The Ardor of “Licorice Pizza” The Ardor of “Licorice Pizza”
Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film is his most personal work yet.
Dec 29, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
Who’s to Blame in “The White Lotus”? Who’s to Blame in “The White Lotus”?
In the weeks since the release of Mike White’s latest HBO series, debate has centered on the show’s politics. Is it liberal satire or spectacle?
Sep 15, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
The Unfinished Evolution of Aziz Ansari The Unfinished Evolution of Aziz Ansari
With the latest season of Master of None, the comedian and director’s attempt at a reboot of his creative approach reveals the limits of his perspective.
Jun 23, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
The Caustic Grace of ‘French Exit’ The Caustic Grace of ‘French Exit’
This surreal “tragedy of manners” is a showcase for one of Hollywood’s most compelling actresses—Michelle Pfeiffer.
Apr 29, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
The Rigorous Satire of Search Party The Rigorous Satire of "Search Party"
In its fourth season, the HBO show cements its status as cutting, if imperfect, send-up of millennial self-actualization.
Apr 15, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
The Places John Lurie Can Take You The Places John Lurie Can Take You
A cult musician, actor, and director returns with a television show that’s nominally about painting but is in reality a creative and spiritual journey.
Mar 31, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
John Wilson’s Magically Poignant Urban Histories John Wilson’s Magically Poignant Urban Histories
His documentary series for HBO is a head-spinning interrogation of the chaos of New York City life.
Dec 1, 2020 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
The Perils of Creativity and Capitalism in ‘Tesla’ The Perils of Creativity and Capitalism in ‘Tesla’
Michael Almereyda’s biopic of the eccentric inventor is a portrait of the tensions that arise when art and commerce intersect.
Sep 23, 2020 / Books & the Arts / Vikram Murthi
‘Superstore’ Is the Only Sitcom That Gets Progressive Politics ‘Superstore’ Is the Only Sitcom That Gets Progressive Politics
The NBC comedy openly confronts issues of unionization, health care, and immigration.
Oct 31, 2019 / Vikram Murthi
‘Ramy’ Presents a Nuanced Slice of Life for Millennial Muslims ‘Ramy’ Presents a Nuanced Slice of Life for Millennial Muslims
By turns thoughtful and didactic, the Hulu show is steeped in tensions that you almost never see on TV.
May 10, 2019 / Vikram Murthi