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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

Golden Globe Noms, Back Into the Sheridanverse, and ‘The Agency’

Chris and Andy talk about some of the major takeaways from the Golden Globe nominations that were announced today, including ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 getting nominated for Best Drama despite not being released yet (1:00). Then they talk about the latest episodes from the three big Taylor Sheridan shows airing on Sunday nights right now—‘Yellowstone’ (28:02), ‘Lioness’ (40:04), and ‘Landman’ (48:56)—and Sheridan himself making a cameo on two of those shows. Finally, they cover the latest episode of ...

Dec 09, 20241 hr 23 min

‘Skeleton Crew’ Leans on a Favorite ‘Star Wars’ Trope. Plus, ‘Black Doves.’

Chris and Andy get into the songs and artists that ended up on their Spotify Wrapped and their feelings about the past year in music (1:00). Then they discuss ‘Black Doves,’ the new spy thriller series on Netflix, and how the show balances sentiment with exciting action pieces (12:24). Finally, they talk about the first episode of ‘Skeleton Crew’ and how the show leans on a story trope that seems to be a favorite of the ‘Star Wars’ series of late: lone wolf and cub (29:49). Hosts: Chris Ryan and...

Dec 05, 202457 min

Are We in a Golden Age for Spy Television?

Chris and Andy talk about the bounty of spy TV shows that are airing right now. They cover the new Showtime thriller series ‘The Agency,’ which is based on the French series ‘Le Bureau des Légendes’ (1:00), and how they hope the show is able to go on for multiple seasons and develop like the original did (26:03). They also talk about the first episode of ‘Get Millie Black,’ a Netflix cop drama set in Jamaica (45:21). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about y...

Dec 02, 20241 hr 3 min

Is There Any Room Left for Innovation in the TV Industry? And More Questions from a Thanksgiving Mailbag.

Chris and Andy open up the mailbag to answer questions about the TV industry. They discuss if there's room left for TV innovation in this era of purse-tightening throughout the industry (5:46), what their media diets would look like if they weren't covering TV and movies professionally (25:21), and shows that they have loved that were panned by critics (36:26). Then, Chris talks about his new favorite Sunday night tv lineup: 'Special Ops: Lioness,' 'Landman,' and 'Yellowstone' (44:00). Hosts: Ch...

Nov 25, 20241 hr 4 min

‘Landman’ Shows That Taylor Sheridan’s Still Got It. Plus, Is Cable Officially Dead?

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Comcast will be spinning off several of its cable channels, including USA and Syfy, into a separate company (1:00). Then they discuss the trailers released this week for ‘The Studio’ from Apple TV (16:44) and ‘The Pitt,’ a new ‘ER’-esque show from Max (19:57). Finally, they break down the first two episodes of ‘Landman’: the newest show from the Taylor Sheridan–verse, which despite some wonky writing, still shines (28:22). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenw...

Nov 21, 20241 hr 6 min

‘Dune’ Was a Box Office Hit, so Why Doesn’t ‘Dune: Prophecy’ Work? Plus, ‘Say Nothing’ With Sean Fennessey.

Andy is joined by Sean Fennessey to talk about the first few episodes of ‘Say Nothing’ and how the show works because it lives in a moral gray area (1:00). Then they briefly discuss the finale of ‘Disclaimer’ and why the series might have worked better as a film (31:56) before talking about the first episode of ‘Dune: Prophecy’ and why this prequel series is not working so far (42:43). Host: Andy Greenwald Guest: Sean Fennessey Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc...

Nov 18, 20241 hr 22 min

Patrick Radden Keefe on Bringing 'Say Nothing' From the Page to Screen

Chris talks about the news that 'X-Men' director Simon Kinberg has been tapped to write and produce a new ‘Star Wars’ trilogy and questions whether or not this project will ever come to fruition, or just join the other ‘Star Wars’ projects that Disney announced and subsequently canned (1:00). He is then joined by author Patrick Radden Keefe to talk about adapting his book 'Say Nothing,' which delves into the troubles in Northern Ireland, as a series for FX (16:36) and the challenges that come wi...

