Critics at Large Live: The Right to Get It Wrong – A Comprehensive Summary

Release Date: March 20, 2025

Introduction: Celebrating a Century of The New Yorker

In this special live episode of Critics at Large, hosted by The New Yorker, Vincent Cunningham, Nomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz come together at the Bell House in Brooklyn to commemorate the magazine's 100th anniversary. The hosts reflect on a century of New Yorker criticism, exploring how critics have evolved and, notably, how they've occasionally missed the mark.

A Nostalgic Look Back: The Game Show Segment

To kick off the celebration, the hosts engage the live audience with an interactive game centered around historical New Yorker reviews. They present excerpts from past reviews and challenge the audience to identify the films or books being critiqued. This segment not only serves as entertainment but also underscores the theme of the episode: the fallibility of critics.

Example Highlight:

• Vincent Cunningham [06:06]: "In 1989, Terrence Rafferty called this classic rom-com 'helplessly false...'"

The audience successfully identifies the review as pertaining to When Harry Met Sally, showcasing both the depth of archival knowledge and the changing perceptions of beloved classics.

When Critics Miss the Mark: Notable Missteps in New Yorker Reviews

The heart of the episode delves into instances where New Yorker's critics didn't quite hit the mark, emphasizing that being wrong is an inherent part of the critical process. The discussion highlights how criticism often mirrors its era's sentiments and societal norms, which can lead to misjudgments as tastes and contexts evolve.

Key Examples Discussed:

1. The Wizard of Oz (1939) – Russell Maloney's Review:

   • Nomi Fry [13:07]: Criticizes Walt Disney's The Wizard of Oz for lacking imagination and technical ingenuity.
   • Deborah Treisman [14:47]: Reflects on how this negative review contrasts sharply with the film's enduring legacy, reminding listeners that even iconic films faced skepticism upon release.

2. Scarface (1983) – Pauline Kael's Critique:

   • Nomi Fry [19:24]: Discusses Kael's disdain for Al Pacino's portrayal of Tony Montana, labeling him a "lump at the center of the movie."
   • Alex Schwartz [20:08]: Explores the complexity of Kael's analysis, acknowledging both agreement and disagreement with her points.

3. Finnegan's Wake by James Joyce:

   • Deborah Treisman [08:38]: Highlights the skepticism surrounding Joyce's complex novel, with critics questioning its accessibility and lasting impact.

Personal Reflections: Changing Perspectives

The hosts share personal anecdotes about instances where their initial critical stances evolved over time, underscoring the dynamic nature of taste and understanding.

• Nomi Fry [34:34]: Recounts her transformation from criticizing Todd Haynes' Carol to appreciating its nuances after viewing it again.
• Deborah Treisman [31:00]: Admits to revisiting Lost in Translation and finding new layers of appreciation despite initial reservations.

These stories illustrate the fluidity of criticism and the importance of remaining open to reevaluating one's opinions.

The Essence of Criticism: Passion and Honesty

A recurring theme is the necessity for critics to remain passionate and honest in their assessments. The hosts argue that true criticism isn't just about consensus but involves a deep engagement with the material, even if it means dissenting from popular opinion.

Notable Quote:

• Alex Schwartz [26:45]: "The note of passion is the mark of truth in criticism."

They emphasize that criticism thrives on diverse perspectives and that disagreements are vital for the evolution of cultural discourse.

Honoring Influential Critics: Richard Brody's Unique Perspective

The episode pays homage to Richard Brody, a revered New Yorker critic known for his unconventional takes. His positive review of Norbit, often viewed as a subpar film, is lauded for its nuanced appreciation of Eddie Murphy's talent, demonstrating how critics can find value in unexpected places.

Highlighted Quote:

• Alex Schwartz [38:40]: "Richard's ability to locate the spark in Norbit that resonates with fans showcases the depth and potential of thoughtful criticism."

Conclusion: Embracing the Right to Be Wrong

Wrapping up the celebration, the hosts affirm the importance of embracing the possibility of being wrong as a cornerstone of meaningful criticism. They advocate for a reflective approach that appreciates both successes and missteps in the critical landscape.

Final Insight:

• Nomi Fry [40:49]: "If you take nothing else from tonight, it really is great to care."

This sentiment encapsulates the episode's essence: that passion and honesty in criticism not only enrich cultural conversations but also foster personal growth among critics.

Closing Remarks: Looking Forward

While the episode concludes with acknowledgments and promotional content, the discussions leave listeners with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of criticism and the value of historical context in shaping contemporary viewpoints.

This comprehensive summary captures the key discussions, insights, and reflections from the live episode of Critics at Large, providing a nuanced understanding of the role and evolution of criticism within The New Yorker's storied legacy.