History & Criticism

In 1991, a new comedy hit British screens and, at first glance, it was just another sofa-based sitcom. Soon, it became clear Bottom was a masterpiece. Mixing cartoon-style slapstick, knob gags and Beckettian nihilism, it left an indelible mark on British comedy. Written by and starring comedy legends Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson as reprobates Richard Richard and Edward Hitler, their depraved universe unfolded over three chaotic BBC TV series, five explosive live shows and a formidable feature film.

Ferris Bueller… You’re My Hero is the definitive behind-the-scenes look at one of the most beloved comedies of all time: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Author Jason Klamm takes listeners inside John Hughes’ creative hot streak—fresh off Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club—as teen angst gave way to slapstick humor, surreal storytelling, and a hero who knew exactly where the camera was.

"Remembering Roots highlights the indomitability of the human spirit; and reminds us that, like our ancestors, as long as we continue to breathe, there's hope."—LEVAR BURTON, award-winning actor, director, author, and original cast member of Roots Discover how the book and TV miniseries Roots...

From the single ladies of Beyoncé and Taylor Swift songs to Phoebe Waller-Bridge's irreverent television series Fleabag (2016–2019) to as far back as Miss Havisham in Great Expectations, the stereotype of the damaged single woman has long pervaded music, books, television, and Hollywood movies.

As featured in Pitchfork, Empire, Nerdist, NPR, The A.V. Club, Mashable, IGN, SFX, and more! Following his underground hit Eraserhead and critically acclaimed The Elephant Man, visionary filmmaker David Lynch set his sights on bringing Frank Herbert’s beloved sci-fi novel Dune to the screen. The project had already vexed directors such as Alejandro Jodorowsky (El Topo) and Ridley Scott (Alien).