Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker go back to the courtroom and recap ‘The Jinx: Part Two’ finale. They start by discussing how Season 1 concluded with one of the most shocking endings ever, how true crime has progressed as a genre and since exploded into mainstream popularity between seasons, and why the opening scene is the most powerful moment in ‘Part Two’ (1:43). Next, they unpack how the return of the HBO docuseries differs from the initial run of episodes and what worked (and didn’t) across th...
May 28, 2024•59 min
Bill and Juliet get together to analyze and celebrate the two-part conclusion to Season 4 of ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ on its 30th anniversary. They begin by sharing their insights into the most pivotal episodes throughout Brenda and Brandon’s season-long MVP run before breaking down the tumultuous Mardi Gras finale in full. Hosts: Bill Simmons and Juliet Litman Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Video: Stefano Sanchez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit pod...
May 24, 2024•1 hr 15 min
Charles Holmes and Logan Murdock go back to school and recap ‘Abbott Elementary’ Season 3. They start by debating whether or not the ABC sitcom should be considered “prestige,” before outlining a broad overview of Season 3 as a whole and its familiar—yet effective—storytelling structure (1:47). Along the way, they discuss the impact of a condensed season and why the love triangle between Janine, Gregory, and Manny suffered because of it (10:05). Later, they break down why the finale was such a s...
May 23, 2024•55 min
Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell put on their best ballgowns and recap the first four episodes of ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3. They start by unpacking what is (and isn’t) working with the Netflix show’s new central couple, why Colin is a bit lacking as a leading man, and the complicated friends-turned-lovers dynamic between him and Penelope (4:02). Along the way, they discuss how the side plots are much more fleshed out this time around and highlight a few of the fun needle drops (Pitbull?!) so far ...
May 21, 2024•58 min
Van and Wos come together to revisit the iconic ‘Sopranos’ episode, “Long Term Parking.” They discuss the legacy of the episode, the impact ‘The Sopranos’ had on TV, and the most shocking character deaths in the series. Hosts: Wosny Lambre and Van Lathan Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
May 17, 2024•47 min
Joanna Robinson and Craig Horlbeck take center stage to roast each other and recap the first four episodes of ‘Hacks’ Season 3. They open by sharing their personal relationships with the Max comedy and discussing why it’s such a smart concept, before likening it to another iconic HBO show (4:18). Along the way, they reveal their favorite episode of the entire series (so far), and talk about what makes stand-up so difficult to capture on screen (11:14). Later, they compare and contrast “The Roast...
May 14, 2024•46 min
Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker debate the merits of Netflix’s newest hit, 'Baby Reindeer,' in which a struggling comedian is made to deal with both a female stalker and his own dark past. They examine just how the show subverted viewer expectations, the way it leaned into (and away from) the true crime angle, and its brave portrayal of trauma. Hosts: Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker Producer: Devon Baroldi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
May 02, 2024•52 min
Joanna is first joined by ‘Shogun’ cocreator Rachel Kondo and writer Caillin Puente to discuss writing the penultimate episode, Mariko’s fate, making Ochiba a more layered character than her book counterpart, why they decided to cut out the heir’s parentage as a plot point for the story, how Nagakado’s death came to fruition, and much more. Next, ‘Shogun’ writers Emily Yoshida and Maegan Houang talk to Jo about penning the script for the finale, the elderly Blackthorne sequences, what the final ...
Apr 24, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the ‘Shogun’ finale. They discuss the surprising restraint throughout the final episode, their feelings about the show as a whole, and the revelation behind Toranaga’s true intentions. Along the way, they talk about the placement of Blackthorne’s seppuku moment and the beautiful subtlety of Ochiba’s poetry. Later, they unpack the ways in which the television adaptation surpassed the original work. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn mo...
Apr 23, 2024•55 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the ninth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss Anna Sawai’s impressive performance, Mariko’s intense standoff at the castle gates, and how the show has been gradually building up to “Crimson Sky.” Along the way, they talk about Ochiba pulling the strings behind the scenes and her emotional interaction with Mariko. Later, they unpack the outcome of various main characters in the penultimate episode’s shocking final scene. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Produce...
Apr 16, 2024•1 hr 21 min
Jo and Rob return to break down the eighth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the grand introduction of Edo, the emotionally crushing tea room exchange between Mariko and Buntaro, and Blackthorne’s unexpected revulsion toward his men. Along the way, they talk about the thematic significance of loyalty throughout the episode. Later, they unpack Hiromatsu’s devastating sacrifice and the substantial consequences of his decision. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn more a...
Apr 09, 2024•58 min
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•1 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•1 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•1 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•1 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•1 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
