Decoding TV

Ep. 106 - 'Bait' Is a Funny, Fascinating Exploration of Representation (Plus: 'The Pitt' S2E13 Sets Up an Explosive Finale)

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 18:52:50 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt. Also, David discusses Bait and Patrick finishes Wonder Man.

What do we make of Netflix’s new price hike? Did Wonder Man deliver on its ending? And what is our reaction to the big X-Files casting news that broke last week? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 14 (HBO Max)
The Boys (Amazon Prime)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

05:50 - Show of the Week
Bait
14:45 Patrick Finishes the Damn Show
Wonder Man
22:13 - TV News
PSA: Tubi adding 250 episodes of Sesame Street
Netflix raises prices again
Himesh Patel cast as co-lead of new X-Files
Is it a continuation?
39:40 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 13 - 6:00 P.M.
The Pitt heads to Alamo drafthouse for finale
Supriya Ganesh exits, Ayesha Harris will be series regular

Links:

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Ep. 105 - 'Invincible' S4 Gets Off to a Great Start (Plus: Things in 'The Pitt' S2E12 Boil Over)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:41:14 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Invincible. Then, Sarah Marrs joins us to discuss The Pitt.

Can CBS News be saved? What do we make of the news that Wonder Man is being renewed? And what the hell happened with The Bachelorette last week? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 13 (HBO Max)
Bait (Amazon Prime)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

2:30 - Show of the Week
Invincible S4
14:55 - TV News
Hacks Will End After Season 5 and For All Mankind Will End After Season 6
Wonder Man renewed for season 2
BW Corner:
CBS News to Lay off 6% of Staff
CBS Evening News ratings drop to below 4 million
The Bachelorette Implodes
Potential $70 million loss
49:00 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 12 - 6:00 P.M.

Links:

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Ep. 104 - What 'The Pitt' S2E11 Has To Say About ICE

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:30:48 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and DTF St. Louis.

What exactly went down with the failed Buffy reboot? Why can’t Damon Lindelof stop putting his foot in his mouth? And does anyone care about Last of Us season 3 at this point? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 12 (HBO Max)
Invincible Season premiere (Amazon Prime)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

2:30 - Show of the Week
The Oscars
14:15 - TV News
Oscars ratings
How the Buffy reboot died
Variety’s “hit piece”
Paradise renewed for season 3
Damon Lindelof pisses off another beloved comic book writer
The time he pissed off Alan Moore
‘Stranger Things’ Animated Spinoff Gets One-Day Theatrical Preview
Stranger Things box set
Last of Us Casting news
49:00 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 11 - 5:00 P.M.
1:22:00 - DTF St. Louis
Episode 3 - Go Getter

Links:

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Ep. 103 - ‘The Pitt’ S2E10 Is One of Its Gnarliest Episodes Yet (Plus: Linda Cardellini Is Irresistible in 'DTF St. Louis' Ep. 2)

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:16:18 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and DTF St. Louis.

How’s the Paramount acquisition of Warner Bros going so far? Do we think the kids are going to hang out and watch Verts? Is Daryl Hannah right to be pissed at Love Story? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 10 (HBO Max)
DTF St. Louis Episode 2 (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

2:30 - Something We’ve Been Watching/Show of the Week/???
13:15 - TV News
David Ellison’s visit to Warner Bros. doesn’t go well.
Disney is about to launch VERTS!!!
Daryl Hannah’s NYTimes Op Ed about Love Story
Love Story is FX/s most-watched limited series ever
44:00 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 10 - 4:00 P.M.
1:22:30 - DTF St. Louis
Episode 2 - Snag It

Links:

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Ep. 102 - Are we DTF with 'DTF St. Louis?' (Plus: ‘The Pitt’ S2E09 and the Importance of Empathy)

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:29:58 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt with Sarah Marrs from Lainey Gossip. Plus: Our thoughts on the season premiere of DTF St. Louis.

What is our reaction to Paramount buying Warner Bros? Did Jamie Lee Curtis accidentally reveal the final season of The Bear? Are we excited about the new Lanterns show? Does God of War on Prime Video really look bad? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 10 (HBO Max)
DTF St. Louis Episode 2 (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

04:45 - TV News
Paramount Buys Warner Bros
This is about reinventing the business
Jamie Lee Curtis accidentally confirms The Bear will end with S5
‘God of War’ Creator Says TV First Look Is Dumb
Lanterns Trailer
Scrubs Reboot is huge
31:30 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 9 - 3:00 P.M.
1:24:30 - DTF St. Louis
Episode 1 - Cornhole

Links:

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Ep. 101 - ‘The Pitt’ S2E08 Asks if You’d Take a 20% Chance of Getting Better for a 1% Chance of Disaster

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:14:43 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt.

What did we make of the mess at the BAFTAs this week? Are people who partake in IMDB Score Wars well balanced or hateful individuals? And how excited are we for Ryan Coogler’s X-Files? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 9 (HBO Max)
DTF St. Louis (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

01:30 - TV News
The BAFTA Mess
BBC Removes N-Word Outburts
John Davidson apologizes kind of
Warner Complains About N-Word but BBC Broadcasts It Anyways
John Davidson’s interview with Variety
Slate’s Interview with Johnelle Bean
GoT vs. Breaking Bad IMDB Score War
X-Files Gets Hulu Pilot
Disney Asked Tony Gilroy not to use the word “Fascism” (but now he can)
BW Corner:
Attia Out
42:30 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 8 - 2:00 P.M.

Links:

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Ep. 100 - 'The Pitt' S2E07 Shows When Compassion Is Needed The Most

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:13:36 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt.

Why would Apple buy the rights to Severance? Will Paramount’s latest gambit to buy WBD succeed? And what the heck is going on with Stephen Colbert over at Late Night and his interview with James Talarico? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 8 (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

Links:

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Ep. 99 - 'The Pitt' S2E06 Shows What Happens When Doctors Rely on AI

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 09:59:41 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt.

What were our thoughts on this year’s Super Bowl ads and halftime show? How desperate is Paramount Skydance getting in its bid to take over Warner Bros? Are we looking forward to a Baldur’s Gate series? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 7 (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

02:00 - TV News
James Van Der Beek Has Passed Away
Bad Bunny Super Bowl show breaks records
Baldur’s Gate series in the works from Craig Maizin
Paramount says it will pay Paramount $650mm per quarter if takeover not completed by end of 2026
YouTube TV reveals pricing for lower-cost packages
They’re making an Eragon series for some reason
‘Heated Rivalry’ Reaches 10.6 Million Viewers in The U.S. With Audience Increasing by Over 100% Since Finale
‘A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 Sets An IMDB Score Record
52:40 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 6 - 12:00 P.M.

Links:

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Ep. 98 - Did 'Fallout' Season 2 Stick the Landing? (Plus: 'The Pitt' S2E05 Asks If You Need a Death Doula)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 09:33:07 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season finale of Fallout and the latest episode of The Pitt.

What do we think about The Last of Us ending with season 3? Was questioning Ted Sarandos a good use of our tax dollars? When can we expect to see another season of Pluribus? And what did we think of how Fallout season 2 wrapped up? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 6 (HBO Max)

Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):

02:00 - TV News
Catherine O’Hara Has Passed Away
The Last of Us Will Probably End With Season 3
Vince Gilligan offers update on Pluribus
Man on the Inside renewed
MST3K Revival is crushing it on Kickstarter
‘Stranger Things: Tales From ’85’ Trailer
Sarandos testifies before Congress
BW Corner:
CBS News Pulls ’60 Minutes’ Segment With Peter Attia
Battle royale between Paramount corporate and CBS News
38:49 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 5 - 11:00 A.M.
1:17:15 - Fallout Season 2 review

Links:

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Ep. 97 - Why 'Wonder Man' Might be Marvel's Best TV Show Ever (Plus: 'The Pitt' S2E04 Humbles Its Most Arrogant Character)

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:44:11 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Wonder Man and the latest episode of The Pitt.

