The Watch - podcast cover

The Watch

The Ringerwww.theringer.com
Every week, The Ringer's Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan -- longtime friends and pop culture addicts -- break down the latest in TV, movies, and music.

Episodes

‘Hit Man,’ ‘Fantasmas,’ and ‘Top Chef’ Episode 12

Chris and Andy talk about the success of the new Richard Linklater movie, ‘Hit Man,’ on Netflix over the weekend and how its streaming success compares to that of ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ at the box office (1:00). Then they talk about the strange new HBO comedy ‘Fantasmas,’ from comedian Julio Torres (38:05), before discussing the latest episode of ‘Top Chef’ (54:19). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 10, 20241 hr 16 min

Can ‘The Acolyte’ Break Through the 'Star Wars' Institution? Plus, the ‘Hacks’ Season 3 Finale.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ director Shawn Levy is potentially being tapped to direct the next ‘Avengers’ movie (1:00). Then they talk about the first two episodes of ‘The Acolyte’ and how director Leslye Headland is doing her best to walk a tightrope between making a show that is appealing to a general audience and also hard-core ‘Star Wars’ fans (12:21). Finally, they talk about the season finale of ‘Hacks’ and how they felt about Season 3 as a whole (46:50) ...

Jun 06, 20241 hr 20 min

What’s Missing From Our TV Screens Right Now. Plus, Do the Movies Need Marvel?

Chris and Andy talk about the underperformance of movies like ‘Furiousa’ and ‘The Fall Guy’ at the box office, and whether or not a lack of Marvel movies in theaters could be to blame (1:00). Then they talk about some types of shows they feel are missing from their screens right now—like an hour-long drama that could go for multiple seasons, or a splashy adaptation (33:47). Finally they talk about the new HBO docuseries ‘Ren Faire,’ which is like ‘Succession’ set in the world of Renaissance fair...

Jun 03, 20241 hr 13 min

'The Bear’ Season 3 Trailer, ‘Tires,’ and Rembert Browne on Making ‘Clipped’

Chris and Andy talk about the full trailer for ‘The Bear’ Season 3 that was released this week (1:00) and the first few episodes of ‘Tires,’ the new series from comedian Shane Gillis (14:44). Then they are joined by ‘Clipped’ staff writer Rembert Browne to talk about how his 2014 article in Grantland about the scandal involving Clippers owner Donald Sterling led him to work on the show (27:37) and why this story is still worth telling (44:38). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Rembert ...

May 30, 20241 hr 8 min

Netflix’s Plan for ‘3 Body Problem,’ Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums, and ‘Top Chef’

Chris and Andy talk about ‘3 Body Problem’ creators Benioff and Weiss promising that there will be more seasons of the show, and why Netflix is being so vague about its plans for officially renewing the sci-fi drama (10:31). Then they talk about the news that a live-action ‘X-Men’ movie officially has a screenwriter (18:13), before talking about Apple Music’s 100 best albums list (35:37), and why these last few episodes of ‘Top Chef’ just haven’t had the juice (56:22). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy...

May 23, 20241 hr 16 min

Steven Zaillian on Creating the World of ‘Ripley.’ Plus, More ‘Shogun’ and ‘Yellowstone’ News.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that ‘Yellowstone’ has started production on the last episodes of it’s final season (1:00), and news that ‘Shogun’ will actually be coming back for two more seasons (9:54). Then they are joined by ‘Ripley’ creator Steven Zaillian to talk about what drew him to make another adaptation of the Patricia Highsmith novel (21:08), and working with actors like Andrew Scott, Kenneth Lonergan, and John Malkovich on the show (38:14). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald P...

May 20, 202459 min

New Seasons of ‘House of the Dragon’ and ‘Rings of Power,’ and the State of Franchise TV. Plus, ‘Big Cigar’ and Adrien Brody on ‘Winning Time’ and ‘Succession.’

Chris and Andy discuss standing ovation culture at the Cannes Film Festival (01:29), and Bob Iger’s admission that he tried to tell too many stories at the start of streaming (05:47). They talk about the many prequels being announced, starting with ‘Dune: Prophecy’ (12:31), as well as the companies’ commitment to getting a return on investment for their IP. They then get into the trailer for Season 2 of ‘The Rings of Power’ and ‘House of Dragon’ (17:25), and the renewal of ‘3 Body Problem’ (29:5...

May 16, 20241 hr 27 min

‘Ripley’ Is the Best Show of the Year So Far. Plus, ‘Fantastic Four’ Casting News and ‘Hacks.’

