Podcast Like It's ... 82: My Blueberry Nights with David Sims
Feb 20, 2026
David Sims, film critic and co-host of Blank Check, brings sharp cinephile perspective. They dissect Wong Kar-wai’s English-language detour, Norah Jones’ debut screen presence, Jude Law’s mid-2000s rom-com ubiquity, and the film’s American road-movie construction. Conversation also spotlights casting choices, the Cannes premiere, and the film’s dessert-infused visual pleasures.
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Anomalous English-Language Detour
- My Blueberry Nights feels like an anomaly in Wong Kar-wai's career because it's an English-language, US-shot detour from his usual work.
- The film reads as a smaller, more touristy experiment rather than the ambitious blank-check projects like 2046 or The Grandmaster.
Casting Versus Wong's Visual Intimacy
- Casting Norah Jones created mixed expectations because she felt fresh but too bland opposite more theatrical performers.
- The film needed a lead with a stronger cinematic presence to match Wong Kar-wai's visual, intimate shooting style.
Viewer's Disappointment Turned Fondness
- David recounts seeing My Blueberry Nights in 2008 as a hyped Wong Kar-wai fan who left profoundly disappointed.
- He later softened on rewatch and now finds parts, especially the Jude Law–Norah Jones section, enjoyably pretty.