Jo and Rob return to break down the seventh episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the aftermath of Saeki’s betrayal, how Nagakado’s fate is a major departure from the book, and the many question marks surrounding Toranaga’s plan (or lack thereof). Along the way, they talk about the increasingly complicated dynamic between Mariko and Buntaro. Later, they consider whether or not “Crimson Sky” is just one big misdirection. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn more about your...
Apr 02, 2024•54 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the sixth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the effective use of flashbacks in this episode, the theatrics behind Toranaga’s political maneuvering, and how the show deftly deploys violence. Along the way, they talk about the growing jealousy that revolves around Blackthorne. Later, they’re joined by ‘Shogun’ series cocreators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo to talk about making sure the humor from the novel translated from the page to the screen, the power of Fuji’s...
Mar 26, 2024•2 hr 37 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Tim Simons and Matt Walsh to discuss a handful of series finales from shows that represent the weird era of ’80s television including ‘St. Elsewhere,’ ‘Newhart,’ ‘ALF,’ ‘Sledge Hammer!,’ ‘Dallas,’ and ‘Dinosaurs.’ They start by talking about their first experiences with finales, how the final episodes of this decade’s shows seemed to both be in conversation and in competition with one another, and the reasons why TV was much more playful during this time (5:07). Along...
Mar 20, 2024•2 hr 47 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the fifth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the multiple meanings behind the episode’s title, “Broken to the Fist,” the implications of Buntaro’s return, and Toranaga’s schemes within schemes. Along the way, they talk about Moeka Hoshi’s nuanced performance as Fuji and how Yabushige got played. Later, they briefly look ahead at what Lady Ochiba’s menacing arrival could mean for the back half of the season. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady...
Mar 19, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Chris Ryan to discuss “Chapter 29,” the series finale of ‘Eastbound & Down.’ They open by talking about Danny McBride’s uncut style of comedy, why the HBO series warrants an extended conversation including but not limited to its comic hijinks, and how the creative team behind the show has since evolved (2:26). Along the way, they discuss its never-ending list of perfect guest stars, and the gradual character development of Kenny Powers (18:53). Later, they explain how...
Mar 13, 2024•1 hr 9 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the fourth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the quiet brilliance of the moments between the action and conversations, the concept of the Eightfold Fence, and Fuji's much more prominent role in the story. Along the way, they talk about how Omi manipulated Toranaga’s failson, Nagakado, to make a significant mistake. Later, they highlight why the gory visuals from the end of the episode were compelling. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Lear...
Mar 12, 2024•56 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss “Beyond Life and Death,” the series finale of ‘Twin Peaks.’ Andy starts by talking about how the theorizing around the show made him fall in love with television, before they discuss the unlikely pairing between David Lynch and ABC, and how the mystery crime drama benefited from being helmed by two very different co-creators (4:34). Along the way, they unpack Lynch’s staunch refusal to reveal any meaning behind the story, the finale itself, ...
Mar 06, 2024•2 hr 48 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the third episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the contrast between the show’s use of digital effects and its production design, what Toranaga’s clever getaway plan reveals about his character, and the bubbling connection between Mariko and Blackthorne. Along the way, they talk about the action-heavy escape in the Osaka sequence and how it differs from the book. Later, they close by unpacking the stalemate between the Council of Regents upon Toranaga’s sudden departu...
Mar 05, 2024•59 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Bill Simmons to discuss “Flip,” the series finale of ‘The Larry Sanders Show.’ They start by talking about why it’s one of HBO’s most underrated shows, why Garry Shandling was the perfect fit for the lead role, and how the ’90s comedy blurred the lines between fiction and reality (2:00). Along the way, they discuss the ways in which it was a tortured production behind the scenes and how it influenced the next wave of workplace sitcoms (25:25). Later, they break down t...
Feb 28, 2024•2 hr 47 min
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite to break down the two-episode premiere of FX’s new series ‘Shogun.’ They open by unpacking the premise of the historical epic, its early adaptation choices, and its ties to the James Clavell novel of the same name. Next, they discuss the introduction of the show’s trio of main characters (John Blackthorne, Yoshii Toranaga, and Toda Mariko), their respective positions in the story so far, and the ensuing power struggle among the Council of Regents. Later, t...
