Ford Focus Ford Focus

'Working Girl' with Esther Zuckerman

Aug 10, 2026 · 48m

Summary

Hosts Keith Phipps and Mike Ryan welcome guest Esther Zuckerman to discuss the 1988 film *Working Girl*. They analyze Harrison Ford’s charming, dorky performance as Jack Trainer, contrasting it with Alec Baldwin’s comedic role and Sigourney Weaver’s villainy. The episode covers the film’s authentic depiction of Staten Island, its 80s corporate themes, and debates whether Ford deserved an Oscar nomination for his iconic shirt-changing scene.

Topics discussed

Introduction and opening song debate Harrison Ford's charm and character analysis The meet-cute and romantic tension Staten Island setting and corporate plot Authenticity of Staten Island depiction Alec Baldwin's role and 1988 filmography Casting history and the movie Perfect Kevin Spacey's casting and corporate themes Harrison Ford's scotch collaboration Joan Cusack's transformation and Alec Baldwin's proposal Alternative casting choices for Tess The ending and Sigourney Weaver's performance Oscar snub and Harrison Ford's acting range The iconic shirt-changing scene Final thoughts and bonus episode announcement
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