What makes Wonder Man so extremely good? Should Alex Honnold have gotten paid more for his ascension of Taipei 101? Is CBS News going to get better by hiring more podcasters and bloggers? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 5 (HBO Max)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 8 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:00 - TV News
Bluey was number one in streaming minutes for the year
Alex Honnold’s ‘Skyscraper Live’ Hits 6.2 Million Views on Netflix
Alex Honnold was paid less than $1MM
Ratings
‘Shrinking’ Renewed for Season 4 at Apple TV
Ted Lasso Season 4
Stephen Colbert Reveals Date of Final ‘Late Show’ Episode
Bari Weiss Unveils Sweeping Vision: “I Am Here to Make CBS News Fit for Purpose in the 21st Century”
46:00 - Wonder Man series premiere
1:09:45 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 4 - 10:00 A.M.

Links:

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Ep. 96 - In 'The Pitt' S2E03, Things Are Not As They Seem (Plus: Initial Thoughts on 'Wonder Man')

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and Fallout.

What are our initial thoughts on Wonder Man and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms? What’s going on with the FCC’s efforts to enforce equal time provisions? Will Netflix be the only entertainment company left standing? And how long will it take for CBS Evening News to get run into the ground? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 4 (HBO Max)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 7 (Prime Video)
Wonder Man (however many episodes you want to, Disney+)

Shownotes:

03:45 - Initial thoughts on Wonder Man and Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
15:30 - TV News
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms pulls in 6.7mm viewers in first 3 days
The Abandons and Vince Staple Show both canceled
Netflix crosses 325 million subscribers
FCC Takes Aim at Political Interviews on Late-Night and Daytime Shows
A plethora of Bari Weiss profiles
49:30 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 3 - 9:00 A.M.
1:26:00 - Fallout Season 2
Episode 6 - The Other Player

Links:

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Ep. 95 - 'The Pitt' S2E02 Tests How Okay You Are With Needles

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:20:29 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and Fallout.

Are Tony Dokoupil’s CBS News ratings disastrous or merely bad? What’s the latest with Netflix’s attempted takeover of American culture? And what our big takeaways from George R. R. Martin’s recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 3 (HBO Max)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 6 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:45 - TV News
Tony Dokoupil’s ratings are bad
Netflix switches to all-cash bid amid trump accusations of Cultural Takeover (and Ted’s response)
First Look: Sophie Turner as Lara Croft and Ryan Hurst cast as Kratos
Euphoria Season 3 Trailer and Release Date (April 12)
Prime Video’s new Fallout shelter reality series
Mr. and Mrs. Smith Season 2 is back on track
George RR Martin’s interview with THR
1:00:33 - The Pitt Season 2
Episode 2 - 8:00 A.M.
1:34:45 - Fallout Season 2
Episode 5 - The Wrangler

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Why 'Heated Rivalry' Is Such a Big Deal (feat. Valentina Vee)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David is joined by filmmaker and cinematographer Valentina Vee to discuss the first season of Heated Rivalry on HBO Max.

Why has this show become a phenomenon? Why are women “feral” for the show? And why is it significant to the LGBTQ+ community in Russia and around the world? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Check out some of Valentina’s videos on Tiktok and Instagram.

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Ep. 94 - 'The Pitt' Season 2 Has So Much Confidence (feat. Sarah Marrs)

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 23:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season 2 premiere of The Pitt and season 2 episode 4 of Fallout.

Was there a secret final episode of Stranger Things all along? How’s the new CBS Evening News broadcast going these days? And who do we think will win the very first Legacy Award Emmy? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 2 (HBO Max)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 5 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:04 - TV News
‘Stranger Things 5’ Becomes Netflix’s No. 9 Most Popular English-Language Series of All Time With 105.7 Million Views So Far
The Pitt renewed for Season 3
‘The Lowdown’ Renewed for Season 2 at FX and Hulu
Emmys announce Legacy Award
Tony Dokoupil’s ‘CBS Evening News’ Debut Included a Big Flub, but You Won’t See It on Streaming — Here’s Why
29:38 - Stranger Things season 5 finale discussion
Conformity Gate
46:15 The Pitt Season 2
Episode 1 - 7:00 A.M.
1:53:40 - Fallout Season 2
Episode 4 - The Demon in the Snow

Links:

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Ep. 93 - Unpacking Your Theories and Reactions to Pluribus Season 1 (Plus: 'Fallout' Feels Like It's Spinning Its Wheels So Far)

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 19:35:28 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss your reactions to season 1 of Pluribus. Then, it’s time to catch up with Fallout Season 2.

What would we ask the Hive if we had the chance? What are our predictions for season 2 of Pluribus? And how is Fallout handling major lore like the Brotherhood of Steel? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Pitt Season 2 premiere (HBO Max)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 4 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

15:45 - Pluribus
Unpacking your theories and reactions to season 1
1:13:23 - Fallout Season 2
Episode 3 - The Profligate

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Did the 'Pluribus' Season Finale Stick the Landing?

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 14:43:44 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the Pluribus season 1 finale. Was this a satisfying conclusion to this season of television? What are the biggest payoffs from the episode? And what are we looking forward to in season 2?

We’ll be back next week with more thoughta on Fallout season 2, plus your reactions/theories/comments on the Pluribus finale!

Links:

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Ep. 92 - It's Fun to Be Back in the World of 'Fallout' (S2 Premiere) Again. PLUS: Pluribus S1E08 Puts Characters on a Collision Course

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:28:48 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the eighth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus and the season 2 premiere of Fallout.

The Oscars are moving to YouTube! What does this mean, exactly? Why did our respect for David Zaslav go up this week? And Pluribus is the most-watched show on Apple TV, but please do not ask any follow up questions. Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 9 (Apple TV)
Fallout Season 2 Episode 2 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:04 - TV News
Oscars Bolts from ABC to YouTube Starting in 2029
Warner Bros. Discovery Rejects Paramount $30/Share Offer
Pluribus is most watched show on Apple TV ever
30:40 - Pluribus
Episode 8 - Charm Offensive
1:17:23 - Fallout Season 2
Episode 1 - The Innovator

Links:

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Ep. 91 - 'Pluribus' S1E07 Might Be Its Most Effective Episode Yet

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:11:33 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the seventh episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.

What is our reaction to the big news that Netflix might acquire Warner Bros? Do we think Paramount can release 30 movies per year? Is David Ellison really just Kendall Roy? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 8 (Apple TV)
Fallout Season 2 Premiere (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

06:00 - TV News
Netflix to Acquire Warner Bros for $72 billion of equity value.
Hostile takeover bid from Paramount
Netflix says it will shorten theatrical windows
Paramount commits to 30 films per year
David Ellison’s embarrassing text
The Verge did a feature on the guy operating the vomit machine
Did a Pluribus ad trigger someone’s psychotic episode
54:00 - Pluribus
Episode 7 - The Gap

Links:

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Ep. 90 - What 'Pluribus' S1E06 Has In Common with 'Notting Hill'

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 10:51:33 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the sixth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.

