Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster – Episode 270: Sebastian Stan

Introduction

In Episode 270 of Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster, comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster welcome acclaimed actor Sebastian Stan to their whimsical Dream Restaurant. The episode, released on November 6, 2024, delves deep into Sebastian's latest endeavors, his personal tastes, and lighthearted banter about pranks and favorite foods. Drawing listeners into an engaging and humorous conversation, the hosts explore Sebastian's perspectives both on-screen and off.

Exploring "A Different Man"

The conversation kicks off with Sebastian Stan introducing his new film, A Different Man, a psychological thriller comedy that explores themes of identity and transformation. Sebastian describes the film as a "passing the torch" narrative, emphasizing the shift from non-disabled actors portraying characters with disabilities to actors with disabilities seamlessly fitting into diverse roles.

Sebastian Stan [05:02]: "A Different Man is a psychological thriller comedy about a man who undergoes facial reconstruction surgery only to become obsessed with the actor who plays him in a stage production based on his former life."

Ed Gamble expresses excitement about the film's innovative approach, noting Sebastian's co-star, Adam Pearson, and his versatile work in British television. James Acaster adds, highlighting the film's unique narrative that challenges conventional casting norms and fosters meaningful conversations about representation in the industry.

Behind the Scenes: Pranks and Set Stories

Transitioning from film discussions, the episode takes a playful turn as Sebastian shares anecdotes about pranks and humorous incidents on set. Ed and James engage Sebastian in a light-hearted dialogue about potential pranks involving fellow actors like Anthony Mackie, blending humor with creative ideas for future escapades.

Ed Gamble [06:09]: "Yes, we will. And the secret ingredient this week is winter peas."

Sebastian muses about pranking celebrities, suggesting scenarios where pranks could intertwine with their professional lives without crossing boundaries. The trio laughs over ideas like surprise rap battles and playful setups that would leave guests both amused and bewildered.

Crafting the Dream Menu

A significant portion of the episode revolves around constructing Sebastian Stan's Dream Menu, where guests outline their ideal starter, main course, side dish, dessert, and drink. This segment showcases the hosts' ability to blend culinary desires with personal anecdotes, creating a vivid and appetizing picture of Sebastian's favorite foods.

• Starter: Sebastian selects anchovies on toast from Via Corona in New York, appreciating the blend of simple ingredients that deliver robust flavors.

  Sebastian Stan [27:31]: "Do you remember that?"

• Main Course: James Acaster chooses spaghetti and meatballs, praising its nostalgic and hearty nature, while Ed Gamble suggests a versatile potato platter with an assortment of preparations.

  James Acaster [33:25]: "I mean, is there anything better than, like, spaghetti and meatballs?"

• Side Dish: A combination of crispy fries and a butter lettuce salad, incorporating fresh and crunchy elements that complement the main course.

  Ed Gamble [42:01]: "We could get you a potato platter with all the different potatoes."

• Dessert: Jenny's Ice Cream from the US, with James highlighting its diverse flavors like peanut butter chocolate and brownie swirl, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.

  James Acaster [55:27]: "I don't know why. It's phenomenal. It's the best ice cream I've had."

• Drink: An Empress gin martini with a twist, noted for its unique presentation and refined taste that elevates the entire dining experience.

  James Acaster [47:13]: "It's somewhere between a really chilled gin martini with a twist or a Negroni Empress gin."

Throughout the menu creation, the hosts and Sebastian exchange stories related to food, childhood memories, and the emotional connections tied to certain dishes. This segment not only highlights their personal preferences but also underscores the universal joy of sharing and savoring food.

Nostalgia and Cultural References

The episode is peppered with references to classic shows and films, invoking a sense of nostalgia among listeners. Discussions touch upon beloved programs like Gladiators, Waiting for Guffman, and Spinal Tap, blending cultural commentary with personal reflections.

James Acaster [37:31]: "I was a big wrestling fan for the same reason."

Sebastian shares memories of Kinder Eggs and their collectible toys, reminiscing about his childhood fascination with unique and playful treats. These conversations paint a picture of shared cultural experiences, fostering a warm and relatable atmosphere.

Humor and Light-Hearted Banter

Ed and James excel in maintaining a humorous and relaxed tone throughout the episode. From witty exchanges about the challenges of creating the perfect dish to playful teasing about pranks gone wrong, the hosts ensure that the conversation remains entertaining and engaging.

Ed Gamble [66:36]: "We're gonna prank the out."

Their ability to seamlessly transition between topics while keeping the humor intact makes for an enjoyable listening experience, even for those unfamiliar with the podcast.

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Ed Gamble and James Acaster express their appreciation for Sebastian Stan's participation, highlighting the delightful mix of insightful discussions and spontaneous humor. The hosts hint at future collaborations and potential prank ideas, leaving listeners anticipating more engaging content in upcoming episodes.

Ed Gamble [65:30]: "This has been shared with me multiple times this morning."

Overall, Episode 270 of Off Menu offers a rich and entertaining exploration of Sebastian Stan's career, personal tastes, and the camaraderie between the hosts and their guest. Through a blend of meaningful dialogue and lighthearted humor, Ed and James create a memorable episode that resonates with both fans of the podcast and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes

• Sebastian Stan [05:02]: "A Different Man is a psychological thriller comedy about a man who undergoes facial reconstruction surgery only to become obsessed with the actor who plays him in a stage production based on his former life."

• James Acaster [47:13]: "It's somewhere between a really chilled gin martini with a twist or a Negroni Empress gin."

• Ed Gamble [66:36]: "We're gonna prank the out."

Timestamp Highlights

• [05:02]: Introduction to Sebastian's new film, A Different Man.
• [27:31]: Discussion about anchovies on toast as a favorite starter.
• [33:25]: James chooses spaghetti and meatballs as his main course.
• [55:27]: James highlights Jenny's Ice Cream as his dream dessert.
• [47:13]: Selection of Empress gin martini as a favorite drink.
• [66:36]: Ed hints at future prank ideas involving Anthony Mackie.

Final Thoughts

This episode stands out for its balanced blend of depth and levity, offering listeners a comprehensive look into Sebastian Stan's projects and personal preferences while maintaining the signature humor that Off Menu is known for. Whether you're a fan of the hosts, Sebastian Stan, or simply enjoy engaging conversations about food and films, Episode 270 is a savory treat worth tuning into.