Nov 14, 202450 min

London TV Watching, 'The Day of the Jackal,' and 'Disclaimer'

Chris and Andy talk about some of the TV they've been consuming while in London, including Jamie Oliver's cooking show (1:00). Then they discuss the new 'Day of the Jackal' series, a remake of the 1973 film, and why it ends up just feeling like filler for Peacock (9:53). Finally, they talk about the most recent few episodes of 'Disclaimer' and why the show ultimately did not work, even though it has the star power of Alfonso Cuarón and Cate Blanchett behind it (33:11). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy...

Nov 07, 202455 min

Joanna Robinson on Why Streamers Love a Binge, and Van Lathan on ‘Lioness’ Season 2 Leveling Up

Chris is joined by Joanna Robinson to talk about ‘Say Nothing’ getting released all at once on Hulu and where that leaves us in the binge vs. week-to-week war (1:05), the sixth and final season of ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ (17:07), and some of her favorite U.K. TV at the moment, including ‘Rivals’ (24:09). Then, Chris is joined by Van Lathan to talk about their shared passion for ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ and why the show has leveled up in it’s second season (32:50). Host: Chris Ryan Guests: Joan...

Nov 05, 20241 hr 19 min

Our Top TV Presidents. Plus, Netflix Introduces “Moments,” and Will Peacock Ever Be Profitable?

Chris and Andy talk about a new feature that Netflix is rolling out called “Moments” that allows users to capture and share scenes from their favorite shows in an effort to boost fan-driven marketing (1:00). Then they discuss the news that Peacock lost more than $400 million last quarter despite its popular Olympics coverage and what that means for the streamer and its parent company, Comcast (25:43). Finally, in honor of the upcoming election, they talk about some of their favorite TV president...

Oct 31, 20241 hr 10 min

A ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ Debate and Why Is It So Hard to Make Terror TV?

Chris and Andy talk about some TV news, including the announcement of the ‘Beef’ Season 2 cast (1:00) and the release of the trailer for the new Michael Schur show, ‘A Man on the Inside’ (10:05). Then they discuss the first two episodes of ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ Season 2 and whether the show is just "military porn" or something more interesting (14:11). Finally, in honor of Halloween week, they talk about some of their favorite terror TV shows, including ‘Teacup’ and ‘Channel Zero,’ and why horr...

Oct 28, 20241 hr 11 min

The Burgeoning Independent TV Industry. Plus, the ‘Severance’ S2 Trailer Is Finally Here!

The Burgeoning Independent TV Industry. Plus, the ‘Severance’ S2 Trailer Is Finally Here! Chris and Andy talk about the trailers for ‘Severance’ Season 2 (0:00) and ‘Say Nothing,’ which were released this week (1:00). Then they talk about two recent independently made shows—‘Penelope’ from Mark Duplass and ‘Shatter Belt’ from James Ward Byrkit (21:08)—and how this burgeoning independent TV industry compares to the independent movie scene of the ’90s (37:40). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald ...

Oct 25, 20241 hr 9 min

Does It Matter Whether Anyone Likes ‘Disclaimer’ As Long As Apple Does? Plus, ‘The Rivals’

Chris and Andy talk about some of their weekend watches (1:00) and revisiting ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ and not remembering how enmeshed the movie was in greater Marvel lore (11:53). Then they talk about the most recent episodes of ‘Disclaimer,’ and how the show seems specifically tailored to fit a vision that Apple has for its streaming service (21:38), and ‘The Rivals,’ a new raunchy British comedy on Disney+ (34:56). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more abou...

Oct 21, 202451 min

Do TV Shows Need More Entry Points?

Chris and Andy discuss whether TV shows need more entry points, using their complicated feelings about ‘The Penguin’ as an example (02:21). Then, they talk about the Season 1 finale of ‘The English Teacher’ (28:45). Plus, Chris tells Andy about ‘Tell Me Lies’ (35:12) and discusses how it compares to shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy.’ Finally, they talk about the upcoming ‘Superman’ movie, the English adaptation of ‘The Bureau,’ and the Netflix original ‘Black Doves’ (50:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy...

Oct 17, 20241 hr 6 min

‘Disclaimer’ Feels Like the Prestige TV of Five Years Ago. Plus, Timothy Simons on ‘Nobody Wants This.’

