S03E10: Rootless Cosmopolitans: Theatre Amidst Turmoil

**Host:** Alex First
**Guest Critics:** Jackie Hammerton, Peter Krauss, Greg King
**Episode Summary:**
In this compelling episode, host Alex First is joined by critics Jackie Hammerton, Peter Krauss, and Greg King to discuss a variety of topics spanning theatre and film. The episode kicks off with a special interview with playwright Ron Elisha, whose new play "Rootless Cosmopolitans" is currently showing at Chapel Off Chapel. The conversation then shifts to a review of the latest blockbuster, "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," and concludes with a critique of "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes." The critics provide a balanced mix of praise and constructive criticism, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on each work.
**Highlights:**
- **Rootless Cosmopolitans:** Playwright Ron Elisha discusses his timely and thought-provoking new play, which delves into the complexities of anti-Semitism in today's world. The critics praise the play's blend of humour and serious subject matter, emphasizing its relevance and engaging narrative.
- **Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga:** A visually stunning prequel to "Mad Max: Fury Road." While Alex First praises its spectacle and action sequences, Peter Krauss and Jackie Hammerton express concerns about its lack of depth and narrative coherence. Greg King offers a balanced view, appreciating the film's technical achievements while noting its shortcomings.
- **Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes:** The latest instalment in the "Planet of the Apes" franchise receives mixed reviews. While the critics commend its special effects and production design, they find its story lacking and overly long. The film's emotional impact and character development are also points of contention.
(00:00) Jackie Hammerton joins us to discuss film and entertainment
(00:12) Gregory King was away for six weeks exploring South America
(01:11) Peter Krause says he's heading to Paris later this year
(01:30) Ron Elisha has a new play called rootless cosmopolitans
(05:36) How much of the play was rewritten after or since October 7 attack
(06:22) Do you see this play as being entertainment as well as education
(12:17) Anton Berezin is very, very strong in this play
(13:03) Tell us about the term rootless cosmopolitans
(15:48) Ron, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us
(17:26) Peter Bennett says anti-Semitic bullying at Melbourne University is deeply disturbing
(18:28) Peter Howell: Furiosa looks amazing, and it's brilliantly shot
(20:27) Furiosa is a strident revenge thriller starring Chris Hemsworth
(23:00) I thought Anya Taylor Joy was really powerful in Furiosa
(23:55) Tom Burke plays Furiosa's running mate Jack in Mad Max
(24:27) Peter Krauss: I was not as impressed with this film as you were
(25:45) Greg says the 148 minute running time is too generous for this film
(28:42) Jackie: I found Chris Hemsworth's character kind of weird
(34:28) Peter Furioso gives Mad Max saga a mixed review
(35:57) Jackie says the film is too long, but still entertained
(39:00) Gregory King: Maybe we should rate movies based on ape score
(40:09) This sequel takes place several generations after the great ape Caesar passed away
(44:13) Gregory King: I thought Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes was interesting
(46:13) Greg says the film was bloated and looked good overall
(50:04) We're going to go scores here, uh, starting with Peter
**Closing Note:**
This episode of First on Film and Entertainment offers a rich tapestry of discussions, from the poignant themes of anti-Semitism in "Rootless Cosmopolitans" to the high-octane action of "Furiosa" and the visual spectacle of "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes." The critics navigate through the complexities of each work, providing listeners with insightful and thought-provoking commentary. Join us next time for another round of in-depth reviews and engaging conversations.
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