What are the best thrillers of the 21st century? Plus, FilmOut and weekend arts episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 13, 2026 · 45 MIN

What are the best thrillers of the 21st century? Plus, FilmOut and weekend arts

from KPBS Midday Edition

There’s nothing like a good book that keeps you at the edge of your seat.The New York Times Book Review recently put out a list of the 50 best thrillers of the 21st century — all voted on by devotees of the genre.Thursday on Midday Edition, we talk about the list, what makes a great thriller and why people are drawn to the genre today.Then, FilmOut, San Diego’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival, returns next week. KPBS arts reporter and horror aficionado Beth Accomando spoke with two horror filmmakers presenting at the festival.And finally, it's a busy weekend in the arts. KPBS Julia Dixon Evans shares her top recommendations for getting your culture fix without breaking the bank.Guests:Tina Jordan, deputy editor, New York Times Book ReviewMichael Varrati, producer, "Scorch Marks"Brendan Haley, writer-director, "Scorch Marks"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest" podcast, KPBSLinks:"Let’s Talk About the 50 Best Thrillers of the 21st Century" — New York Times Book Review podcast

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What are the best thrillers of the 21st century? Plus, FilmOut and weekend arts

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