“The Invite” Or, Who’s Afraid Of Olivia Wilde? (With Emily Gould)
Jul 30, 2026 · 1h 35m
Summary
Hosts Richard Lawson and Allison Wilmer are joined by Emily Gould to discuss Olivia Wilde’s film *The Invite*. They analyze the movie’s depiction of two couples navigating awkward social dynamics and non-monogamy, praising the performances and direction while critiquing the characters' unrealistic wealth. The group also shares personal anecdotes about attending *Les Misérables* and debating the film’s cultural relevance.
Topics discussed
Introduction and podcast format overview
The Invite: Non-monogamy, dinner party dynamics, and social testing
Olivia Wilde's performance and character analysis
The Invite's source material and San Francisco housing reality
Directing style, Olivia Wilde's rage, and economic nitpicks
Seth Rogen and Edward Norton's character dynamics
Penelope Cruz's monologue and Esther Perel influence
Spoiler discussion: The sex scene and relationship resolutions
Psychosomatic back pain and the Sarno method
Olivia Wilde's biography, career, and public image
Recommendations: The Regime, Public Access Afterworld, and The Shrink Next Door
Review of the show Adults and episode wrap-up
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