Are we going to try to see the Stranger Things finale in theaters? What does the HBO Max/Mad Men debacle say about the world of streaming entertainment? Will Apple TV ever be able to stop pulling shows from its lineup? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 7 (Apple TV)

Shownotes:

04:30 - TV News
Stranger Things 5 Scores Netflix’s Second Biggest Premiere Ever for a Series
‘Stranger Things’ Finale
HBO Max’s Mad Men 4K release is the opposite of a remaster
Todd Vaziri’s analysis
The Hunt pulled from Apple TV for plagiarism allegations
Far Cry series is a go at FX with Rob Mac and Noah Hawley
43:30 - Pluribus
Episode 6 - HDP

Links:

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Bonus Ep: 'Pluribus' S1E05 Makes Us Wonder Where This Show Is Going

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:28:58 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss the fifth episode of Pluribus on Apple TV, ‘Got Milk.’

We hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving this week! This year, we are grateful for all your support and listenership.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 6 (Apple TV)

Links:

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Ep. 89 - 'Pluribus' S1E04 Tests the Limits of What's Possible in This World

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:32:02 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the fourth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.

Will HBO save Poker Face? Are we excited about a new season of The Chair Company? How many seasons will House of the Dragon end up getting? Who’s the least terrible option to buy Warner Bros? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 5 (Apple TV)

Shownotes:

0:00 - David’s viewing of The Beast in Me on Netflix
09:33 - TV News
Could HBO rescue Poker Face?
Tim Robinson’s ‘The Chair Company’ Renewed
I Love LA renewed for season 2
‘House Of The Dragon’ Renewed For Season 4 At HBO
DC Studios’ ‘Lanterns’ Pushed
‘Twisted Metal’ Renewed for Season 3
Warner Acquisition News
47:15 - Pluribus
Episode 4 - Please, Carol

Links:

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Ep. 88 - 'Pluribus' S1E03 Opens Up Some Dangerous Possibilities

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the third episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.

How do we feel about the imminent return of Alien: Earth, not to mention Shogun? Can Poker Face survive with a new Charlie Cale? And why are we so excited about a new show based off Jimmy Olsen? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 4 (Apple TV)

Shownotes:

Links:

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Ep. 87 - The 'Pluribus' Season Premiere Will Go Down in History

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 21:00:50 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.

How do we feel about Apple TV’s vibrant new brand identity? How do we feel about the brewing war between YouTube TV and Disney? And why will people be remembering the Pluribus season premiere for a long time to come? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Pluribus Episode 2 (Apple TV)

Shownotes:

05:02 - TV News
Apple TV temporarily melts down
Finneas made the new music for Apple TV
The new logo was done in-camera
YouTube TV pulls Disney channels
IT: Welcome to Derry ratings
Late Night News
Jon Stewart renewed for another year (through 2026)
Colbert weights in on his cancellation
43% of Gen Z prefer YouTube and Tiktok to traditional TV
48:08 - Pluribus
Episode 1 - We Is Us
Episode 2 - Pirate Lady

Links:

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Bonus Ep: 'Slow Horses' Season 5 Was a Blast

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:58:59 GMT

Dave and @joyonapping are back for another season of Slow Horses! In season 5, the focus is on Roddy Ho as he becomes ensnared in a vast terrorist conspiracy.

What were the biggest differences between the books and the show? Is the format of the show inherently in tension with its plotlines? Who were our MVPs this season? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Follow Joy on Threads
Email us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow us on Tiktok at tiktok.com/@decodingreality
Subscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything

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Bonus Ep: 'It: Welcome to Derry' Takes Some Big Swings. Is It Enough?

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 20:16:17 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss the season premiere of It: Welcome to Derry. What are the ways in which this show expands on the lore of the book? What did we make of the bold decisions at the end of the first episode? If this show starts at a 12, does it have anywhere to go? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework:

Slow Horses season 5 (Apple TV+)

Links:

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Bonus Ep: 'Gen V' Season 2 Was a Mixed Bag. Can This Show Thrive in a Post-'The Boys' Future?

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick are joined by Jessie Earl to discuss the second season of Gen V. Was this show able to overcome some of the clunkiness of the earlier episodes? What did we make of the show’s biggest twists this season? And can this show really survive and thrive in a future without The Boys? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Links:

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Bonus Ep: 'Task' Season 1 Delivered the Goods (with Kit Lazer)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:05:27 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David is joined by Kit Lazer to discuss the season finale of Task.

What made us love this show? Is it really too bleak for general audiences? What did the show do best? And what were some of its most memorable moments and characters? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 86 - 'The Chair Company' Reveals The Play-Acting We All Do (Plus: A 'Peacemaker' S2 Post-Mortem)

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of The Chair Company.

Does Tim Robinson find hidden comedy gold in the cushions of The Chair Company? Will video podcasts be a big thing on Netflix? Will the Apple TV rebrand make sense by the time you download this week’s podcast? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Bonus Episode: Task (HBO)
Bonus Episode: Slow Horses (Apple TV)
Bonus Episode: Long Story Short (Netflix)

Shownotes:

03:02 - TV News
Bari Weiss is the main segment on Last Week Tonight
Apple TV+ is now Apple TV
’Stranger Things’ Season 5, Volume 1 Runtimes Revealed
Netflix refuses to put the finale into theaters
M. Night's 8-ball
Tivo exits the hardware business
Splinter Cell Deathwatch Renewed
Netflix to Stream Selection of Spotify Video Podcasts Starting in 2026
52:00 - The Chair Company
Episode 1 - “Life goes by too fucking fast, it really does.”
1:17:56 - Peacemaker Season 2 post-mortem (with spoilers)

Links:

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Ep. 85 - Did 'Peacemaker' Season 2 Stick the Landing?

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season finale of Peacemaker.

Is CBS News doomed or extra-doomed? How on earth are we going to cover the final season of Stranger Things? And does the first trailer for Pluribus get us excited for Vince Gilligan’s newest show or not? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Chair Company (HBO)
Bonus Episode: Long Story Short (Netflix)

Shownotes:

02:32 - TV News
Bari Weiss Joins CBS News
The First ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Trailer Teases Our Next Return to Westeros
First Real Pluribus trailer
STRANGER THINGS Season 5 Will Feature 8 Feature-Length Episodes...And Boasts An Insanely High Budget
HRW cannot accept donations
36:00 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 8 - Full Nelson

Links:

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Ep. 84 - 'The Lowdown' Is a Fun Neo-Noir That Goes Down Easy (Plus: What 'Peacemaker' Has to Say about Nature vs. Nurture)

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:48:15 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the premiere of The Lowdown and the latest episode of Peacemaker.

Where was the balance of power in the Jimmy Kimmel situation? What do we think of how Fallon handled the whole thing? And why is there a conservative campaign to cancel Netflix? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 8 (HBO)
Bonus Episode: Long Story Short (Netflix)

Shownotes:

03:05 - TV News
UPDATE: Sinclair and Nextstar return Kimmel to air
Jimmy Fallon Plans to ‘Keep My Head Down’ and Avoid Politics on ‘The Tonight Show’: ‘We Hit Both Sides Equally’
‘Dead End: Paranormal Park’ Creator Receiving ‘Homophobic and Antisemitic Emails’ After Elon Musk Says ‘Cancel Netflix’ Due to Show’s Trans Character
Dave Chappelle Jokes It’s Easier to Talk in Saudi Arabia Than It Is In America
43:30 - The Lowdown
Episode 1 - Pilot
Episode 2 - The Devil’s Mama
Episode 3 - Dinosaur Memories
1:04:15 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 7 - Back to the Suture
1:31:58 - Alien: Earth spoiler feedback

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Is 'aka Charlie Sheen' a Good Documentary or Just Image Rehab? (with Christie Bosch)

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 20:44:55 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, David chats with Christie Bosch (AKA @thatdocumentarygirl) about the new Netflix documentary aka Charlie Sheen.

