Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney adorn themselves accordingly to revisit an unforgettable ‘The Leftovers’ episode, “International Assassin.” They open by discussing why this episode is so essential to the makeup of the show, how it felt like a moment of critical redemption for series creator Damon Lindelof, and their connection to the HBO drama (6:58). Next, they break down the episode scene by scene and talk through how it expertly balances grounded emotional stakes with the absurd premise (16:1...
Aug 01, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Jo and Rob await the jury’s decision to recap the Season 1 finale of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing why the episode felt unsatisfying, the shocking revelation that [redacted] is the killer, and how the ending affects the season as a whole (8:39). Along the way, they talk about what they want out of Season 2 (16:45). Later, they compare the show’s conclusion to that of its cinematic and literary counterparts (24:19). Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Additio...
Jul 24, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Bill Simmons joins Jo and Rob as they take the stand to recap the seventh episode of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing whether the show will ultimately change the ending from the book-turned-film, the surprising news that Apple renewed it for a second season, and some of Bill’s hottest takes on the legal drama (1:57). Along the way, they rave about Peter Sarsgaard’s performance as Tommy Molto in the penultimate episode, and reveal their predictions heading into the finale (20:33). Lat...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 15 min
Jo and Rob prepare for the trial to recap the fifth and sixth episodes of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing whether the series is suffering from the David E. Kelley red herring problem, their leading whodunnit theories, and whether Rusty is too unlikable as the story’s protagonist (2:07). Along the way, they talk about the various dream sequences throughout the series and how they’re being utilized (23:22). Later, they read through a couple of listener emails (and sneak in a few takes...
Jul 10, 2024•57 min
Charles and Van dress in all black to recap the ninth and 10th episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing how Carmy might be becoming the very thing he despises and the potential fallout from the Chicago Tribune review heading into Season 4 (4:15). Later, they talk about whether the series sidelines its side characters this season (27:51). Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan Producer: Kai Grady Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit p...
Jul 06, 2024•44 min
Charles and Van enter Valhalla to recap the seventh and eighth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing how Carmy’s legacy is intertwined with toxicity, why Syd is so attached to the restaurant, and the show’s unique relationship with the real-world fine dining industry (2:51). Later, they break down why “Ice Chips” ultimately fell flat and how this season feels like it’s doing a little too much with some of its creative swings (22:19). Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan Produ...
Jul 04, 2024•46 min
Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre are back to recap the final two episodes of ‘Clipped.’ They start by discussing how they enjoyed their experience with the series as a whole (2:13). Then, they get into Episodes 5 and 6 by talking about how the show recreated some iconic television moments (16:46). Later, they talk about how Adam Silver was portrayed, as well as some other NBA-related odds and ends from the series (31:46). Hosts: Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Additional Prod...
Jul 03, 2024•55 min
Charles and Van stumble back into The Beef to recap the fifth and sixth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They discuss why Season 3 isn’t as compelling as past seasons, how Carmy has devolved into an increasingly unlikable character, and whether the show is suffering from a cameo problem (3:04). Later, they unpack why “Napkins” is one of the strongest episodes of the series to date (24:03). Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan Producer: Kai Grady Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles Learn...
Jul 02, 2024•55 min
Charles and Van follow a set of non-negotiables to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing Lionel Boyce’s growth as an actor, whether Carmy is just too talented to be a good leader, and why Carmy and Richie’s relationship has to be fraught for the show to work (3:56). Later, they unpack what’s behind the more muted critical reception to this season and whether they’re feeling any trepidation heading into the rest of the episodes (30:06). Hosts: Charle...
Jun 30, 2024•46 min
Charles Holmes and Van Lathan step back into the kitchen to recap the first two episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing why the opening moments of the season felt like a visual poem, how long Carmy and Syd can coexist in the restaurant’s new world order, and the competing ideologies that pit the characters against one another (2:59). Along the way, they debate whether Carmy is too demanding of everyone (31:27). And later, they parse if the FX series can still be funny as it exp...
