Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.
Beetlejuice is back, in a supernatural screwball sequel
Director Tim Burton seems more interested in updating than duplicating his 1988 hit. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice demonstrates affection for the characters and genuine curiosity in how they’re doing now.
From Gladiator Duels To Caesar's Last Words: The Myths Of Ancient Rome
Historian Mary Beard says many of our popular notions about the empire are based on culture rather than fact. Her new book is called SPQR. Originally broadcast Nov. 30, 2015.
Robbers And Rangers Collide In 'Hell Or High Water'
by David Edelstein
Two masked robbers clean out small branches of a Texas bank in David Mackenzie's new neo-Western. Critic David Edelstein calls Hell or High Water a work of "broad scale and deep feeling."
Jacqueline Woodson's 'Brooklyn' Is Full Of Dreams And Danger
The National Book Award winner's new novel is based in part on her memories of growing up in Brooklyn in the 1970s. Woodson describes the teen years as an "amazing and urgent moment" in life.
From Brexit To The U.S. Presidential Race, Musicians Respond To Political Turmoil
by Ken Tucker
Critic Ken Tucker reviews new music by the British punk band The Mekons and the American country-rock band The Mavericks. Both groups have recorded new songs that were inspired by recent news events.
Novel Explores The Fierce And Frenzied World Of Competitive Gymnastics
by Maureen Corrigan
Megan Abbott's new book takes readers deep into the intense, vacuum-sealed universe of young female gymnasts and their parents. Critic Maureen Corrigan says You Will Know Me is worthy of a gold medal.
'Little Men' Combines Stark Economic Realities With Hope For A Better Future
by David Edelstein
As their parents engage in a bitter real-estate dispute, the friendship between two adolescent boys deepens in Ira Sach's new film. Critic David Edelstein calls Little Men "quietly devastating."
What Etgar Keret Learned From His Father About Storytelling And Survival
Keret's memoir, The Seven Good Years, spans the time between the birth of his son and the death of his father, who was a Holocaust survivor. Originally broadcast June 16, 2015.
For James Corden, 'Carpool Karaoke' Has Been An Incredible Ride
The Late Late Show host talks about belting out songs with celebrities like Elton John, Steve Wonder and Adele. He tells Fresh Air's Terry Gross he doesn't know what he did to deserve this great gig.