Chris and Andy talk about ‘Rebel Ridge,’ a movie that was released recently on Netflix that they both enjoyed (1:00), and ‘Disclaimer,’ the new Apple TV+ series from acclaimed director Alfonso Cuarón and starring Cate Blanchett (18:07). Then they are joined by Timothy Simons to talk about his role on ‘Nobody Wants This’ (36:15) and the benefits of making such an L.A.-centered show (49:17). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Timothy Simons Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad...

Oct 14, 20241 hr 28 min

The 'Slow Horses' Season 4 Finale and 'The Franchise' Lacks Teeth

Chris and Andy hit on some news from the week including the trailer for the Bob Dylan biopic 'A Complete Unknown' and Christopher Nolan eyeing Matt Damon to star in his next movie (1:00). Then they talk about the season finale of 'Slow Horses' and why they felt more lukewarm on this season compared to past ones (12:23), before talking about the premiere of the latest Armando Iannucci comedy 'The Franchise' and how it may have worked better as a workplace drama (33:03). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy...

Oct 10, 202453 min

'Nobody Wants This' and What Makes a TV Show a True Rom-Com. Plus, an 'Industry' Hangover Mailbag.

Chris talks about his experience at the Pavement reunion concert this week, which happened in honor of the documentary about them that premiered at the New York Film Festival (1:00). Then he and Andy talk about the new rom-com series 'Nobody Wants This,' starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody (18:50). Later, they answer a few mailbag questions about the third season of 'Industry' and what might be in store for the fourth (38:00). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn m...

Oct 03, 20241 hr 3 min

'Industry' Creators Konrad Kay and Mickey Down on That Wild Season Finale

Chris and Andy break down the finale of 'Industry' and talk about where we end up finding each of the characters after a season of drugs, gambling, and insider trading (1:00). Then they are joined by creators Konrad Kay and Mickey Down to talk about why they try to write toward fear with this show (34:44), their experience directing the last two episodes (47:33), and the way class ended up playing a bigger role than money this season (54:24). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guests: Konrad K...

Sep 30, 20242 hr 31 min

'The Last of Us' S2 Trailer, 'How to Die Alone,' and Brian Jordan Alvarez on the Making of 'English Teacher'

Chris and Andy talk about the trailer for 'The Last of Us' Season 2 that was released this week (1:00), the new Natasha Rothwell comedy 'How to Die Alone' (23:07), and the latest episode of 'Slow Horses' (37:44). Then they are joined by Brian Jordan Alvarez to talk about the making of his series 'English Teacher' and how veteran comedy TV writer Paul Simms helped him bring it to the screen (49:32). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Brian Jordan Alvarez Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn mor...

Sep 26, 20241 hr 28 min

Ken Leung on 'Industry' S3E7 and His Character's Moral Descent. Plus, 'The Penguin' Waddles.

Chris and Andy talk about the first episode of 'The Penguin,' which, despite its star power and high production value, unfortunately feels like another IP slog (1:00). Then they break down 'Industry' S3E7 and discuss whether the show's ultimate question is if any of the characters will be willing or able to break free (26:57). They are then joined by Ken Leung to talk about Eric's betrayal of Adler in this episode and the discoveries he makes as an actor while working on the show (52:25). Hosts:...

Sep 23, 20242 hr 34 min

Is ‘Agatha All Along’ What Marvel TV Was Always Supposed to Be? Plus, ‘Slow Horses’ S4E3.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Nicole Kidman will be starring in yet another series for Amazon and why she seems to be so prevalent in prestige TV right now (1:00). Then they talk about the first two episodes of ‘Agatha All Along’ and how the campiness and lightness of the show is what Marvel television needs right now (13:49). Finally, they recap the latest episode of ‘Slow Horses’ (37:07). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. V...

Sep 19, 202455 min

The Big Winners and Losers of the 2024 Emmys. Plus, ‘Industry’ S3E6.