Jun 28, 2024•46 min
Jo and Rob build their case to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by reading through a handful of listener emails before checking in on where the main characters are at halfway through the series (4:00). Along the way, they talk about their primary suspects, how race is changing the previously adapted story, and the shocking plot twist at the end of Episode 4 (18:35). Later, they discuss the complicated relationship between Ray Horgan and Rusty Sabich and what ...
Jun 26, 2024•58 min
Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre lace up and hit the hardwood to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘Clipped.’ They start by unpacking Episode 3, “Let the Games Began” and the contrast between the show’s heavy themes of race and power and its absurd moment-to-moment character depictions (2:01). Next, they break down the series of flashback sequences in Episode 4, “Winning Ugly,” and discuss whether or not going back in time worked at this point in the series (17:28). Later, they hand out their a...
Jun 19, 2024•53 min
Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell spread the ton gossip and recap the last four episodes of ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3. They start by discussing how the Lady Whistledown story line felt high stakes, Polin’s romantic development, and Penelope’s powerful monologue (1:22). Next, they talk about side plot highlights and the season’s pacing issues (16:59). Later, they look ahead and make predictions on what the future of the show could have in store (0:00). Hosts: Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell Produ...
Jun 18, 2024•1 hr
Joanna Robinson and Van Lathan travel to Europe to recap the first six episodes of ‘Interview With the Vampire’ Season 2. They start by discussing whether or not it’s the best show on television right now, how it effectively depicts the cultural complexities of its settings, and why Jacob Anderson’s nuanced performance as Louis de Pointe du Lac anchors the show (1:43). Along the way, they talk about how the AMC drama embraces the queer nature of the story and how Sam Reid’s take on Lestat de Lio...
Jun 17, 2024•51 min
Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker struggle for power to recap ‘Ren Faire,’ a three-part HBO docuseries. They start by discussing their personal experiences with renaissance fairs, the complicated trio of main characters at the heart of this absurd Texas Renaissance Festival conflict, and what makes the Safdie brothers–produced documentary so refreshing (1:23). Along the way, they talk about how ‘Ren Faire’ illustrates themes indicative of our time regarding older people in positions of power (17:55)...
Jun 13, 2024•59 min
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite in the courtroom to recap the two-episode premiere of ‘Presumed Innocent,’ the Apple TV+ limited series starring Jake Gyllenhaal. They start by discussing the benefits of translating this well-known courtroom drama into a serialized iteration, the strong ensemble of actors led by a showstopping Ruth Negga performance, and the violent nature of the story (1:05). Along the way, they unpack how swapping out Harrison Ford for Gyllenhaal significantly alters th...
Jun 12, 2024•57 min
Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker fight with the monster under the bed to recap ‘Eric,’ the six-episode limited Netflix series starring Benedict Cumberbatch. They start by discussing their complicated reactions to the pilot, why the subplots are much more interesting than the main story line, and how the narrative becomes increasingly convoluted as the show progresses (2:06). Along the way, they unpack its attempts to tackle an overwhelming number of heavy themes throughout the bizarre crime drama ...
Jun 06, 2024•59 min
Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre lace up and hit the hardwood to recap the ‘Clipped’ two-episode series premiere. They start by sharing their initial feelings on the first two episodes, what makes the essence of V. Stiviano so difficult to capture on-screen, and the over-the-top nature of the performances (Laurence Fishburne’s Doc voice is certainly a choice) (1:38). Along the way, they discuss how the actual basketball sequences take away from the show (23:27). Later, they point out some of their f...
Jun 05, 2024•46 min
Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin face off head-to-head and recap the ‘Hacks’ Season 3 finale. They start by discussing their favorite episodes from the back half of the season, the stacked guest appearances throughout, and the intoxicating dynamic between Deborah and Ava (1:28). Next, they unpack the final moments of “Bulletproof” and the major twist at the end of the episode (12:07). Later, Joanna is joined by ‘Hacks’ cocreator Jen Statsky to talk about the rhythm of Deborah and Ava’s relation...
Jun 03, 2024•56 min
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
