The New Yorker at 100 – A Century of Influence and Inside Stories
Marshall Curry’s The New Yorker at 100 is more than just a documentary — it’s a vibrant, behind-the-scenes exploration of one of the most distinguished publications in American history. Narrated by Julianne Moore, this 96-minute film pays tribute not only to the magazine’s century-long legacy but also to its unique blend of intellectual rigor, aesthetic beauty, and journalistic excellence.
The documentary skillfully charts The New Yorker’s evolution from its 1920s origins to its present-day role as a cultural touchstone. Through intimate glimpses into the editorial process — such as the weekly cartoon selection ritual, where a thousand submissions are narrowed down to a handful of winners — the audience experiences the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each issue.
Editor David Remnick, who has led the publication since 1998, emerges as a central figure. The film portrays his combination of approachable leadership and uncompromising editorial standards, revealing why his team strives to meet what he considers a “Platonic ideal of quality.” His passion is palpable, whether he’s describing the joy of starting his day or sharing personal experiences that have shaped his worldview.
Curry’s lens also captures landmark moments that solidified the magazine’s influence on journalism. From John Hersey’s groundbreaking “Hiroshima” issue to Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” environmental exposé, James Baldwin’s stirring essays on race, and Truman Capote’s genre-defining In Cold Blood, the documentary underscores how The New Yorker has repeatedly shifted public discourse.
The film doesn’t shy away from highlighting the magazine’s cultural duality — simultaneously steeped in tradition and responsive to contemporary currents. It portrays The New Yorker as a publication that values precision, elegance, and depth, yet also embraces humor and spontaneity. Celebrity interviews with Jon Hamm, Molly Ringwald, Ronny Chieng, and Jesse Eisenberg add personal touchstones, illustrating the ways the magazine has touched individual lives.
While the omission of certain iconic contributors, such as Pauline Kael, may surprise some viewers, the film remains an absorbing celebration of the magazine’s enduring relevance. In an era where fragmented digital media often overwhelms audiences, The New Yorker continues to stand apart — refined, thoughtful, and “above the fray.”
A century on, the documentary poses a subtle question: can such a civilized publication thrive in an increasingly chaotic world? Judging by the energy and reverence captured here, the answer feels like a resounding yes.
The New Yorker at 100 is streaming on Netflix.