What were our biggest takeaways from this documentary? Why was the documentarian seemingly averse to experiencing human emotion? And is the documentary actually insightful or is it just a way for Charlie Sheen to rehab his personal image? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 83 - The 'Alien: Earth' Season Finale Was a Disaster (Plus: Peacemaker S2E06 Finally Picks Up the Pace)

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 07:01:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season finale of Alien: Earth. Later Dan Gvozden from the Amazing Spider-Talk podcast joins us to talk Peacemaker.

Homework for next week:

Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 7 (HBO)
Bonus Episode: aka Charlie Sheen (Netflix)
Bonus Episode: Long Story Short Season 1 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

02:30 - TV News
Duffer Brothers Explain Why They Left Netflix
Nate Bargatze defends his Emmys hosting
The Savant is postponed and Jessica Chastain responds
Disney/Hulu is hiking prices next month
Kimmel came back unless you live in one of 66 markets
47:30 - Alien: Earth
Episode 8 - The Real Monsters
1:18:00 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 6 - Ignorance is Chris

Links:

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Ep. 82 - The Test of a Free Society (Plus: Entering the Endgame of 'Alien: Earth' and 'Peacemaker')

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of Alien: Earth and Peacemaker.

What do we make of the (probable) cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel? Is Peacemaker just spinning its wheels these days? Will Alien: Earth end up being the show that was promised at the beginning? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 8 (Hulu/FX)
Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 6 (HBO)
Bonus Episode: Gen V Season 2 premiere (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

06:05 - TV News
Casey Bloys Talks ‘The Pitt’s Emmy Breakthrough & Putting HBO Doubts To Rest, Confirms ‘White Lotus’ S4 Location, Gives ‘HoD’ & ‘Rehearsal’ Updates
'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' Pulled From ABC / FCC Chair Threatens Jimmy Kimmel Over Charlie Kirk Monologue Comments
41:30 - Alien: Earth
Episode 7 - Emergence
1:02:15 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 5 - Back to the Suture

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Reacting to the 2025 Emmy Awards

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:10:43 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Myles McNutt from the Episodic Medium newsletter discuss the 2025 Emmy Awards (you can watch our live broadcast on YouTube here).

Which shows came away with some of the biggest wins? What were some of the night’s biggest upsets? And did the winners deserve their awards? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 81 - The Future Where Movies Are Just Disneys (Plus: Breaking Down The Latest 'Alien: Earth' and 'Peacemaker')

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of Alien: Earth and Peacemaker.

In the future where all media is consolidated, will movies just be called disneys like they were in Cloud Atlas? Why do we think David Zaslav hasn’t begun his war against password-sharing yet? And are we looking forward to another season of Big Little Lies? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 7 (Hulu/FX)
Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 5 (HBO)
Bonus Episode: The Paper Season 1 (Peacock)

Shownotes:

04:05 - TV News
Paramount Skydance Prepares Ellison-Backed Bid for Warner Bros. Discovery
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav on Why HBO Max Isn’t ‘Pushing’ Password-Sharing Crackdown Yet
Neil Druckmann on Leaving ‘The Last of Us,’ His New Game ‘Intergalactic’ and How Involved He’ll Be on Season 3: ‘My Job Is to Stay Very High Level’ (EXCLUSIVE)
‘Big Little Lies’ Season 3 Officially in the Works, Sets Francesca Sloane to Write
‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ Season 2 Delayed at Amazon
35:30 - Alien: Earth
Episode 4 - The Fly
1:02:15 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 4 - Need I Say Door
1:21:20 - Patrick’s reaction to Unknown Number: The High School Catfish (WITH SPOILERS)

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Unpacking the Shocking Revelations of 'Unknown Number: The High School Catfish' (feat. Christie Bosch)

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:02:57 GMT

Watch this conversation on YouTube.

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, David chats with Christie Bosch (AKA @thatdocumentarygirl) about the new Netflix documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish.

What was our overall reaction to the movie? How did we feel the film handle its subjects? And what details did the documentary leave out? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 80 - 'Alien: Earth' Ep 5 Is Wildly Entertaining (Plus: What's going On in Peacemaker's Alternate Dimension?)

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of Alien: Earth and Peacemaker.

Did The Rehearsal actually make a difference in airline safety? Is it possible to make sense of HBO’s rebranding? And why is Tom Rothman the last person who should be talking about studio execs? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 6 (Hulu/FX)
Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 4 (HBO)
Bonus Episode: The Paper Season 1 (Peacock)
Bonus Episode: Unknown Number: The High School Catfish (Netflix)

Shownotes:

03:05 - TV News
The Rehearsal may make our airlines safer after all
The Paper renewed in advance of premiere
White Lotus S3 will be set in France
HBO is rebranding everything
Tom Rothman says The Studio is not realistic
33:00 - Alien: Earth
Episode 3 - In Space, No One…
1:05:15 - Peacemaker Season 2
Episode 3 - Another Rick Up My Sleeve

Links:

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Ep. 79 - How 'Alien: Earth' Ep 4 Takes Aim at Tech Billionaires (Plus: 'Peacemaker' S2E02 and the Scourge of Bird Blindness)

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 07:01:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of Alien: Earth and Peacemaker.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 5 (Hulu/FX)
Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 3 (HBO)

Shownotes:

03:05 - TV News

Duffer Brothers Deal at Paramount
Streaming Access News:
Amazon, NBCU Make Peacock Available Via Prime Video Sign-Up
Apple TV+ Price Hike
Harry Potter News
New ‘Harry Potter’ Child Actors Should Stay Off Social Media
Chris Columbus Potter remake
Nic Pizzolatto-adjacent news segment
Netflix Nic Pizzolatto Show in Bidding War (Exclusive)
Cage in Talks to Star in HBO’s ‘True Detective’ Season 5

42:00 - Alien: Earth

Episode 3 - Metamorphosis

1:13:20 - Peacemaker Season 2

Episode 2 - A Man Is Only As Good As His Bird

Links:

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Bonus Ep: 'Peacemaker' Season 2 Is One of the Most Interesting TV Crossovers Ever

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 18:23:36 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss the season 2 premiere of Peacemaker, “The Ties that Grind.”

The first season of Peacemaker emerged in a totally different era of the DCU. This new season straddles the line between them. How well does it pull this off? How do the themes of the episode mirror what’s going on in the DCU? And do we think you should watch Peacemaker with your children? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 78 - 'Alien: Earth' S1E03 and the Infinite Cyborg Sadness

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:31:16 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the third episode of Alien: Earth.

What do we think of MSNBC’s rebrand to MS Now? Is it a bad sign that Ben Stiller won’t be directing season 3 of Severance? Can YouTubers like Mark Rober successfully make the move to Netflix? And how is Alien: Earth shaping up as a series? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 4 (Hulu/FX)
Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 1 (HBO)
Bonus Ep: Smoke Season 1 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

09:22 - TV News
MSNBC Rebrand to ‘MS NOW’ Draws Derision, Confusion
Ben Stiller Won’t Direct ‘Severance’ Season 3, Plans World War II Survival Movie: ‘You Only Have So Much Time’
Mark Rober and Netflix team up for competition series
‘Dept. Q’ Renewed for Second Season at Netflix
‘Fallout’ Season 2 Sets December Premiere; First Look Photos Show the Ghoul in New Vegas
46:30 - Alien: Earth
Episode 3 - Metamorphosis

Links:

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An Interview with the Winner of 'Wings of Voice' on Nathan Fielder's 'The Rehearsal' (feat. Isabella Henao)

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Watch the video version of this podcast.

This podcast contains SPOILERS for The Rehearsal Season 2 on HBO.

