and the literary history that precedes the activity. Finally, Steve and Julia chat with Slate staff writer Dan Kois about the 1996 film Big Night, a delicious comfort watch.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel checks in with each other about how they’re doing during this time of quarantine. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Outro Music: “Higher Love” cover from Kygo & Whitney Houston EndorsementsDana: “Kasha is the new nutmeg.”Patti LuPone’s basement tours.Julia: “Higher Love,” the Whitney Houston and Kygo remix.Steve: “Buh Black Snake in New England,” by Benjamin Anastas in Oxford American. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner, and guest host and Slate staff writer Dan Kois talk about the film Spenser Confidential, starring Mark Wahlberg on Netflix. Next, they discuss Reply All’s recent episode “The Case of the Missing Hit.” Finally, the panel is joined by Dana Stevens to lay out how they approach culture during this time of quarantine. How much do we lean into escapism? On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel takes on Steve’s own “missing hit” mystery.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Outro Music: Lost Something in the Hills" by Sibylle Baier.EndorsementsDana: Colour Green by Sibylle Baier.Dan: The “Sondheim at 90” package by the New York Times. The album Side by Side by Sondheim. Julia: The poem “My Heart Leaps Up” by William Wordsworth.Steve: Always Narrating: The Making and Unmaking of Umberto Eco by Costica Bradatan in the Los Angeles Review of Books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner, and guest host and Slate staff writer Dan Kois talk about Kelly Reichardt’s film First Cow. Next, they bring on Slate television critic Willa Paskin to discuss the latest episode of her podcast Decoder Ring, which dives into the real-life bookstore battle behind You’ve Got Mail. Finally, the panel dives into Molly Fischer’s feature in the Cut on the millennial aesthetic. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses the cancellation of Woody Allen’s memoir. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Additional production help by Rosemary Belson.Outro Music: "Party All The Time" by Eddie MurphyOther items discussed on the show: “I Made the Oily Cakes From First Cow,” by Dan Kois in Slate. “Bookstores That Live Only in the Mind,” by Dan Kois in the New York Times.EndorsementsDan: The March Badness bracket of songs.Julia: Print out your cooking recipes.Steve: “Reading Richard Rorty in Tehran” by Samuel Thrope in the Nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner, and guest host and Slate staff writer Dan Kois talk about the hit Netflix dating reality show Love Is Blind with Slate podcast producer Daniel Schroeder. Next, they discuss tomboys, jumping off of a recent New York Times op-ed. Finally, the panel takes on the coronavirus, analyzing the epidemic through various pieces of culture. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses a New York Times op-ed from an editor whose ex-boyfriend is now dating Lady Gaga. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Additional production help by Rosemary Belson.Outro Music: 'Shattered & Hollow' by First Aid KitEndorsementsDan: The graphic memoir Tomboy by Liz Prince.Pitchfork’s Sunday Reviews.Julia: The viral video where a camera falls from an airplane…Steve: “No Ghost in the Machine” by Mark Halpern in the American Scholar.The album Stay Gold by First Aid Kit.HostsStephen MetcalfJulia TurnerDan KoisSocial Media@slatecultfest on Twitterhttps://twitter.com/slatecultfest@slateculturepodcasts on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/slateculturepodcasts/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner, and guest host and Slate staff writer Dan Kois talk about Céline Sciamma’s Portrait of a Lady on Fire. Next, they discuss Taylor Swift’s documentary Miss Americana. Finally, the panel dives into “garbage language” a.k.a corporate buzzwords—unnecessary or effective? On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses a contentious subject—whether Leonardo DiCaprio was already a star before Titanic?Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Additional production help by Rosemary Belson.Outro Music: 'The Man' by Taylor SwiftEndorsementsDan: Reading Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies before The Mirror & the Light, the third book in the trilogy, is released March 10. Julia: Golden State by Ben H. Winters.Steve: “Reading Sade in the Age of Epstein” by Mitchell Abidor in The New York Review of Books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf is joined by two guests hosts: Sam Anderson, New York Times Magazine staff writer and author of Boom Time, and Dan Kois, Slate staff writer and author of How to Be a Family. First, the panel discusses The Assistant, the indie film with heavy Harvey Weinstein overtones. Next, they dive into Hulu’s reboot of High Fidelity, starring Zoë Kravitz. Finally, the panel breaks down the work of Jenny Odell, including her book How to Do Nothing and her recent Paris Review essay “The Myth of Self-Reliance.”On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Dan Kois’s recent Slate story on a New Zealand fantasy masterpiece—an article that catalyzed the book’s publication in the U.S. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Additional production help by Rosemary Belson.Outro Music: ‘Lonely World’ by Moses SumneyEndorsementsDan: The writing of Charles Portis, including True Grit and Norwood.Sam: John Cage’s performance of “Water Walk” on “I’ve Got a Secret” in 1960 (as Jenny Odell recommends).Steve: Seeing Parasite a second time. “The Professor of Denial” by Amanda J. Crawford in The Chronicle of Higher Education.Moses Sumney’s Aromanticism Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner break down the Oscars and Bong Joon-ho’s historic win. Next, the discuss Star Trek: Picard with Slate associate editor and Trekkie Marissa Martinelli. Finally, they dive into a recent New York Times Magazine article on the way television imagines New York City. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the fashion of the Oscars. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Eminem Performs 'Lose Yourself' at Oscars 2020EndorsementsDana: Bong Joon Ho’s Oscar acceptance speeches, as Dana wrote about in her recent Slate piece “Bong Joon-ho’s Oscar Night Had All the Genre-Bending Twists of His Movies.”Julia: “Chasing Colombia’s ‘cocaine hippos’” by Peter Rowe in the Los Angeles Times.Steve: “The Seriousness of George Steiner” by Adam Gopnik in the New Yorker.“An Evening With George Steiner (1929-2020)” by Kinton Ford in n+1. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

`This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner dive into Ford v Ferrari before the Oscars this weekend. Next, they discuss Netflix’s reality show The Circle with Slate’s editorial director—and Circle-enthusiast—Laura Bennett. Finally, they analyze the controversy surrounding Jeanine Cummins’s American Dirt with Los Angeles Times staff writer Daniel Hernandez.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Super Bowl ads with Slate’s Justin Peters. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: ‘The Circle Theme (Netflix)’ by Patrizio Knight HostsStephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia TurnerEndorsementsDana: “‘Jojo Rabbit’ Captures the Horror and Absurdity of our Trumpian Moment,” by Masha Gessen in The New Yorker.Julia: The Good Wife.Steve: Cheer (specifically, La’Darius’s brother’s face).“The Money Behind Trump’s Money,” by David Enrich in The New York Times Magazine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner untangle the oddity that is Jojo Rabbit, discuss whether Netflix’s sport docu-series Cheer lives up to the hype, and talk to Slate’s music critic Carl Wilson about this year’s Grammys. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Kobe Bryant and the reactions to his death.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Lizzo's "Cuz I Love You" & "Truth Hurts" 2020 Grammy PerformanceEndorsementsDana: ‘Gigi Bryant Was a Great Basketball Player’ by Josh LevinJulia: ‘The Rise of the Dancefluencer’ by Makeda EasterSteve: ‘The Myth of Self-Reliance’ by Jenny Odell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner dive into Honeyland, Tamara Kotevska and Ljubomir Stefanov’s Academy Award-nominated documentary following a beekeeper in Macedonia. Next, they chat about Jeopardy! The Greatest of All Time. Finally, Slate’s Laura Miller joins the panel to discuss Jia Tolentino’s Trick Mirror and the role—and critiques—of the modern female essayist.On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel discusses Oscar nominations. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: The Futureheads’ cover of Kate Bush’s “Hounds of Love.”HostsStephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia TurnerEndorsementsDana: Jia Tolentino’s Trick Mirror audiobook. Julia: Jenny Odell’s How to Do Nothing. Steve: Ian Rankin’s “Inspector Rebus” book series.The Futureheads’ cover of Kate Bush’s “Hounds of Love.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and June Thomas discuss Sam Mendes' film 1917, the new installment in the UP documentary series, 63 UP, and the British royal phenomenon that has become known as Megxit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Culture Gabfest, Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner dive into Little Women, writer-director Greta Gerwig’s adaption—perhaps the best adaption yet—of Louisa May Alcott’s novel that follows the lives of the four March sisters. Next, they discuss the risky jokes, heartfelt speeches, and weird red carpet looks of this year’s Golden Globes. Finally, they chat about The Movie Club, Slate’s annual conversation among film critics led by Dana about this year in film. On the Slate Plus segment this week, the panel spoils the ending to Little Women. EndorsementsDana: Atlantics, a Cannes Grand Prix-winning film by French-Senegalese director Mati Diop, streaming on Netflix.Julia: A withdrawal of a previous endorsement—the book The Power of the Dog by Don Winslow—because of its sexist treatment of women. The Marvel supervillain M.O.D.O.K.Steve: The German-Austrian comedy-drama Toni Erdmann, directed, written, and co-produced by Maren Ade. Available for rent on Amazon Prime.Outro Music: It’s Romance by Alexandre Desplat from the Little Women Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Podcast production by Jessamine Molli. Production assistance by Rachael Allen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens