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•2 hr 47 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•2 hr 33 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast Two episodes into ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ Charles and Van dive into their theories about who could be the killer, how the polar bear figures into the mystery, and more. Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan Producers: Steve Ahlman and Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 26, 2024•30 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob return to break down the second episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They answer a handful of listener emails and discuss the many connections to Season 1 that popped up in this episode and the complicated dynamics of the tight-knit Ennis community. Along the way, they talk about the unlikely similarities between Danvers and Navarro in how they handle their respective relationships. Later, they dive into theory corner to investigate the most pressing clues heading into next wee...
Jan 24, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Transcript available on Metacast Andy Greenwald is joined by Sean Fennessey to discuss “Person to Person,” the series finale of ‘Mad Men.’ They start by describing what the surrounding culture was like and who they were as people when it initially aired (5:03). Next, Andy reveals that his opinion of the final episode has altered, then details what led to the change of heart (16:00). Along the way, the two talk about how the AMC hit drama decided to handle Don Draper’s send-off and the ways in which it broke so many TV norms in ...
Jan 24, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Transcript available on Metacast Andy Greenwald is joined by Mallory Rubin to discuss “Always,” the series finale of ‘Friday Night Lights.’ They open by setting the scene, providing background info on the show itself, and contextualizing the TV landscape that it was released in (3:43). Next, they discuss the stakes of, instant reactions to, and various criticisms of the final episode (25:33). Along the way, the two talk about the finale’s legacy and how it’s aged for them personally (80:39). Finally, they answer the titular que...
Jan 17, 2024•2 hr 44 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob break down the ‘Fargo’ Season 5 finale. They discuss their personal feelings on the final episode, how the characters of Indira Olmstead and Witt Farr fall flat in the end, and the conclusion to Gator’s redemption arc. Along the way, they briefly talk about the intense prison scene between Lorraine and Roy. Later, they’re joined by the creator and showrunner of ‘Fargo,’ Noah Hawley, to talk about how this season grapples with the symptoms of a divided America, the final confrontation ...
Jan 17, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite to break down the premiere of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They open by unpacking the lasting cultural impact of the first season 10 years later and how the fourth season of the beloved HBO drama differs this time around. Next, they discuss the eerie Alaskan setting, the many strained relationships between the characters, and the supernatural elements of the story so far. Later, they close by investigating a series of significant clues and early theori...
Jan 16, 2024•2 hr 33 min•Transcript available on Metacast Sean and Jo return to break down the Season 1 finale of ‘The Curse.’ They discuss the extremely bold conclusion, whether or not the final episode has a deeper meaning beneath it, and the subsequent provocation of critics and viewers alike. Along the way, they debate whether Asher was actually cursed and his final attempt to win over Whitney’s approval. Later, they talk through similarities (and differences) between the Showtime series and ‘Twin Peaks.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Joanna Robinson P...
Jan 12, 2024•57 min•Transcript available on Metacast Did Don Draper really buy the world a Coke? Did Tony Soprano really die (or just order more onion rings)? Were those guys really in hell the whole time—or was that just the audience? Hosted by Andy Greenwald, 'Stick the Landing' is a new podcast that revisits iconic season finales from the past to see what they might tell us about our TV-watching future. Each episode will feature a different guest to revisit finales from shows such as 'Friday Night Lights,' 'Freaks and Geeks,' and 'The Office' a...
Jan 10, 2024•1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the ninth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5 and talk about what they’re hoping to see in the season finale. They head to Coen Corner to parse the Coen references in this episode, and go through listener emails regarding the truth of the phrase “fruit of the poisonous tree,” Russian election scams, Oregonian anarchists, and more. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producers: Sasha Ashall and Kai Grady Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adcho...
Jan 10, 2024•54 min•Transcript available on Metacast Sean and Jo convene before the finale of Nathan Fielder’s cringe dramedy ‘The Curse’ to sift through the many ideas about performance of the self, gentrification, reality television, marriage, art, and more in Episodes 6-9. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Joanna Robinson Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 08, 2024•54 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the eighth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They open by reading through a handful of listener emails on how this season is depicting the Midwest and its culture. Next, they discuss the rise and fall of Danish Graves, the likelihood of an effective Gator redemption arc, and Roy Tillman’s viciousness. Along the way, they revisit this season’s themes of debt and the characters’ constructed realities. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Kai Grady Learn mor...
Jan 03, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the seventh episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They discuss the harrowing puppet theater visuals and Dot’s coinciding dream sequence, Gator’s increasingly ruinous character arc, and the various hints that foreshadowed Camp Utopia. Along the way, they talk about Wayne and Scotty’s wholesome father-daughter bond. Later, they close by unpacking the final scene, in which Roy finally catches up to Dot, and why this episode is the most technically impressive of the season. ...
Dec 27, 2023•48 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the sixth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They open by talking through the various meanings behind the title “The Tender Trap,” revisiting the ongoing parallels between the show and the Coen brothers’ filmography, and nominating their favorite Minnesota nice moments of the episode. Next, they discuss how the series continues to peel back the true nature of two of the show’s most despicable characters—Roy Tillman and Lars Olmstead. Later, they close by highlighting ...
Dec 20, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Amanda return for their final word on ‘The Crown.’ They go character by character through the last three episodes of Season 6 to explore what Peter Morgan is really trying to say about the British monarchy, and recap their favorite moments like Claire Foy’s cameo and shirtless Matt Smith. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 20, 2023•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Amanda reconvene now that the final six episodes of ‘The Crown’ dropped on Netflix to discuss Episode 5, 6, and 7. They dream-cast Will, Kate, and Harry after talking about the three unknown actors that will be portraying them, then examine what the show is trying to say as it increasingly depicts events we have a vivid collective memory of. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 16, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the fifth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They discuss a handful of scene-stealing moments from Jennifer Jason Leigh, Roy Tillman’s role as the show’s true villain, and how many of the characters are constructing their own realities. Along the way, they unpack ‘The Wizard of Oz’ theory and all of the ways the series is mirroring the classic American fairy tale. Later, they talk about the unlikely similarities between Dot and Munch. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Ma...
Dec 13, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Transcript available on Metacast Joanna is joined by Sean to recap Episode 3, 4, and 5 of ‘The Curse.’ They discuss their fandom of Emma Stone and her character’s moral decline, the Lynchian and reality TV–like characteristics of the filmmaking, and how Asher’s character is a reflection of Fielder’s past works. They take a look at Dougie’s story line in comparison to that of Asher’s, then react to the revelation of the curse being a TikTok trend on the show. Finally, they make forecasts about where the show is going and how it ...
Dec 09, 2023•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jo and Rob are back to break down the fourth episode of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They discuss the contentious dichotomy between the haves and the have-nots, the action-packed home invasion sequence, and the ongoing parallels between Roy Tillman and Dot Lyon. Along the way, they talk about Jennifer Jason Leigh’s performance and why her outsized presence works within the context of her character. Later, they theorize about some potentially hidden familial connections and parse through some listener email...
Dec 06, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Transcript available on Metacast Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite to break down the first three episodes of ‘Fargo’ Season 5. They give a brief overview on their relationships with past seasons of the series and the Coen brothers’ film it’s loosely based on, before then discussing why this time around feels like a return to form. Next, they unpack this season’s thematic through line that places the wives at the center of the story, walk through a taxonomy of the recurring ‘Fargo’ archetypes up until this point, and highl...
Nov 29, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
