New York Times Film Critic A. O. Scott
March 28, 2016
Welcome to Episode 26 of Products of the Mind. On this episode, I speak with journalist, Chief Film Critic of the New York Times, and author: A. O. Scott.
“The point of real criticism I think is to move beyond just the statement of opinion, which isn’t necessarily very helpful to anyone, and turn your opinion into something useful, into an argument that people can grapple with.”
Today we chat with Tony Scott: a film critic for the New York Times and author of Better Living Through Criticism. Tony talks a bit about the role of print vs online journalism as they relate to criticism; what goes on in a writer’s head; and the perceptions a critic might have of a popular hit movie.
What is criticism? Have there always been critics? Will there always be critics? What impact might criticism have on the thing being criticized? Tony fills us in on the unique role of criticism, and the interesting dynamics between criticism and film versus television. Is it possible Netflix and Hulu are changing the way we think about on-screen entertainment?
Think being a critic is easy? Tony discusses getting blasted on Twitter by Samuel L. Jackson after his review of The Avengers. He also discusses the outcomes and possible benefits of these interactions as they relate to journalism overall. Ever wonder what inspires a critic to do what they do? Learn about the kind of influence satire films and Mad Magazine had on Tony’s career.
We’ll also discuss the “golden age of television,” serial shows versus movies, and what might make a film boring.
This and more today with A. O. Scott.
Tony is @aoscott on Twitter
Tony’s New York Times Page
Other mentions from this Episode:
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The Credits
Products of the Mind is produced by Mana Monzavi.
The illustration accompanying these show notes is by Whit Harris.
The theme music for this episode was provided by Le Chateau. The track name is “Bury You.” Go buy it on Soundcloud!
This episode and these show notes © 2016 David Lizerbram
