David Bianculli

Tim Robbins, an Academy Award-winning actor and founder of The Actors Gang, discusses his new play, Topsy-Turvy, which explores the impact of COVID isolation on a chorus. He reflects on how the pandemic challenged his core beliefs and shaped his artistic approach. Robbins also shares his journey from street theater to intimate productions, emphasizing the transformative power of live theater. Meanwhile, David Bianculli reviews the Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning, highlighting its compelling performances and relevance to current themes.

Julian Barnes, an acclaimed novelist and memoirist known for winning the Man Booker Prize, discusses his impactful new book, Departures. He opens up about his recent diagnosis with blood cancer, blending memoir and fiction, and the philosophy of facing mortality. Reflecting on grief after losing his wife, he shares insights on memory's malleability and how contemplating death enriches life. Meanwhile, TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new series Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, highlighting its tone and characters.

Will Arnett, the talented actor and comedian known for his roles in 'Arrested Development' and 'BoJack Horseman,' discusses his new film 'Is This Thing On?' and the challenges faced in middle-aged relationships. He shares stories from his undercover stand-up gigs and how he confronted Bradley Cooper about humor. With insights on voice acting and how his father's values shaped him, Arnett's candid reflections on honesty in relationships and his comedic journey make for an engaging conversation. TV critic David Bianculli also shares his top TV picks for 2025.

Manuel Bettencourt, an author shaped by Dahl's childhood magic, and David Bianculli, an NPR TV critic and professor, dissect film and TV takes on Dahl. They compare why some adaptations soar while others fail. Conversations cover Gene Wilder's Wonka, Hitchcock and Anderson's successes, Tarantino's misfire, and how filmmakers handle Dahl's tone and imagery.

Cameron Crowe, acclaimed filmmaker behind hits like Almost Famous and Jerry Maguire, dives into his unconventional teenage years as a rock journalist in his memoir The Uncool. He shares gripping tales of sneaking backstage at 15, mastering the art of authentic interviews, and being mentored by the legendary Lester Bangs. The discussion also touches on candid moments with rock icons like David Bowie, the complexities of groupie culture, and how embracing 'uncoolness' became a badge of honor for Crowe. Plus, David Bianculli reviews the new season of The Diplomat.