The Rehearsal Season 2 chronicles Nathan Fielder’s attempts to understand why aviation accidents happen. According to Fielder, one major factor is that pilots are unwilling to communicate candidly with each other, especially when they disagree or have bad news to deliver.

To test this theory, Fielder used his resources from The Rehearsal to create a fictional(?) aviation-themed singing competition called Wings of Voice. In this competition, pilots judged singers performances, advanced the ones they liked, and were forced to break the bad news to some contestants that they were eliminated. The idea was that by forcing them to break singers’ hearts, the process would reveal something about what it takes to be a good communicator.

I used a “(?)” next to “fictional” above because even though contestants on Wings of Voice were occasionally made the butt of the joke on The Rehearsal and the competition never aired as its own TV show, the winner of the competition still received something of value: the privilege of performing a song for HBO’s audience on national television.

Today I’m speaking with the winner of that competition, Isabella Henao. As a fellow musician, I thought Henao crushed her performance of Evanescence’s “Bring Me To Life” in the culminating moments of season two. And as someone who is endlessly fascinated by how much of Fielder’s stunts are “real,” I was thrilled to get an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to go through Fielder’s shenanigans as they happen. Henao spoke with me about what it was like to go through the audition process, what contestants were actually told about what was happening, what other contestants’ thought about the whole thing, and how being on The Rehearsal changed her life.

This interview has been edited and condensed for brevity and clarity. To listen to a fuller version of the conversation, check out the podcast/video above. If you want to learn more about Isabella, check out her website.

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Ep. 77 - 'Alien: Earth' Is a Bold, Exciting Direction for the Franchise (with Matt Goldberg)

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:35:09 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Matt Goldberg discuss what we think of the Alien franchise is at this point in popular culture. Then, we review and recap the first two episodes of Alien: Earth on FX/Hulu.

What did we think of the bold new premise for the show? Does it look like they spent $250 million to bring this to life? (Yes). What did we make of the fact that the show splits its attention between two major plotlines? And what about all the information that’s revealed about the main characters in the first two episodes? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Be sure to check out Matt’s written review for Decoding TV.

Homework for next week:

Alien: Earth Episode 3 (FX/Hulu)

Shownotes:

01:30 - What we think of the state of the Alien franchise
15:00 - Alien: Earth
Episode 1 - Neverland
Episode 2 - Mr. October

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Does 'Untamed' Have Anything Going For It Beyond Its Unique Setting? (with Sarah Marrs)

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss Untamed’s first season on Netflix. What did we think of how this show handled its central mystery? Were we captivated by any of the characters’ side plots? How did the show take advantage of its unique setting? And where do we think the second season of Untamed should be set? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next episode:

Alien: Earth season premiere (Hulu)

Links:

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Ep. 76 - 'Twisted Metal' Season 2 Is One of the Most Juvenile, Goofy Things on TV (Complimentary)

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the first few episodes of Twisted Metal Season 2 on Peacock.

What did we think of South Park’s provocative season 27 premiere? How excited are we for the possibility of a Wolfenstein TV show? And what do we make of the details about Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus that have dropped so far? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Untamed Season 1 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

10:00 - TV News
South Park Premiere puts Donald Trump in bed with Satan
Wolfenstein TV series in development
Rick and Morty spin-off resident Curtis spin-off announced at Comic-Con
Apple sets fall release for Pluribus
WBD announces the new (very silly) names for their companies
49:48 - Twisted Metal Season 2
Episode 1 - PRSRPNT
Episode 2 - DOLF4C3
Episode 3 - T3STDRV

Links:

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Ep. 75 - 'Smoke' Is Pulpy Fun. Is It Anything More?

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

n this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the first five episodes of Smoke on Apple TV+.

Was the cancellation of the Late Show financially motivated or were political considerations involved? Are the price hikes at Peacock reasonable or out of control? And what do we think about how The Last of Us might wrap up? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Twisted Metal Season 2 Premiere (Peacock)

Shownotes:

04:30 - TV News
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is cancelled
Peacock’s Biggest Price Increase Ever
The Last of US Season 3 will take place in 2027 and will probably be the end of the show
45:30 - Smoke
Episode 1 - Pilot
Episode 2 - Your Happy Makes Me Sad
Episode 3 - Weird Milk
Episode 4 - Strawberry
Episode 5 - Size Matters

Links:

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Ep. 74 - 'The Bear' Season 4 Is a Return to Form

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the fourth season of The Bear.

What is behind the President’s hatred of Rosie O’Donnell? Is Squid Game: The Challenge as abominable as it sounds? What were the biggest streaming shows in the first half of 2025? And did The Bear season 4 improve upon what we saw in season 3? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Smoke Season 1 eps 1-5 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Breaking Down the 2025 Emmy Nominations (with Myles McNutt)

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:33:45 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Myles McNutt from the Episodic Medium newsletter discuss the 2025 Emmy nominations (you can watch our live broadcast on YouTube here).

Which shows came away with some of the biggest nominations? Why do the “Guest Actor” categories continue to be a travesty? What were the biggest snubs? And was this overall a shameful year for the Emmys or did we experience less shame? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 73 - 'Squid Game' Season 3 Ends with a Whimper

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the final season of Squid Game.

How is Squid Game Season 3 performing on Netflix? What did we make of the fact that Neil Druckmann has left The Last of Us? What’s going on with the creators of South Park and Paramount/Skydance? And are we excited about another season of The Bear? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Bear Season 4 (Hulu)

Shownotes:

Links:

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Bonus Ep: How 'Ironheart' Brings Marvel's Phase 5 to a Close (with Dan Gvozden)

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, Dan Gvozden joins the podcast to review and discuss the final three episodes of Ironheart on Disney+:

Episode 4 - Bad Magic
Episode 5 - Karma’s a Glitch
Episode 6 - The Past is the Past

How did the show handle the arc of Riri Williams? What did we make of that big cameo at the end? And what do we think is coming next for the MCU? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Squid Game Season 3 (Netflix)

Links:

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Ep. 72 - 'Ironheart' Is a Mess of Ideas That's (Probably) Not Gonna Come Together

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the first three episodes of Ironheart on Disney+.

Does the Showtime name still have any meaning in our current streaming environment? Did Andor season 2 get more viewers than season 1? And why did The Last of Us season 2 have fewer viewers? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Ironheart Eps 4-6 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

07:30 - TV News
Paramount+ with Showtime is now Paramount Premium
‘Mindhunter’ May Return as Three Movies, Star Holt McCallany Reveals
Andor concludes with number 1 overall ranking on Nielsen
The Last of Us Ratings Declined During Season 2 but Why
35:02 - Ironheart Eps 1-3
Episode 1 - Take Me Home
Episode 2 - Will the Real Natalie Please Stand Up?
Episode 3 - We in Danger, Girl

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Dept. Q Season 1 (with Sarah Marrs)

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss Dept. Q's first season on Netflix. What did we think of how this show handled its central mystery? Did any of the subplots work well for us? What about the red herrings? Was Matthew Goode, well, any good as the lead? How excited are we for the prospect of a second season of Dept. Q? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next episode:

Ironheart season premiere (Disney+)

Links:

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Bonus Ep: How Director Dan Trachtenberg Put Together 'Predator: Killer of Killers'

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, David chats with director Dan Trachtenberg about how Predator: Killer of Killers (now streaming on Hulu) came together. Dan discusses why they chose the time periods they did, the challenges of putting together an anthology film based around the Predator in different time periods, and what his favorite action moments are from the film.