Chris and Andy talk about the just-OK box office performance of ‘The Fall Guy’ and what that says about the state of the movie industry right now (11:09). Then they talk about some more casting news for ‘Fantastic Four’ (19:07) before discussing the first four episodes of ‘Hacks’ Season 3 and the crossroads where the show finds itself right now (27:19). Finally, they talk about the final three episodes of ‘Ripley’ and why it is their favorite show of the year so far (37:43). Hosts: Chris Ryan an...

May 13, 20241 hr 6 min

‘Shogun’ and ‘The Bear’ News, the Disney-Hulu-Max Bundle, and ‘Everybody’s in L.A.’

Chris and Andy remember the legendary engineer and producer Steve Albini, who passed away this week (1:00). They then talk of news that the third season of ‘The Bear’ will be out this June (13:25) and that ‘Shogun’ will be getting a second season (18:30). Next, they talk about Disney and Warner Bros. reaching a deal to offer a Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle (28:44), before diving into their new favorite delight on Netflix: John Mulaney’s quasi-late-night show, ‘Everybody’s in L.A.’ (36:33). Hosts...

May 10, 202455 min

Scott Frank on 'Monsieur Spade' and Lessons Learned From Over 25 Years of Screenwriting

Chris and Andy are joined by screenwriter Scott Frank to talk about making 'Monsieur Spade' and what pulled him toward that adaptation (1:00), how he shifted from being primarily a script doctor to running his own shows (21:39), and how he feels about the shifting ways in which people consume TV and movies (41:49). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Scott Frank Producers: Kaya McMullen and Eduardo Ocampo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 02, 20241 hr 1 min

‘Baby Reindeer,’ ‘Sugar,’ and This Maybe Era of “Mid TV”

Andy is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss a New York Times article published last week declaring that we’re in the midst of an era of “mid TV” with shows like ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ and ‘Hijack’ (11:42). Then, they talk about the new Netflix hit ‘Baby Reindeer’ in relation to that article (39:36), before discussing episodes 2-5 of ‘Sugar’ and why it should have worked when unfortunately it doesn't (50:44). Read the New York Times piece here. Host: Andy Greenwald Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer:...

Apr 29, 20241 hr 18 min

‘The Office’ Spinoff, ‘Sympathizer’ Episode 2, and ‘Top Chef’ Episode 6.

Chris and Andy discuss the success of ‘Shogun,’ then dig into the latest news, including Tina Fey and Steve Carell teaming up for a new Netflix comedy series, as well as the latest casting news for the new ‘Office’ spinoff (04:45). Then, they discuss Episode 2 of ‘The Sympathizer’ and whether the show's flair is both a benefit and detriment (27:47). They end with a recap of ‘Top Chef’ Episode 6 and decide if the show is delivering an undercooked product (50:13). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenw...

Apr 25, 20241 hr 12 min

‘Shogun’ Finale With Creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks

Chris and Andy do a quick culture catch-up, featuring Sunday’s surprise ‘Bluey’ episode, "Surprise!," and Taylor Swift’s new double album, before getting into their unfiltered thoughts on the ‘Shogun’ finale (9:30). Then, they speak with ‘Shogun’ creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks about how they approached writing the show, casting Cosmo Jarvis, the finale, and more (25:40). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guests: Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks Producers: Sasha Ashall and Kaya McMullen L...

Apr 24, 20241 hr 17 min

Apple Gets Into the Franchise Business, the Penultimate Episode of ‘Shogun,’ and ‘Ripley’ Episodes 4 and 5

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Apple TV will be making a ‘For All Mankind’ spinoff called ‘Star City,’ and adapting another one of Mick Herron’s novels (author of ‘Slow Horses’) for a show starring Emma Thompson (1:00). Then, they talk about an article in Harper’s that looks at the role private equity firms have played in the TV industry over the past decade (13:38), before discussing the penultimate episode of ‘Shogun’ (29:07) and episodes 4 and 5 of ‘Ripley’ (59:09). Read the Harper’s...

Apr 18, 20241 hr 21 min

Weekend Watches, ‘The Sympathizer,’ and ‘Fallout’

Chris and Andy talk about some of the things they watched over the weekend, including a supersized episode of ‘Bluey’ (1:00) and 'Saturday Night Live' hosted by Ryan Gosling (15:51). Then, they talk about the first episode of ‘The Sympathizer’ and whether shows are helped or hurt by having a famous director like Park Chan-wook direct the first few episodes (22:16). Finally, they discuss ‘Fallout’ and where it ranks among other video game adaptations, such as ‘The Last of Us’ (42:12). Hosts: Chri...

