The CBS Sunday Morning broadcast on January 5, 2025, hosted by Lee Cowan, featured various segments capturing the intersection of art, culture, and human interest stories. The cover story focused on the rising popularity of live orchestral performances accompanying film screenings, explored through correspondent David Pogue’s visit to the New York Philharmonic’s presentation of the iconic film "Jaws."
These live renditions are not merely concerts but experiential events. Deborah Borda, the former acting CEO of the New York Philharmonic, highlighted the unique nature of these performances: "A live orchestra absolutely reaches people in a way... it's like you're sitting in the middle of the orchestra." These events attract new audiences, with nearly 50% of attendees experiencing the symphony for the first time.
Conducting for such shows presents its own challenges. Anthony Parnther, who conducted the performance, remarked, "Every seat is filled," underlining the crowd-pleasing nature of these concerts. Parnther explained how the orchestration is timed with visual cues known as streamers, which provide the timing required for the musicians to synchronize perfectly with the film's score.
This synergy between film and live music recalls the days of silent films where music was integral to storytelling. Co-founder of Film Concerts Live, Steve Linder, noted, “What we do is we bring moviegoing back to what it was originally intended to be, with live music, and in a communal experience.” With over 1,000 live-orchestra film screenings taking place annually, classics like "Jurassic Park" and "Harry Potter" continue to engage audiences.
Meanwhile, Susan Spencer introduced viewers to child prodigy Suborno Bari, who has captivated many with his intellect and precocity, giving university-level lectures since age 7. Attending New York University, Bari's prowess extends to math and physics, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities of children with such talents. Spencer interviewed experts shedding light on the psychology and characteristics of child prodigies, enriching the narrative with insights on exceptional abilities.
Transitioning to the world of cinema, Seth Doane interviewed Academy Award-winning actress Tilda Swinton about her latest role in Pedro Almodóvar’s film "The Room Next Door." Swinton discussed her connection with the director and the themes of the film centered on terminal illness and autonomy, highlighting her early influences from director Derek Jarman. This deep-seated connection to cinema and fashion echoed her lifelong commitment to storytelling.
Continuing with the theme of migration and resilience, Tracy Smith offered insight on Adrien Brody's character, László Toth, from his film "The Brutalist." Brody reflected on the parallels between his own family history and Toth’s experiences during World War II, providing viewers with powerful narratives rooted in human experiences of survival and reinvention after trauma.
The episode also showcased artist Bugsy Sailor, known for his breathtaking sunrise photographs from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Over the past six years, Sailor has documented the beauty of each dawn, creating an online following as he shares the myriad colors and textures of the rising sun. Correspondent Faith Salie captured Sailor’s passion and determination to continue this project, urging viewers to appreciate the natural beauty around them.
To wrap up the episode, Rita Braver honored the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. Braver's tribute reflected on Carter’s remarkable life, from his presidency, marked by significant political challenges and achievements, to his humanitarian efforts post-presidency. Conversations with his son Chip and biographers, including Jonathan Alter, shed light on Carter’s unwavering dedication to service, reinforcing the impact of his lifetime of work.
With segments capturing music, art, and historic legacies, CBS Sunday Morning’s January 5 episode encouraged viewers to engage with the beauty of creativity and the power of compassion well beyond the television screen, promising more enriching stories next week.