Homework for next episode:

Dept Q (Netflix)

Links:

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Ep. 71 - 'Predator: Killer of Killers' Is a Thrilling (But Brief) Visit to the Predator Universe

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss the differences between the Invincible and Game of Thrones videogames (and why the former will probably be way more successful), muse on the plight of Warner Bros Discovery, and lament the loss of press freedom in the American media. Then, it’s time to dive into Dan Trachtenberg’s latest Predator entry, Killer of Killers, now streaming on Hulu.

Be sure to stay tuned for a bonus interview with Dan Trachtenberg coming in the next week.

Homework for next week:

Dept Q (Netflix)

Shownotes:

08:50 - TV News
Videogame News:
New Game of Thrones PC Strategy Game to Launch in 2026
Invincible Vs: A New fighting Game set in the Invincible universe
Warner Bros Discovery to split into two companies
Terry Moran suspended at ABC News
49:30 - Predator: Killer of Killers review

Links:

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Ep. 70 - 'Mountainhead' Tries to Skewer Billionaire Tech Bros. Does It Succeed? (Plus: 'Rehearsal' and 'Last of Us' Follow-Ups)

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss Succession creator Jesse Armstrong’s latest HBO original, Mountainhead. Does it do a good job of satirizing the billionaire tech class? Will Nic Pizzolatto ever write a True Detective episode again? And why do we feel sympathy for the new kids cast as the main Harry Potter characters? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Predator: Killer of Killers (Hulu)

Shownotes:

03:40 - TV News
‘Harry Potter’ HBO Series Casts Harry, Ron and Hermione
‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Gets Three-Part Release, Series Finale Set for New Year’s Eve
‘True Detective’ Creator Nic Pizzolatto Has a “Story” for Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson to Reprise Cohle and Hart: They’re “Open to It”
28:00 - Mountainhead review
58:45 - The Rehearsal Season 2 Follow-Ups
1:11:00 - The Last of Us Season 2 Follow-Ups

Links:

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Ep. 69 - 'The Last of Us' Season 2 Finale Was a Messy Disappointment (But 'The Rehearsal' Finale Wasn't!)

Tue, 27 May 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick are joined by Christian Spicer to dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

Why was The Last of Us season finale such a disappointment? What were some of the most memorable moments? What two narrative crimes did the episode commit? And why was The Rehearsal so exhilarating by comparison? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Mountainhead (HBO)

Shownotes:

03:00 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 7 - Convergence
1:01:00 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 6 - My Controls

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Andor Season 2 Post-Mortem (with Patrick Willems)

Sun, 25 May 2025 15:40:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss some follow-ups to their podcast series about Andor season 2.

Why did Tony Gilroy feel the need to delineate the true nature of Kleya and Luthen’s relationship? What about Mon Mothma’s relationship with her husband and daughter? And what do we think of the possibility of Jyn Erso and Leia cameos in Andor season 2? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 68 - 'The Last of Us' S2E06 Might Be Its Best Episode Ever

Tue, 20 May 2025 06:16:48 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

Is Max’s rebrand back to HBO Max one of the worst instances of corporate brand destruction ever? Are we excited about the new Alien: Earth series launching this summer? And why does David hate the marketing for James Gunn’s Superman so much? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 7 (HBO)
The Rehearsal Season 2 episode 6 (HBO)

Shownotes:

06:30 - TV News
HBO Max Lives! Max to Change Its Name Back After Two Years
‘Alien: Earth’ Sets August Release Date Plus 10 Images and Plot Details Revealed
‘Fallout’ Renewed for Season 3 Ahead of Season 2 Premiere in December
‘Game of Thrones’ Spinoff ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Shifts to 2026 Release
39:30 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 6 - The Price
1:14:00 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 5 - Washington

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Andor Season 2 Eps 10-12 (with Patrick Willems)

Thu, 15 May 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick Willems discuss the final three episodes of Andor Season 2:

Ep 10 - Make It Stop
Ep 11 - Who Else Knows?
Ep 12 - Jedha, Kyber, Erso

What did we think of how this show connected to the events of Rogue One? Were we happy with how the show wrapped up the stories of characters like Bix and Luthen? What are our closing thought on the series as a whole? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

You can also watch our convo on YouTube:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 67 - In 'The Last of Us' S2E05, Fear Leads to Anger and Anger Leads to Hate

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

It feels like there’s not gonna be enough time to tell a complete story in this season of The Last of Us. Where does episode 5 leave our characters? Is there any possibility the Harry Potter PR tour is going to turn around? Are we excited about a revamp of the Netflix homepage? And did we really need to launch a Max app in the first place? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 6 (HBO)
The Rehearsal Season 2 episode 5 (HBO)

Shownotes:

01:30 - TV News
‘Shogun’ Season 2 to Begin Production in January 2026
Netflix Plans Major Overhaul of Homepage Design, OpenAI-Powered Search and TikTok-Style Vertical Feeds
Max Purges Over 200 Seasons of Television As It Pivots Back to the HBO Brand
J.K. Rowling Says ‘I Wouldn’t’ Fire Paapa Essiedu From HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ for Supporting Trans Rights: ‘I Don’t Have the Power’ and ‘Wouldn’t Exercise It If I Did’
HBO Exec Promises ‘Harry Potter’ Series ‘Not Secretly Being Infused’ With J.K. Rowling’s Anti-Trans Rhetoric
38:00 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 5 - Feel Her Love
1:11:00 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 4 - Kissme

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Andor Season 2 Eps 7-9 (with Patrick Willems)

Thu, 08 May 2025 14:49:04 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick Willems discuss the next three episodes of Andor Season 2:

Ep 7 - Messenger
Ep 8 - Who Are You?
Ep 9 - Welcome to the Rebellion?

This batch probably has some of the most intense action in Star Wars ever put to film. We also got some actual Star Wars references to things like the Force and other iconography. What did we think of Syril Karn’s arc this season? How did we feel about Mon Mothma’s big moment? Have stormtroopers and droids ever looked more terrifying? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 66 - Why 'The Rehearsal' Had Us Screaming At Our TV (Plus: 'The Last of Us' Hits Seattle)

Tue, 06 May 2025 01:24:10 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

What do we think of The Last of Us’s depiction of Seattle? How did we feel about how this week’s episode moved Ellie and Dina’s relationship along? And was Nathan Fielder’s The Rehearsal this week an act of insanity of genius? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 5 (HBO)
The Rehearsal Season 2 episode 4 (HBO)

Shownotes:

01:00 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 4 - Day One
46:30 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 3 - Pilot’s Code

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Andor Season 2 Eps 4-6 (with Patrick Willems)

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick Willems discuss the next three episodes of Andor Season 2:

Ep 4 - Ever Been to Ghorman?
Ep 5 - I Have Friends Everywhere
Ep 6 - What a Festive Evening

We’ll be doing a podcast episode for each of the four Andor drops.

This batch introduces us to the world of Ghorman. What parallels is the show trying to draw between the Ghormans and our world? Have we ever seen Luthen more light-hearted than in these episodes? And how do we feel about the state of the Karn/Meero #karntent at this point? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 65 - 'The Last of Us' S2E03 Is the Calm Before the Storm

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, then dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

Is Max a streaming service that is impossible to cancel? Why is Netflix so opposed to theatrical filmgoing? And what responsibility do actors have in accepting roles for shows with controversial figures involved? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 4 (HBO)
The Rehearsal Season 2 episode 3 (HBO)

Shownotes:

01:30 - TV News
Max prepares to crack down on password sharing
Bill Hader to Co-Write, Potentially Star in Jonestown Series in Development at HBO
60 Minutes explains the resignation of Bill Owens
Ted Sarandos says stuff
John Lithgow Didn’t Expect Backlash
35:30 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 3 - The Path
1:08:00 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 2 - Star Potential

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Our Favorite Characters and Subplots in 'The Pitt' Season 1

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss what they thought of The Pitt’s debut season, what their favorite subplots were, and what they’d like to see in a second season of the show (which has already been renewed).