Feb 27, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Mina Kimes to discuss “The Book of Nora,” the series finale of ‘The Leftovers.’ They explain what attracted them to the HBO drama in the first place and their subsequent desire to convince others to watch it (2:32). Next, they unpack the central theme of the series, how it’s deftly revealed over the course of just 28 episodes, and the show's unique ability to reinvent itself for the better season after season (23:07). Later, they talk about the final episode’s tone, w...
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 26 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the season finale of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They discuss their thoughts on both the final episode and the season as a whole, why Pete’s story feels unfinished, and how the big reveals land. Along the way, they talk through some of the show’s lingering questions and debate the various meanings (or lack thereof) behind the season’s recurring iconography. Later, in anticipation of the two-episode series premiere of Shōgun, they take a brief look ahead at th...
Feb 20, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss “Discos and Dragons,” the series finale of ‘Freaks and Geeks.’ They open by talking about the show’s cultlike following, all of its famous alumni, and how NBC didn’t understand how to treat it (3:10). Next, they break down the reasons for its premature ending and why its short life span contributed to its prolonged impact (56:36). Later, they share their feelings on a potential ‘Freaks and Geeks’ reunion down the line (74:08). Finally, they ...
Feb 14, 2024•1 hr 22 min
Charles and Jo give their thoughts on Donald Glover’s new spy comedy/drama on Prime Video, ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith,’ a reformulation of the iconic 2005 movie starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. They talk about Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s previous involvement in the show, Glover’s identity as an artist, and what they thought worked and didn’t work about the series. Hosts: Charles Holmes and Joanna Robinson Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Feb 13, 2024•57 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the fifth episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They discuss the whereabouts of Raymond Clark, potential connections to ‘The Odyssey,’ and whether or not Rose is a ghost. Next, they talk about the gut-wrenching turn of events between Pete and Hank and the ripple effect of the intense showdown. Later, they walk through how the vast conspiracy at the heart of the story unravels in the penultimate episode. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Gr...
Feb 13, 2024•1 hr 12 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Amanda Dobbins to discuss “Latching,” the series finale of ‘Girls.’ They start by providing context on the media environment at the time when the HBO comedy series premiered and how it was a bridge between the eras of network television and prestige cable TV (10:57). Along the way, they discuss what the show originally set out to do, the benefits (and drawbacks) of creator Lena Dunham’s unparalleled self-awareness, and how ‘Girls’ ended its six-season run with intent ...
Feb 07, 2024•2 hr 33 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the fourth episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They discuss a roundup of the show’s recurring themes, including its continued use of teal, deepening connection to Sedna the sea goddess, and significant expansion of supernatural horror compared to seasons past. Along the way, they talk about some of this season’s inconsistent storytelling and why the shortened six-episode season has been somewhat damaging to the overall narrative. Later, they theorize about...
Feb 06, 2024•1 hr 23 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Rembert Browne to discuss “Finale,” the series finale of ‘The Office.’ They open by describing their relationships with the beloved NBC sitcom and how impressive it is that ‘The Office’ has remained a centerpiece of popular culture so many years after it finished its run (3:58). Along the way, the two explain how the show “ended” multiple times throughout its nine seasons (21:12). Later, they talk about their complicated feelings regarding the final episode and how it...
Jan 31, 2024•1 hr 18 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the third episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They discuss the vast use of teal and what it might symbolize, why the flashback sequences are so effective, and Danvers’s (at times misguided) maternal instincts. Along the way, they talk about Hank’s ongoing suspiciousness and Navarro opening up for the first time. Later, they highlight some of the show’s most significant unanswered questions. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn m...
Jan 30, 2024•1 hr 17 min
Two episodes into ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ Charles and Van dive into their theories about who could be the killer, how the polar bear figures into the mystery, and more. Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan Producers: Steve Ahlman and Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 26, 2024•30 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the second episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They answer a handful of listener emails and discuss the many connections to Season 1 that popped up in this episode and the complicated dynamics of the tight-knit Ennis community. Along the way, they talk about the unlikely similarities between Danvers and Navarro in how they handle their respective relationships. Later, they dive into theory corner to investigate the most pressing clues heading into next wee...
