The podcast episodes provided examine how acting styles have evolved over time, from the exaggerated, cartoonish performances common in 1980s films like "The Ghosts of Buxley Hall" to the more restrained, naturalistic approach favored by certain 19th century British actors like William Macready, whose rivalry with the more flamboyant American actor Edwin Forrest sparked the deadly Astor Place Riot.
These contrasting acting styles reflect the cultural and class tensions of their respective eras, as well as the changing demands and preferences of audiences and critics.