Jo and Rob dance around danger to recap the third episode of ‘Slow Horses’ Season 4. They open with a few more listener emails before discussing the dark backstory of Frank Harkness, the dynamic between Standish and David Cartwright, and why the blissfully ignorant Giti is quickly becoming one of the show’s most delightful characters (2:06). Along the way, they theorize about what’s going on with the mysterious J.K. Coe and how Bad Sam Chapman’s role in the story has grown season to season (29:4...
Sep 18, 2024•55 min
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney put on their best floral beach shirts to recap the first six episodes of ‘Bad Monkey,’ starring Vince Vaughn. They discuss what stands out the most in the Apple TV+ crime drama, how the central mystery still remains compelling, and why Vaughn is the perfect fit for Andrew Yancy (1:38). Along the way, they talk about the folksy narration style that accompanies the story and whether or not it works (20:08). Later, they look ahead to what the rest of the season may h...
Sep 12, 2024•49 min
Jo and Rob grab their forged passports to recap the second episode of ‘Slow Horses’ Season 4. They run through a handful of listener emails before discussing how River faked his death, why Catherine Standish is one of the smartest characters across the entire show, and the brief introduction of Hugo Weaving’s character (2:40). Along the way, they introduce a brand-new segment called Lamb Shank of the Week (38:38). Later, they’re joined by Emmy-nominated star Gary Oldman to talk about how he land...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 9 min
Charles and Jodi go all in to recap the fourth and fifth episodes of ‘Industry’ Season 3. They discuss how they’re feeling with the season at the halfway point, why the Rishi-focused standalone episode was so effective, and how the multiple storylines from opposite ends of the show are weaving together (3:20). Next, they unpack Yasmin and Rob’s complicated relationship and the latter’s ayahuasca-induced trip (14:01). Along the way, they talk about how Sweetpea is the sneaky MVP of the season (34...
Sep 10, 2024•58 min
Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker create a monkey island to recap ‘Chimp Crazy,’ a four-part HBO docuseries. They start by discussing the complicated nature of its virality, Alan Cumming’s major role in the search for Tonka the missing chimp, and PETA’s heavy involvement in the case (3:12). Along the way, they talk about the eccentricity of Tonia Haddix and her story (17:14). Later, they unpack series director Eric Goode’s use of a proxy director and the blurry ethics around that tactic in documenta...
Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 11 min
Jo and Rob go on the run to recap the Season 4 premiere of ‘Slow Horses.’ They discuss whether the show has a house style when it comes to how it’s shot, the rapid pace at which the Apple TV+ series releases, and the wittiness of the writing (2:50). Along the way, they walk through some of the new characters introduced so far (22:01). Later, they unpack the fake-out at the center of the episode and whether the twist worked (36:07). Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Addit...
Sep 04, 2024•58 min
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney return to Slough House to recap the first three seasons of ‘Slow Horses’ ahead of its Season 4 premiere on September 4. They briefly make the case for why it’s one of the best shows on television, then provide snapshots of each of the past three seasons (4:08). Next, they walk through a character-by-character breakdown to revisit where the Apple TV+ spy-thriller's protagonists left off (14:41). Later, they bid farewell to a few of the side characters lost along th...
Aug 28, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Charles and Jodi step into the void to recap the second and third episodes of ‘Industry’ Season 3. They discuss how far Harper and Yas are willing to go to win, why Henry Muck has taken such a liking to Yas, and what’s behind the disappearance of Charles Hanani (3:44). Along the way, they talk about the psychosexual connections among four of the show’s main characters and how they each vie for validation and power with one another (21:17). Later, they unpack the ripple effect of the big twist in...
Aug 27, 2024•55 min
Joanna Robinson is joined by author and podcaster Kristin Russo to revisit the cult classic ‘My So-Called Life’ and celebrate the 30th anniversary of its premiere. They discuss why the 1994 teen drama still means so much to them all these years later, its impact on the television landscape during its initial run, and how it inspired (and was inspired by) fashion trends of the era (1:43). Along the way, they talk through how the ABC show broke ground with some of its character archetypes and cast...
Aug 21, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker hide from the paparazzi to recap the Season 3 premiere of ‘Industry.’ They discuss their relationship with the intense HBO drama dating back to its first season, how the role reversal of Yasmin and Harper makes for an intriguing twist, and why Kit Harington is an excellent addition to the cast (2:31). Along the way, they talk about Ken Leung’s electric performance as Eric and how he serves as the North Star character for the series (22:29). Later, they debate wheth...
Aug 13, 2024•55 min
Jo and Rob demonstrate their faith to revisit a ‘The Leftovers’ episode “It’s a Matt, Matt, Matt, Matt World.” They discuss what it was like rewatching this episode vs. seeing it for the first time, how it serves as a character send-off for Matt Jamison, and the show’s continued exploration of faith and religion throughout its three seasons (4:01). Along the way, they talk about how the series tethers itself to reality through its various ties to popular culture (23:27). Later, they unpack Damon...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 10 min
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