Jan 24, 2024•1 hr 18 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Sean Fennessey to discuss “Person to Person,” the series finale of ‘Mad Men.’ They start by describing what the surrounding culture was like and who they were as people when it initially aired (5:03). Next, Andy reveals that his opinion of the final episode has altered, then details what led to the change of heart (16:00). Along the way, the two talk about how the AMC hit drama decided to handle Don Draper’s send-off and the ways in which it broke so many TV norms in ...
Jan 24, 2024•1 hr 23 min
Andy Greenwald is joined by Mallory Rubin to discuss “Always,” the series finale of ‘Friday Night Lights.’ They open by setting the scene, providing background info on the show itself, and contextualizing the TV landscape that it was released in (3:43). Next, they discuss the stakes of, instant reactions to, and various criticisms of the final episode (25:33). Along the way, the two talk about the finale’s legacy and how it’s aged for them personally (80:39). Finally, they answer the titular que...
Jan 17, 2024•2 hr 44 min
Jo and Rob break down the ‘Fargo’ Season 5 finale. They discuss their personal feelings on the final episode, how the characters of Indira Olmstead and Witt Farr fall flat in the end, and the conclusion to Gator’s redemption arc. Along the way, they briefly talk about the intense prison scene between Lorraine and Roy. Later, they’re joined by the creator and showrunner of ‘Fargo,’ Noah Hawley, to talk about how this season grapples with the symptoms of a divided America, the final confrontation ...
Jan 17, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite to break down the premiere of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They open by unpacking the lasting cultural impact of the first season 10 years later and how the fourth season of the beloved HBO drama differs this time around. Next, they discuss the eerie Alaskan setting, the many strained relationships between the characters, and the supernatural elements of the story so far. Later, they close by investigating a series of significant clues and early theori...
Jan 16, 2024•2 hr 33 min
Sean and Jo return to break down the Season 1 finale of ‘The Curse.’ They discuss the extremely bold conclusion, whether or not the final episode has a deeper meaning beneath it, and the subsequent provocation of critics and viewers alike. Along the way, they debate whether Asher was actually cursed and his final attempt to win over Whitney’s approval. Later, they talk through similarities (and differences) between the Showtime series and ‘Twin Peaks.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Joanna Robinson P...
Jan 12, 2024•57 min
Did Don Draper really buy the world a Coke? Did Tony Soprano really die (or just order more onion rings)? Were those guys really in hell the whole time—or was that just the audience? Hosted by Andy Greenwald, 'Stick the Landing' is a new podcast that revisits iconic season finales from the past to see what they might tell us about our TV-watching future. Each episode will feature a different guest to revisit finales from shows such as 'Friday Night Lights,' 'Freaks and Geeks,' and 'The Office' a...
Jan 10, 2024•1 min
Jo and Rob are back to break down the ninth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5 and talk about what they’re hoping to see in the season finale. They head to Coen Corner to parse the Coen references in this episode, and go through listener emails regarding the truth of the phrase “fruit of the poisonous tree,” Russian election scams, Oregonian anarchists, and more. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producers: Sasha Ashall and Kai Grady Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adcho...
Jan 10, 2024•54 min
Sean and Jo convene before the finale of Nathan Fielder’s cringe dramedy ‘The Curse’ to sift through the many ideas about performance of the self, gentrification, reality television, marriage, art, and more in Episodes 6-9. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Joanna Robinson Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 08, 2024•54 min
Jo and Rob are back to break down the eighth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They open by reading through a handful of listener emails on how this season is depicting the Midwest and its culture. Next, they discuss the rise and fall of Danish Graves, the likelihood of an effective Gator redemption arc, and Roy Tillman’s viciousness. Along the way, they revisit this season’s themes of debt and the characters’ constructed realities. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn mor...
Jan 03, 2024•1 hr
