Published Jan 4, 2019

Adam McKay on ‘Vice,’ Power, Comedy, and Criticism | Interview (Ep. 114)

Sean Fennessey interviews Adam McKay, who delves into the power dynamics explored in his film 'Vice,' the complex relationships between political figures like Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld, and the challenges he faced during filmmaking, from creative hurdles to personal health battles.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Episode Highlights

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Adam McKay on ‘Vice,’ Power, Comedy, and Criticism | Interview (Ep. 114)

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Editing Insights

Cheney's Complex Legacy

Embracing Controversy

Long-Term Power Dynamics

Political Reflections

Frantic Filmmaking

Understanding Power Dynamics

Power and Criticism

Political Manipulation Revealed

Portrait of Power

Directing Dreams

Male Relationships Explored

Bold Filmmaking Choices

Portrayal of Power

Episode Highlights

Power Dynamics

Complex Male Relationships

Filmmaking Challenges

Related Episodes

The ‘Vice’ Backlash and the Oprah Bounce | The Oscars Show (Ep. 112)

Passing Time With Richard Linklater | The Big Picture (Ep. 33)

The Rise of Alex Ross Perry: From the Art House to the Mouse House | The Big Picture (Ep. 48)

Interview With ‘20th Century Women’ Director Mike Mills | The Big Picture (Ep. 2)

The Leonardo DiCaprio Hall of Fame and ‘Don’t Look Up’ With Adam McKay

Life and Death in the American West With ‘Lean on Pete’ Director Andrew Haigh | The Big Picture (Ep. 58)

The Ridley Scott Hall of Fame. Plus: Errol Morris!

The Best Movie of 2021 So Far, and a Chuck Klosterman Theory of Film

Best Picture Power Rankings and a ‘Poor Things’ Deep Dive. Plus: Julianne Moore and Todd Haynes!

Best Picture Power Rankings and the Winners and Losers of Movies in 2024. Plus: ‘Superman’ Is Here.

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The Eddie Murphy Hall of Fame. Plus: Mads Mikkelsen!

The Movie Star Playbook: Adam Driver Edition. Plus: Did the Superhero Era Just Die?

'The Oath’ and Ike Barinholtz’s Response to the Chaotic News Cycle | The Big Picture (Ep. 88)

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Adam McKay on ‘Vice,’ Power, Comedy, and Criticism | Interview (Ep. 114)

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Power DynamicsAdam McKay examines the intricate web of political influence and the evolution of lobbying and think tanks over the past 50 years. He highlights how these forces have shaped today's power dynamics, emphasizing the importance of understanding their historical roots.

Power Dynamics

Complex Male RelationshipsAdam McKay explores the intricate and often humorous relationship between Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld in his film "Vice." Through anecdotes and personal insights, McKay highlights the mentorship and dynamic interactions that defined their bond.

Complex Male Relationships

Filmmaking ChallengesAdam McKay discusses the creative and personal challenges faced while making 'Vice,' a film that reflects the turbulent times and complex legacy of Dick Cheney. He shares insights into his bold filmmaking choices and the health issues he encountered during production.

Filmmaking Challenges

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