Join host Jem Duducu on Condensed Histories as he delves into Amor Towles' novel and its intriguing adaptation 'A Gentleman in Moscow.' Discover the connections to the Russian Revolution, the state of streaming entertainment, and the historical context, all inspired by a request from a listener. Explore the novel's unique premise, its TV adaptation starring Ewan McGregor, and comparisons to Soviet cinema, including the iconic 'Battleship Potemkin.' Learn about historical storytelling, the role o...
Mar 06, 2025•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu explores the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, providing a comprehensive summary of events since the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Jem delves into the complex history dating back to the initial invasion in 2014, examines the current state of frontline warfare, and highlights significant developments such as the use of drone technology, international involvement, and geopolitical implications. This episode offers an in...
Feb 27, 2025•45 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem delves into the history and cultural impact of the beloved video game series Sid Meier's Civilization. He discusses the evolution of the game from its inception in 1991 to the latest installment, Civilization VI, and the anticipated Civilization VII. He explores gameplay mechanics, strategies, and the educational value of the series, highlighting how it brings world history to life by allowing players to lead various civilizations from antiquity to mod...
Feb 20, 2025•44 min•Transcript available on Metacast Join Jem in this episode of Condensed History as he delves into the historical layers underpinning the video game 'Kingdom Come Deliverance 2'. Jem explores the game's unique approach to medieval role-playing, contrasting it with other popular RPGs like Skyrim and The Witcher, and examines how Kingdom Come Deliverance sets itself apart with its commitment to historical accuracy and realism. From discussing the ethos of video games to recounting fascinating historical tales from the medieval king...
Feb 13, 2025•42 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem DuDucu dives deep into the world of Warhammer to discuss its intersection with contemporary culture wars. Jem addresses the challenges and complications faced by large organizations like Games Workshop, as they navigate sensitive issues of inclusivity and representation in their products. From the backlash against diverse depictions in Warhammer to the controversy over female Custodians, and comparisons with other pop culture phenomena like Disney's Th...
Feb 06, 2025•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu delves into Coldplay's 2008 hit 'Viva La Vida' and explores the connections between modern British rock music and historical events, particularly the French Revolution. Discussing Coldplay's rise to fame, the band's unique sound, and the historical themes integrated into their music, Jem not only offers insights into the evolution of the band but also ties it to significant historical revolutions, including insights on the American Revoluti...
Jan 30, 2025•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into Netflix documentary 'Churchill at War', where they do Churchill injustice, and the biggest mark against Churchill that the documentary doesn't mention. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jan 23, 2025•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into some of the history behind the new series of SAS Rogue Heroes, and compares it to the film Six Triple Eight. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jan 16, 2025•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks at the animated film 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim', and the question of protecting copyright! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jan 09, 2025•42 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem concludes his epic journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem continues his journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 17, 2024•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem begins his journey through an entire year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 12, 2024•56 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into the film The Bicycle Theif and the world of Rubble Movies. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 10, 2024•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast Following a suggestion from the Condesed Histories Podcast Facebook Group, Jem takes a look into the history surrounding Bruce Lee! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Dec 05, 2024•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into Soviet Cinema and Alexander Nevsky. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 03, 2024•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem interviews John Bleasdale, author of 'The Magic Hours The Films and Hidden Life of Terence Malick' about the subject of the book, Terence Malick himself! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Nov 28, 2024•44 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into the decisive subject of Prequels, including Better Call Saul and Star Wars! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 26, 2024•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem takes a look into the history of bomb disposal. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 21, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks at Gladiator 2! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 19, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into Russian Radiation through three pieces of popular culture. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 14, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks at the Greatest Action Hero... in real life! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 12, 2024•45 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem concludes his two-part episode on Barry Lyndon! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 07, 2024•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem kicks off a two-part episode on Barry Lyndon! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 05, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem talks about The Terminator, and about Sci-Fi affecting the real world! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 31, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem talks Dragons! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 29, 2024•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast Big Brother is watching Jem as he records an episode on George Orwell's Nineteen-Eighty-Four. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 24, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks at the film Network. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 22, 2024•35 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem discusses a hugely influential and important piece of pop culture which many of our listeners may never have heard of! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Oct 17, 2024•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into the question of whether Cinema has reached it's end time... Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 15, 2024•43 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jem looks into a curious quirk of the English language. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 10, 2024•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