Chris and Andy recap last night's Emmys ceremony, discussing how they felt about the overall broadcast itself (1:00) and whether or not it really matters whether ‘The Bear’ runs in the comedy category (16:28). Then they break down the latest episode of ‘Industry,’ talking about Harper and Yasmin’s face-off and Eric’s continued downward spiral (40:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 16, 20241 hr 19 min

The Diminishing Returns of Big Budget TV Adaptations, ‘Slow Horses’ S4E2, and Jeremy Bolm of Touché Amoré

Chris and Andy talk about some entertainment news from the week, including a New York Times article that revealed more details about the power struggle between Bob Iger and Bob Chapek at Disney (1:00) and a Hollywood Reporter article that asked whether or not big-budget adaptations like ‘House of the Dragon’ and ‘Rings of Power’ will ever be able to fully satisfy fans (22:03). Then they recap this week’s episode of ‘Slow Horses’ (33:25), before Chris is joined by Touché Amoré’s Jeremy Bolm to ta...

Sep 12, 20241 hr 25 min

Your Fall Prime-time TV Grid and 'Industry' S3E5

Chris gives you your fall TV night lineup, including shows like the new Adam Pally comedy 'Mr. Throwback' and the BBC cop drama 'Blue Lights' (1:00). Then, Chris and Andy break down the latest episode of 'Industry,' talking about how Rob has emerged as one of the few people to root for this season (17:38) and the imagery and themes that were present throughout this episode (35:57). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices...

Sep 09, 202454 min

What Makes 'English Teacher' a Great Hang, and 'Slow Horses' Is Back for Season 4

Chris and Andy talk about a blog post George R.R. Martin wrote criticizing the changes 'House of the Dragon' made to the book (1:00) and discuss Rolling Stone's recently released 100 best TV episodes of all time list (17:15). Then they talk about the new FX comedy 'English Teacher' and what makes the show a "bread-and-butter" sitcom (22:35). Finally, they talk about the premiere of Season 4 of 'Slow Horses,' streaming TV's most reliable drama (32:45). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Produce...

Sep 05, 202454 min

Breaking Down a Rishi-Filled Episode of 'Industry'

Chris and Andy talk about this week's Rishi-centric episode of 'Industry.' They talk about how this episode was the show's version of 'Uncut Gems' (1:00), how the power dynamics between characters in 'Industry' are constantly changing (15:28), and why in 'Industry' the viewer doesn't have to fully understand the workings of the finance world, they just have to understand how the people in that world are reacting to it (28:10). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn mo...

Sep 02, 202444 min

Make TV and Music ’90s Again: On Oasis's Reunion and ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Oasis will be reuniting for a 14-date tour in the U.K. and Ireland next year (1:00) and the cancellation of ‘The Acolyte’ after just one season (19:03). Then they talk about ‘Homicide: Life on the Street,’ which was recently added to Peacock (24:03), and how a ’90s police drama somehow manages to be better than any TV show released this year (39:01). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas...

Aug 29, 20241 hr 6 min

'Industry' S3E3, Favorite Shows of the Year So Far, and Songs of the Summer

Chris and Andy break down the latest episode of 'Industry' and the increased momentum that comes from having the whole cast together in Switzerland (1;00). Then they open up the mailbag and answer questions about their favorite shows of the year so far (30:26), the best books they've read recently, and their songs of the summer (37:11). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 26, 20241 hr 14 min

‘Alien: Romulus’ and the Summer of “Lega-Sequels.” Plus, ‘Industry’ S3E2.

Chris and Andy talk about the success of ‘Alien: Romulus’ at the box office this weekend and how it increasingly seems like franchise movies are the only sure bet in the industry (1:00). Then they talk about some news from the TV world, including the announcement of Michaela Coel’s next TV show (19:43), before breaking down the latest episode of ‘Industry’ (29:32). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 19, 20241 hr 7 min

News out of the D23 Expo and the Florida Pleasantness of ‘Bad Monkey’

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Paramount Television Studios is being closed as Paramount begins to merge with Skydance (1:00). Then they talk about some of the news that came out during Disney’s D23 expo, including the trailer for the newest 'Star Wars' series, ‘Skeleton Crew’ (10:36). Finally, they discuss the first two episodes of the new Apple TV+ series ‘Bad Monkey,’ which stars Vince Vaughn and a lot of nice shots of the Florida Keys (25:46). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Pr...

Aug 15, 202454 min