hosts a selection of a few of our favorite Slate Plus bonus segments, offering them to our regular listeners for the first time. You'll hear Steve, Julia and Dana talk about the new live action CATS, discuss impactful nonfiction with Slate's Laura Miller, remember critic Harold Bloom, and decipher what went wrong with Jill Abramson's Merchants of Truth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner take listener call-in questions, including what books, music, and beverages they would take to a well-appointed Alpine cabin and much, much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner talk to TV critic Willa Paskin about the state of the medium, discuss Mariah Carey's surprise Christmas number one hit, and discuss the Peloton ad that has the internet atwitter.This episode is brought to you by Everlane. Check out your personalized collection today at everlane.com/culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss The Marriage Story, speak with author Simon Doonan about the death of the department store window display, and debate whether social media killed our sense of time - and the 2010s as a decade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss Knives Out, speak with New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie about Watchmen, and remember Clive James with Adam Gopnik. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner and Stephen Metcalf talk with guests about Gogglebox, a show that lets you watch Brits watch TV, Bon Appetit's "Gourmet Makes" on YouTube, and the best nonfiction books of the past 25 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner, and Stephen Metcalf are live in at the Granville Island Stage in Vancouver to discuss The Irishman, Schitt's Creek, and creepy ads that follow you around. In Slate Plus: Questions from the live audience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner, and Stephen Metcalf are live in Los Angeles to discuss Parasite with the LA Times critic Justin Chang, happiness in the modern world, and Dickinson from Apple TV+, with showrunner Alena Smith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss Netflix's My Name is Dolemite, Apple TV+'s The Morning Show, and the mass resignations that took place at the website Deadspin with Slate's Tom Scocca.This episode is brought to you by Everlane. Check out your personalized collection today at everlane.com/culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner, Dana Stevens, and Stephen Metcalf discuss the horror classic Rosemary's Baby, the TV show Modern Love, and Morrissey's political legacy with the LA Times Randall Roberts. In Slate Plus: The Marvel vs. Scorsese kerfuffle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss the film Pain and Glory with Slate's June Thomas, the podcast Dolly Parton's America, and the Slate profile of Lauren Gunderson, the most popular playwright in America, with author Dan Kois. In Slate Plus: cats vs. dogs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Stephen Metcalf, and Julia Turner discuss the Breaking Bad movie El Camino, The Great British Baking Show, and the streaming wars and the future of television. In Slate Plus, the panel discuss the work of critic Harold Bloom who died this week with professor Al Filreis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner, Stephen Metcalf, and Dana Stevens discuss the film Joker, Transparent's musical finale episode, and the question of Gwyneth Paltrow with critic Wesley Morris. Producer's Note: You’ve probably noticed that this feed now features a lot of Slate culture podcasts beyond just our show. We’ve heard that some of you would prefer to get just the Culture Gabfest in your feed. If that’s you, Slate has created a new feed that should meet your needs. You can find it by searching for “Culture Gabfest” in Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf and Dana Stevens discuss the new Judy Garland biopic Judy with Slate's Sam Adams, Netflix's Unbelievable with Slate's Inkoo Kang, and welcome Simon Doonan back to the show to discuss his new book about the art and history of drag. In Slate Plus, more from the conversation with Simon Doonan.This episode is brought to you by Everlane. Check out your personalized collection today at everlane.com/culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner, Dana Stevens, and Stephen Metcalf discuss the movie Ad Astra, the HGTV show A Very Brady Renovation and George Packer's piece in The Atlantic "When the Culture War Comes for Our Kids". Plus: The Emmys. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner, Dana Stevens, and Stephen Metcalf discuss the movie Hustlers, Ken Burns' PBS documentary about country music with Slate's Carl Wilson, and the saga of Caroline Calloway in The Cut. In Slate Plus, the panel discusses the life and work of photographer Robert Frank with Slate's Fred Kaplan. This episode is brought to you by Everlane. Check out your personalized collection today at everlane.com/culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner, and Stephen Metcalf discuss the new Netflix streamer American Factory, Lana Del Ray's new album with Slate's Carl Wilson, and talk to Dana about her recent residency at a nunnery in Idaho. In Slate Plus, the panel discuss their fantasy residencies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.