John Wilson and “The History of Concrete”
Summary
John Wilson discusses his new documentary, *The History of Concrete*, with New Yorker staff writer Andrew Morantz. Wilson explains how he used the formula of Hallmark movies as a creative springboard to explore the absurdity of making a comedy about a mundane material. The film investigates the environmental impact of concrete and the political tensions between NIMBY and YIMBY housing advocates. Wilson also shares details about his new indie theater, Low Cinema, in Queens, which serves as a community hub for genre films and local culture.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to The New Yorker Radio Hour
John Wilson's background and his new theater, Low Cinema
Origin of the title 'The History of Concrete'
Transition from HBO series to feature filmmaking
Learning the Hallmark movie formula
The role of aspiration and escapism in Hallmark films
Challenges of pitching a documentary about concrete
Creating a sizzle reel and navigating the industry
Conclusion of the first interview segment
Sponsor: You Might Be Right podcast
Sponsor: Monarch personal finance app
Sponsor: Wayfair home goods
Sponsor: New York Community Trust
Balancing factual research with comedic discovery
Political themes: climate change and concrete's impact
The absurdity of an anti-concrete political stance
NIMBY vs YIMBY: Housing tensions in the film
Life at Low Cinema: neighborhood hangout culture
Film release date and closing credits
Sponsor: New York Philharmonic concerts
Listen ad-free on Castria