The latest episode of the Slate Culture Gabfest dives into a range of topics, including the new film The Secret Agent, a prequel to Game of Thrones titled A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and an intriguing article on innovative teaching methods at the University of Pennsylvania. The panel features hosts Steve Metcalf, along with guest hosts Nadira Goffe and Laura Miller, offering insightful commentary on these cultural phenomena.
In the opening segment, the discussion focuses on The Secret Agent, directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. Set in the politically charged atmosphere of 1970s Recife, Brazil, the film stars the charismatic Wagner Moura. The narrative blends elements of political thriller and magical realism, providing a unique lens on life under dictatorship. The panel unpacks the film’s themes of dream imagery and unspoken truths, highlighting its depth and character exploration.
Transitioning to the world of fantasy, the panel shifts gears to discuss A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. This prequel, based on the works of George R.R. Martin, takes place a century before the events of the original series. While it is grounded in a more humorous tone, the absence of dragons marks a significant departure from its predecessor. The hosts reflect on how this new narrative enriches the lore of Westeros while providing fresh comedic elements.
The conversation also touches on an article from Vulture by Lila Shapiro, which examines the unconventional teaching methods employed by Professor Justin McDaniel at the University of Pennsylvania. McDaniel’s approach includes extreme measures to ensure that his students complete their reading assignments, raising questions about educational engagement in contemporary academia. The panel debates the effectiveness and ethical implications of these methods.
In an exclusive bonus segment for Slate Plus subscribers, the hosts engage with Laura Miller about her recent piece, “The Art of the Holzhausen,” which discusses the unexpected pleasures of wood stacking. This discussion adds a personal touch to the broader cultural commentary, showcasing the diverse interests of the panel.
The episode concludes with each host sharing their endorsements. Nadira recommends the melancholic shoegaze albums Goodbyehouse by Snuggle and Big City Life by Smerz. Laura champions the novels in the Shadow of the Leviathan series by Robert Jackson Bennett, including the Hugo-winning The Tainted Cup and A Drop of Corruption. Steve highlights an insightful Substack essay by Adam Bonica titled “The Wall Looks Permanent Until It Falls Down,” discussing the costs of American exceptionalism. Dana adds a recommendation for Pictures of Ghosts, a documentary from Kleber Mendonça Filho focusing on Recife in the 1970s.
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts via email at [email protected]. The Slate Culture Gabfest continues to be recognized as an essential cultural commentary, praised by critics like Dwight Garner of the New York Times. The show remains a platform for engaging discussions about the intersection of high culture and popular media.
