Paul Recommends June: Misfits, Mystics, and Microphones
The smartest things I’ve read and heard lately (but not too precious)
I like stuff…here’s some of the stuff I’ve recently liked.
Larry Charles – Comedy Samurai
You might not know Larry Charles by name, but he’s been involved in some of the best comedy for the last 40 years, from Seinfeld to A24’s Dicks. His new memoir breaks down each project so candidly that it feels like you are at a private dinner with him as he dissects his career.
Larry came on HDTGM’s Last Looks, and here’s a little tease of our full interview where he talks about working on a comedy film with Bob Dylan.
Listen to the full episode this Friday, June 20th
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Jon Ronson – Things Fell Apart
Where did the culture wars really start? With a misunderstood satire book, a small-town preacher, or a satanic daycare panic? Jon Ronson traces today’s outrage ecosystem back to the weirdest, most human beginnings. I can’t stop listening; each episode is a quick-bite documentary that you don't want to end
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Nathan Rabin’s Happy Place Substack
Nobody writes about pop culture with more heart and perspective. From “My Year of Flops” to his deep dives on Weird Al, Phish, and forgotten Oscar bait, Nathan mixes obsession, disappointment, and joy like no one else. If you miss classic AV Club, this fills the void.
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Yes, Also - Suzi Barrett
If you’ve ever done improv Suzi’s podcast is required listening. It’s part improv history, part performance philosophy, and all deeply personal. It’s a one-of-a-kind show. Great for performers, writers, and comedy nerds alike.
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DO YOU LIKE THE MOVIES?
I know I’m biased, but I’ve been building this substack that goes deep into your favorite movies. There are deleted scenes from the podcast, video clips we found in our research, plus fun stuff like pictures of George Clooney at the TOMMY BOY premiere. (It’s also totally free)
Check out this deleted scene from JOHN WICK Ep with the ACTION BOYZ where we discuss the similarities between Top Gun: Maverick and Iron Eagle 2
Got a rec for me? Hit reply
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I read this as Paul Recommends June, and I was like, yeah, this is a guy who loves his wife.
I own The Weird Accordian To Al by Nathan Rabin. Nathan analyzes all of Weird Al's songs. The book is really good