Apr 16, 20241 hr 3 min

‘Shogun’ Episode 8, ‘Ripley’ Episode 3, and ‘Top Chef’ Episode 4

Chris and Andy talk about some news from the week, including the trailer for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ and the announcement that the John le Carré adaptation ‘The Night Manager’ will be returning for two more seasons (1:00). Then they talk about the latest episode of ‘Shogun’ (16:49) and Episode 3 of ‘Ripley’ (41:14) before discussing how they are liking this season of ‘Top Chef’ so far (53:04). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc...

Apr 11, 20241 hr 13 min

The ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Series Finale, ‘Ripley,’ and ‘Sugar’

Chris and Andy talk about the series finale of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and how the show has evolved over its 12-season run (1:00). Then, they talk about the first two episodes of ‘Ripley’ and how it may be the best thing on Netflix since ‘Mindhunter’ (15:06). Finally, they get into the first two episodes of the Colin Farrell show ‘Sugar’ and how it’s hard to judge the show when they know an extreme twist is coming (41:53). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more ab...

Apr 08, 20241 hr 8 min

‘Shogun’ Episode 7 and ‘3 Body Problem’ Episodes 6-8

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Julia Garner was cast as a version of Silver Surfer in the upcoming ‘Fantastic Four’ movie (1:00) and give some love to the second season of ‘Tokyo Vice’ (10:46). Then they break down the seventh episode of ‘Shogun’ and talk about how the show’s long production road helped deepen the characters (17:18). Finally, they talk about Episodes 6-8 of ‘3 Body Problem’ and whether there will be a second season of the show (36:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwa...

Apr 04, 20241 hr 14 min

‘X-Men ’97’ and the State of Comic Book TV. Plus, How Much “Reality” Is in Jerrod Carmichael’s ‘Reality Show’?

Chris is joined by Ringer-Verse host Charles Holmes to talk about the new animated series ‘X-Men ’97’ and how it’s the latest installment in what has become the genre of “nostalgia” television (1:00). Then, they talk about the first few episodes of the ‘Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show,’ how much “reality” there is in this reality TV show (37:14), and where this show fits in with the evolving idea of what a standup comic does (54:50). Host: Chris Ryan Guest: Charles Holmes Producer: Kaya McMullen ...

Apr 01, 20241 hr 23 min

'Shogun' Episode 6 and the British TV Landscape With Flo Lloyd-Hughes

Chris and Andy break down the sixth episode of 'Shogun,' talking about their favorite moments from this episode and Anna Sawai's standout performance (1:00). Then, Chris is joined by Flo Lloyd-Hughes, host of The Ringer's 'Counter Pressed,' to talk about British TV-watching habits, including the popularity of 'The Traitors' U.K. (27:17) and what American shows have crossed over to become popular in England this year (44:42). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Flo Lloyd-Hughes Producer: ...

Mar 28, 20241 hr 7 min

‘3 Body Problem’ Episodes 1-5 and Benioff and Weiss’s Adaptation Prowess

Chris and Andy talk about news that ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 has been delayed indefinitely, and get into whether or not the show will ever come back (1:00). Then, they discuss the first five episodes of ‘3 Body Problem,’ touching on how Benioff and Weiss are at their best when working from a source material (15:43) and how the show manages to make dense sci-fi material feel light and fast-paced (34:32). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Vis...

Mar 25, 202457 min

The ‘House of the Dragon’ and ‘Acolyte’ Trailers, ‘3 Body Problem,’ ‘Shogun’ Episode 5, and the Next Era of ‘Top Chef’

Chris and Andy talk about the trailers for years-in-the-making ‘Star Wars’ show ‘The Acolyte’ (1:00) and the second season of ‘House of the Dragon’ (11:41). Then they talk about the first episode of ‘3 Body Problem’ and how Benioff and Weiss manage to speed through plot in a way that hurt the end of ‘Game of Thrones,’ but is beneficial here (17:03). Finally, they discuss the fifth episode of ‘Shogun’ (29:27) and the premiere of ‘Top Chef’ Season 21, which marks a new era with Kristen Kish as the...

