When asked to distill a documentary's worth, Marshall Curry takes a nuanced approach: "There are stories that make great articles, but they're not movies." This philosophy guides his latest project, The New Yorker at 100, a new Netflix film exploring the magazine's storied history and enduring relevance.
A year-long immersion into the magazine's archives, Curry's film offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of an institution that has maintained its editorial independence despite the shifting media landscape. From David Remnick's leadership to the rise of prominent contributors like Julianne Moore, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Sarah Jessica Parker, the documentary showcases the New Yorker's commitment to high-quality journalism.
Curry's approach reveals a magazine that is as much about curiosity-driven storytelling as it is about authoritative reporting. With expertly crafted profiles, investigations, and cultural observations, The New Yorker has long established itself as an essential publication. From Truman Capote's groundbreaking In Cold Blood to its rigorous fact-checking department, the film highlights the magazine's dedication to quality over quantity.
Yet, as Curry notes, concerns about the magazine's future persist. With David Remnick set to step down and a protracted collective bargaining fight with Condรฉ Nast, some worry that The New Yorker may become a relic of the past. However, Curry believes in the magazine's unique approach: "They're making handmade, exquisitely crafted sushi for two seatings a night... They're not trying to be McDonald's and sell billions and billions of hamburgers to everybody in the world."
Ultimately, The New Yorker at 100 serves as a testament to the power of sustained editorial excellence. With its meticulously researched storytelling and dedication to high-quality journalism, this iconic magazine remains a vital force in contemporary culture.
A year-long immersion into the magazine's archives, Curry's film offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of an institution that has maintained its editorial independence despite the shifting media landscape. From David Remnick's leadership to the rise of prominent contributors like Julianne Moore, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Sarah Jessica Parker, the documentary showcases the New Yorker's commitment to high-quality journalism.
Curry's approach reveals a magazine that is as much about curiosity-driven storytelling as it is about authoritative reporting. With expertly crafted profiles, investigations, and cultural observations, The New Yorker has long established itself as an essential publication. From Truman Capote's groundbreaking In Cold Blood to its rigorous fact-checking department, the film highlights the magazine's dedication to quality over quantity.
Yet, as Curry notes, concerns about the magazine's future persist. With David Remnick set to step down and a protracted collective bargaining fight with Condรฉ Nast, some worry that The New Yorker may become a relic of the past. However, Curry believes in the magazine's unique approach: "They're making handmade, exquisitely crafted sushi for two seatings a night... They're not trying to be McDonald's and sell billions and billions of hamburgers to everybody in the world."
Ultimately, The New Yorker at 100 serves as a testament to the power of sustained editorial excellence. With its meticulously researched storytelling and dedication to high-quality journalism, this iconic magazine remains a vital force in contemporary culture.