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Andor Season 2 Eps 1-3 (with Patrick Willems)

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:34:13 GMT

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Willems returns to the podcast to discuss the first three episodes of Andor Season 2. We’ll be doing an episode for each of the four Andor drops.

This season has a much different feel than the first season. What are our thoughts on the structure of the show so far? What did we think of each of the separate plotlines? How do we feel about Disney’s release strategy for the season? And most importantly: Is the Karntent this season any good? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

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Ep. 64 - Is 'The Rehearsal' Season 2 Another Masterpiece? (Also: Reacting to This Week's 'The Last of Us' Ep)

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Stay tuned for a spoiler-filled bonus episode later this week where we compare The Last of Us videogame with the show.

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, then dive into the latest episodes of The Last of Us and The Rehearsal.

Does a Pacific Rim TV show sound like a good idea?Do we think Ryan Coogler will do a good job rebooting The X-Files? And what do we make of the unfolding situation with Harry Potter casting? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 3 (HBO)
The Rehearsal Season 2 episode 2 (HBO)
Bonus Ep: The Pitt Season 1 (Max)

Shownotes:

01:30 - Checking in on Daredevil: Born Again and The Pitt
06:46 - TV News
‘Pacific Rim’ Series Lands at Amazon
Ryan Coogler’s X-Files series appears to still be happening
New Harry Potter cast revealed
27:30 - The Last of Us Season 2
Ep 2 - Through the Valley
1:09:30 - The Rehearsal Season 2
Ep 1 - Gotta Have Fun

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Ranking Every Episode of 'Black Mirror' Season 7 (with Jessie Earl)

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, David is joined by Jessie Earl to discuss the latest season of Black Mirror on Netflix. Did we think this season was a solid one? What were our favorite episodes? What were our least favorite? And does Black Mirror still have something new to say given how society’s views on technology have evolved? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Bonus Ep: Comparing 'The Last of Us' Season 2 Premiere With The Videogame

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 19:06:31 GMT

NOTE: This episode contains massive SPOILERS for The Last of Us Part II videogame, which you should assume will also spoil the TV show. Listener beware.

In this bonus episode, David, Patrick, and Christian Spicer discuss how the season 2 premiere of The Last of Us compares with The Last of Us Part II videogame. What were some of the biggest changes they made? How effective do we think those changes were? And what are some of the predictions we have for how this season will play out? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Ep. 63 - 'The Last of Us' Season 2 Premiere Presents Intriguing Storytelling Possibilities

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Stay tuned for a spoiler-filled bonus episode later this week where we compare The Last of Us videogame with the show.

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, then Christian Spicer joins us for a dive into The Last of Us season 2 premiere.

Are we excited about the possibility of another season of Adolescence? What do we think of how The Last of Us is pacing its story? And why is The White Lotus pissing so many people off? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Last of Us Season 2 episode 2 (HBO)
Bonus Ep: Black Mirror Season 7 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

03:30 - TV News

Last of Us Renewed for season 3
Adolescence ratings and season 2 possibilities
The White Lotus is pissing off all kinds of people:
Pina Colada collab
Duke wants no part of White Lotus
Composer backlash

23:00 - The Last of Us Season 2

Ep 1 - Future Days

Links:

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Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E08 - "Amor Fati"

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins David to discuss episode 8 of The White Lotus season 3.

How do we rank this season of The White Lotus compared to the others? What did we make of who ends up dying and who ends up making it all the way to the end? And which storylines this season were most satisfying? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Seth Rogen's 'The Studio' Is a Blast (Plus: A Look Back at Robert Altman's 'The Player')

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Patrick chat about Seth Rogen’s hilarious new show on Apple TV+, The Studio. Then, Matt Goldberg from

Commentary Track joins to discuss Robert Altman’s 1992 films The Player and how it compares with how Hollywood sees itself today.Links:

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Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E07 - "Killer Instincts"

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins David to discuss episode 7 of The White Lotus season 3.

Would we accept a $100,000 bribe to keep quiet about whatever the heck Gary/Greg did last season? Or would it need to have a couple more zeroes? Why didn’t Rick take improv classes or at least use IMDB before the events of this week’s episode? Who do we think is going to be killed in next week’s episode? And who will be the gunman? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

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Ep. 62 - Why 'Adolescence' Is Essential Viewing (Plus: Your 'Severance' Theories and Reactions)

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 12:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss the Netflix series Adolescence, then dive into your reactions and theories about Severance season 2.

What did we make of the one-take filmmaking of Adolescence? Was the journey through the show worth the pain? And what about the end of Severance season 2? What did we think about the other possible endings there could have been? Did the Ms. Cobel storyline actually make more sense than we gave it credit for? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

The Studio (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

3:15 - Adolescence Episodes 1-4 on Netflix
1:08:15 - Severance Season 2 Post-Mortem

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E06 - "Denials"

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins David to discuss episode 6 of The White Lotus season 3.

What do we think is going to happen to Timothy, anyway? Is Jaclyn really as bad as she seems? Does Chloe recognize how lucky she is to have Gary/Greg? And what are we looking forward to most in the final two episodes? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

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Ep. 61 - Was The 'Severance' Season 2 Finale a Masterpiece?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, discuss the latest episode of Daredevil: Born Again, and dive into the Severance Season 2 finale.

This season of Severance was probably one of the best seasons of television in recent memory. Did the finale stick the landing? What were some of the plotlines this season that really paid off? What could the show have spent more time on? And was the finale, ultimately, a masterpiece? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Adolescence (Netflix)
Bonus Ep: Invincible Season 3 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:30 - TV News
‘Ted Lasso’ Season 4 A Go With Jason Sudeikis & Women’s Team; Juno Temple In Negotiations To Join Returning Cast As Apple Series Heads To Kansas
Oscars: Conan O’Brien to Return as Host in 2026
Simpsons Chronological Stream
16:50 - Severance Season 2
Ep 10 - Cold Harbor
1:40:35- Daredevil: Born Again
Ep 4 -Sic Semper Sigma

Links:

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Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E05 - "Full-Moon Party"

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins David to discuss the episodes 5 of The White Lotus season 3.

What did we make of Jason Isaacs’ reactions to the questions about his full frontal moment last week? Is Timothy going to make it out of this season unscathed? Is Gaitok totally worthless? And what were our reactions to that incredible monologue? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

We’ll be back next week to cover more White Lotus!

Links:

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Ep. 60 - How 'Severance' S2E09 Sets Up The Finale

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:12:47 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, discuss the latest episode of Daredevil: Born Again, and dive into Severance Season 2 episode 9.

What are the ways in which this week’s Severance sets up the finale? What would Ms. Cobel’s favorite Twilight Zone episode be? And what do we think of how Daredevil: Born Again is shaping up? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 10 (Apple TV+)
Daredevil: Born Again Episode 4 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

01:00 - TV News
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Launches With 7.5 Million Views o Disney+
Jon Bernthal on “Dark” Upcoming ‘Punisher’ Special: “It Will Not Be Punisher-Lite, I Promise You That”
‘Andor’ First Season Now Streaming on Hulu and for Free on YouTube
Poker Face Season 2 details
14:00 - Severance Season 2
Ep 9 - The After Hours
1:13:00- Daredevil: Born Again
Ep 3 - The Hollow of His Hand

Links:

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Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E03-E04 - "The Meaning of Dreams" and "Hide or Seek"

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 16:15:29 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins us to discuss the episodes 3-4 of The White Lotus season 3. What are our favorite subplots so far? What do we think the show is trying to say about white people and how they latch onto foreigners’ ways of life? What do we think of some of the reveals from this batch of episodes? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

We’ll be back to cover at least one additional batch of White Lotus episodes.

