Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.
In 'A Real Pain,' Jesse Eisenberg asks: What is the purpose of 'tragedy tourism'?
Eisenberg's film follows two cousins on a Jewish heritage tour of Poland, which includes a stop at the Majdanek death camp. The story draws on his own family history — and his struggle with OCD.
'Eleanor Amplified,' An Adventure Podcast For The Whole Family
Fresh Air producer John Sheehan discusses The Radio Adventures of Eleanor Amplified, a new comic podcast for kids featuring an intrepid radio reporter who foils plots and outwits crafty villains.
A Tribute To The Late American Composer Eubie Blake
Blake's music is featured in the Broadway revival, Shuffle Along. Our tribute features live performances of his songs and interviews with pianist Dick Hyman, among others. Originally broadcast in '98.
A Personal History Of L.A. Punk: 'It Was A Free-For-All For Outcasts'
John Doe, Exene Cervenka and Dave Alvin of the band X discuss punk's early days. "Anybody could belong to punk that wanted to be there," Cervenka says. Originally broadcast May 2, 2016.
'BFG' Is A 'Delumptious' Pairing Of A Happy Child And A Radiant Old Soul
by David Edelstein
Steven Spielberg's latest movie is an adaptation of Roald Dahl's 1982 children's book about a big friendly giant. Critic David Edelstein says the BFG is "pure joy" — especially in its second half.
Maren Morris Mixes Country, Pop And Hip-Hop On 'Hero'
by Ken Tucker
The singer-songwriter brings a fluid sense of musical boundaries to her first major-label album. Critic Ken Tucker says Hero features "very good, state-of-the-art pop country" music.
Remembering Scotty Moore, Elvis Presley's First Guitarist And Manager
Moore, who died Tuesday at the age of 84, booked gigs for Presley during the early part of the musician's career. He later penned the memoir, That's Alright, Elvis. Originally broadcast in 1997.
Matt Ross Of 'Silicon Valley' Goes Off The Grid With 'Captain Fantastic'
Ross' new film, which he wrote and directed, is about a father living with his six children in the woods of the Pacific Northwest. "The movie is about choices we make, especially as parents," he says.
'They May Not Mean To, But They Do' Is A Sparkling, Sad Family Affair
by Maureen Corrigan
Cathleen Schine's new novel explores how one character's physical and mental decline ripples out to affect his whole family. Critic Maureen Corrigan calls it a mix of "fun and bad behavior."
Jazz Legend Allen Toussaint's Touch And Timing Shine On His Last Record
by Kevin Whitehead
The New Orleans-based musician completed recording his final album a month before he died last November. Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead calls American Tunes a "fond last look" at Toussaint's talent.
How The FBI's Wiretaps And Sting Operation Failed To Stop The Orlando Shooter
New York Times reporter Eric Lichtblau discusses the FBI's investigation of shooter Omar Mateen prior to the Orlando attack, as well as the bureau's broader efforts to pinpoint suspected terrorists.