Mar 21, 20241 hr 13 min

‘Manhunt’ and Apple TV+’s Historical Fiction Niche. Plus, ‘The Bear’ News.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that ‘The Bear’ is shooting its third and fourth seasons simultaneously and the breakneck production pace that the show has (1:00). Then they talk about the new show ‘Manhunt’ that depicts the hunt for Abraham Lincoln’s killer (23:29) and Apple TV+’s play for straight historical fiction television (32:53). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 18, 202457 min

How Much Should TV Creators Ask of Their Viewers? Plus, 'Shogun' Episode 4 and 'The Gentlemen.'

Chris and Andy talk about a New Yorker profile of 'Succession' writer Lucy Prebble in which she wonders whether it's better to create TV that "feels like having a bath" instead of shows with complicated plotlines that require the viewer to follow closely (1:00). Then they talk about the fourth episode of 'Shogun' (26:44) and the new Netflix show 'The Gentlemen,' which feels just like the "gourmet cheeseburger" that chief content officer Bela Bajaria once described (44:55). Read the New Yorker ar...

Mar 14, 20241 hr 6 min

Have the Oscars Gotten Their Groove Back? Plus, ‘The Regime.’

Chris and Andy talk about Sunday night's Oscars ceremony and how it seemed to cement the next generation of stars (1:00), as well as other standout moments from the broadcast, like the "I'm Just Ken" performance (30:57). Then, they talk about the first two episodes of ‘The Regime’ starring Kate Winslet, and the difference between when a show is “bad” and when it’s just not working (55:47). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas...

Mar 12, 20241 hr 11 min

‘Shogun’ Episode 3, Influential Childhood TV Shows, and Trailers for ‘3 Body Problem’ and ‘Fallout’

Chris and Andy talk about the third episode of ‘Shogun’ and how the show uses confrontation set pieces to drive the plot (1:00). Then, they answer a few more mailbag questions, talking about the lasting impact of ‘Dune: Part Two’ (28:16), the most influential TV shows of their childhoods (41:24), and the trailers for ‘3 Body Problem’ and ‘Fallout’ (48:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 08, 20241 hr 3 min

‘Dune: Part Two’ and Denis Villeneuve’s World Building. Plus, Mailbag Questions

Chris and Andy give their reactions to ‘Dune: Part Two’ (1:00) and talk about whether or not the movie cemented the next generation of stars in Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, and Florence Pugh (30:38). Then they talk about some other things they are watching like Richard Linklater’s new documentary ‘Hometown Prison’ (41:36), before opening up the mailbag to answer a few questions around the state of the tv industry (48:54). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen...

Mar 05, 20241 hr 12 min

‘Shogun’ Episodes 1 and 2, the ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series, and Previewing ‘The Regime’

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Guy Ritchie will direct a ‘Ray Donovan’ spinoff (1:00) and that the long-talked-about ‘Harry Potter’ TV series could be coming to Max in 2026 (15:32). Then, they talk about the first two episodes of ‘Shogun’ and how the show is using the TV medium to tell a dense and rich story (36:31). Finally, they preview ‘The Regime,’ HBO’s new Sunday night show starring Kate Winslet (59:26). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about...

Feb 29, 20241 hr 7 min

‘Dune: Part Two’ and ‘Shogun’ Anticipation Meter, the Possible Paramount-Peacock Merger, ‘The Dynasty,’ and ‘The Greatest Night in Pop’

Chris and Andy talk about rewatching ‘Dune’ in anticipation of ‘Dune: Part Two’ and how seriously Denis Villeneuve takes this world that he is creating (1:00). Then they talk about ‘Shogun’ and why the show reminds them of ‘Game of Thrones’ (18:03), before talking about the rumors that Paramount+ and Peacock might merge (32:38). Finally, they discuss two documentaries they are enjoying: ‘The Dynasty’ and ‘The Greatest Night in Pop’ (56:32). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McM...

Feb 26, 20241 hr 9 min

The ‘True Detective’ Discourse, the ‘Monsieur Spade’ Finale, and ‘Madame Web’

Chris and Andy talk about the news that ‘True Detective’ has been renewed for Season 5 with Issa Lopez at the helm, and some of show creator Nic Pizzolatto’s comments about the latest season (1:00). Then, they talk about two Apple shows they have been watching, ‘Masters of the Air’ and ‘The New Look’ (23:55), and how they define the company’s take on historical fiction. They then discuss the finale of ‘Monsieur Spade’ (41:11), before talking about their experience seeing ‘Madame Web’ (56:03). Ho...

Feb 22, 20241 hr 21 min
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