Dan Kois

Join Dan Kois, a keen cultural commentator from Slate, and Sam Adams, a discerning cultural critic, as they delve into the second season of Andor. They discuss its striking realism and thematic depth, likening it to The Wire. The duo also explores a modern remake of The Wedding Banquet, reflecting on LGBTQ stories and societal pressures. Additionally, they share insights into the discovery of a new color, Olo, highlighting its implications for art and perception. Tune in for a colorful mix of culture and commentary!

Guest host Dan Kois, a freelance writer and cultural commentator, joins the conversation about the complexities of adaptations and musical storytelling. They dive into the darker themes in "Wicked for Good," praising Ariana Grande's powerful performance while debating the divide's impact. The discussion shifts to "Train Dreams,' exploring its visual beauty and the nuances lost in adaptation. Lastly, they reflect on the intimate escape of "Peter Hujar’s Day," highlighting its portrayal of art and friendship. Tune in for a rich cultural journey!

Dan Kois, a seasoned writer at Slate and author of five books, dives into the pressing issues of aviation safety. He discusses the alarming increase in near misses and the systemic challenges faced by air traffic control due to staffing shortages. The conversation critiques the political blame game following recent crashes, questioning Congress's commitment to safety versus convenience. Kois also examines the impact of pilot shortages and calls for a transparent culture in aviation, urging a reevaluation of our societal values regarding safety.

Dan Kois, Jason Zinoman, and Parul Sehgal discuss Martin Amis' debut novel 'The Rachel Papers', diving into the protagonist's complexities, graphic portrayals of sexuality, and themes of ambition, identity, and literary influences. They explore Charles Highway's paradoxical character, strained relationships, and societal perceptions, offering intriguing insights into Amis' early career and provocative writing style.

Join guest Dan Kois, a seasoned cultural critic, as he dives into a thrilling discussion on three captivating films. The conversation kicks off with thoughts on 'Wicked: Part Two,' exploring its unexpected dark turns and Ariana Grande's standout performance. They then shift to 'Train Dreams,' debating the challenges of adapting Denis Johnson’s novella and its striking visual style. Lastly, they reflect on 'Peter Hujar’s Day,' a deeply engaging chamber piece, highlighting Ben Whishaw’s mesmerizing performance and the film's intricate exploration of memory and portraiture.