Links:

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Ep. 59 - 'Daredevil: Born Again' Gets Off to a Rough Start

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television, discuss the new Daredevil series, and dive into Severance Season 2 episode 8.

What did we think of the Oscars? Is Kathleen Kennedy really retiring from Star Wars? Could this week’s episode of Severance been an email instead? And how good is Daredevil: Born Again at welcoming in new viewers? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 9 (Apple TV+)
Daredevil: Born Again Episode 2 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

00:30 - TV News
What did we think of the Oscars?
Kathleen Kennedy gives interview about career plans
23:33 - Severance Season 2
Ep 8 - Sweet Vitriol
1:04:55 - Daredevil: Born Again
Ep 1 - Heaven’s Half Hour
Ep 2 - Optics

Links:

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Ep. 58 - 'Severance' S2E07 Was Mind-Blowing

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television and dive into Severance Season 2 episode 7.

What do we make of Kathleen Kennedy’s stint as Lucasfilm boss? Are we excited about Andor’s episode release schedule? How’s Patrick’s rewatch of Daredevil season 3 going? And what made this week’s episode of Severance so remarkable? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 8 (Apple TV+)
Daredevil: Born Again Season premiere (Disney+)

Shownotes:

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: The White Lotus S3E01-E02 - "Same Spirits, New Forms" and "Special Treatments"

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first of 3-4 conversations we’ll have about The White Lotus season 3!

In this episode, Sarah Marrs (Film critic and deputy editor at LaineyGossip.com) joins us to discuss the first two episodes of the new season. What do we make of the updated setting in Thailand this year? Are Jaclyn’s friends really the best she can do? Is Saxon Ratliff one of the worst characters ever? Did they finally figure out a way to make Walton Goggins unlikable? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

We’ll be back to cover episodes 3-4 of The White Lotus in a couple weeks.

Links:

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Ep. 57 - In 'Severance' S2E06, Work Is About Suppressing Your True Self

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 17:01:56 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television and share some thoughts on the first few episodes of Invincible season 3. Then, it’s time to dive into Severance Season 2 episode 6.

What do we think about Invincible Season 3? Is The Pitt actually one of the best shows on TV right now? And why is this week’s Severance an incredible example of sci-fi storytelling? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 7 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

04:20 - Invincible Season 3
12:45 - TV News
SNL’s 50th Anniversary
‘The Pitt’ Renewed for Season 2 at Max
‘The Rings of Power’ Officially Renewed for Season 3, Plans Major Time Jump
‘The Last of Us’ Season 2 Sets April Release Date on HBO
29:00 - Severance Season 2
Ep 6 - Attila

Links:

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Ep. 56 - What 'Severance' S2E05 Has To Say About Corporate Culture

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 17:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television. Then, it’s time to dive into Severance Season 2 episode 5.

Is Peter Morgan’s next Netflix project going to be one of the most unhinged things ever? Would we marry people who have the same first and last name as us? And what does Severance have to say about employee performance reviews, anyway? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 6 (Apple TV+)
Invincible Season Premiere (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

03:00 - TV News
Super Bowl Sets All-Time Ratings Record for Second Straight Year
Jeremy Strong to Star in Boys from Brazil remake by Peter Morgan
‘Taylor Lautner: Werewolf Hunter’ TV Series in Development at Amazon MGM Studios
‘Euphoria’ Season 3 First Look: Zendaya Returns as Rue as Production Starts on Long-Delayed HBO Series
26:30 - Severance Season 2
Ep 5 - Trojan’s Horse

Links:

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Ep. 55 - 'Severance' S2E04: Panic! at the ORTBO

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 18:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television. Then, it’s time to dive into Severance Season 2 episode 4.

Why are we hopeful for a new Buffy the Vampire Slayer? What are some of the biggest trends going on right now in the world of TV and streaming (according to Luminate)? Is Patrick looking forward to Ted Lasson season 4? And what did we make of some of the big twists of this week’s episode of Severance? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 5 (Apple TV+)
Invincible Season Premiere (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

02:30 - TV News
‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Reboot With Sarah Michelle Gellar in the Works at Hulu
Disney Earnings Boosted by ‘Moana 2,’ Disney+ Loses 700,000 Subscribers as Streaming Business Swings to Another Profit
Streamers Set to Outspend Commercial Broadcasters for First Time This Year, Report Claims
Luminate’s End of Year Report
Ted Lasso Season 4 details
28:15 - Severance Season 2
Ep 4 - Woe’s Hollow

Links:

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Ep. 54 - 'Severance' S2E03 Goes There

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:43:39 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television. Then, it’s time to dive into Severance Season 2 episode 3.

Has the term “woke” lost all meaning (especially as it applies to Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man)? How excited are we for the next season of Squid Game? Is Beyond: Two Souls going to make for a good TV series? And what did we make of some of the big twists of this week’s episode of Severance? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 4 (Apple TV+)
Bonus Ep: The Agency Season 1 (Paramount+)

Shownotes:

07:00 - TV News
Squid Game Season 3 Date: June 27
Spider-Man Voice Actor Says His ‘Biggest Fear’ Was the New Disney+ Series ‘Was Gonna Be Annoying and Woke’
‘Beyond: Two Souls’ Video Game Getting TV Series Adaptation By Elliot Page’s Pageboy
Reginald VelJohnson debunks Dave Chappelle
37:00 - Severance Season 2
Ep 3 - Who’s Still Alive?

Links:

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Ep. 53 - 'Severance' S2E02 Takes Us Back to the End of Season 1

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 20:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of television. Then, it’s time to dive into the latest episode of Severance.

Is anyone even talking about Squid Game season 2? Are people going to cancel Netflix after their latest price hike? Are we excited about Daredevil: Born Again? And what did we make of the latest episode of Severance, especially in light of what happened last episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 3 (Paramount+)

Shownotes:

04:45 - TV News
Netflix:
Netflix Adds Nearly 19 Million Subscribers to End 2024 With More Than 300 Million Globally
Another Netflix price hike
‘Squid Game 2’ Becomes Netflix’s Third Most-Watched Season Ever, After ‘Squid Game 1’ and ‘Wednesday’
Daredevil: Born Again trailer
FBI: CIA
30:15- Severance Season 2
Ep 2 - Goodbye, Mrs. Selvig

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Ep. 52 - 'Severance' Season 2 Is Still One of the Best Shows on TV

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss some of your listener feedback about The Pitt. Then, it’s time to dive into Severance Season 2!

The second season sees things at Lumon largely return to the status quo. What happened in the time since the last season ended? How did we feel about the timeframe where the season picks up? What mysteries are we most interested in seeing the show explore this season? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 Episode 2

Shownotes:

07:00 - Severance Season 2
Ep 1 - Hello, Ms. Cobel

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Did The 'Skeleton Crew' Finale Land The Ship? (Plus: Revisiting the 'Severance' Season 1 Finale)

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:00:11 GMT

In this episode, Patrick and David discuss the finale of Skeleton Crew and revisit the season 1 finale of Severance.

Skeleton Crew was a fun show. But was it anything more? How did we feel about the show’s handling of Jod’s arc? Or the kids’ arcs? Now that you mention it: Did any of these characters even have arcs? Also, we revisit Severance’s season 1 finale. Is it still one of the greatest episodes of television ever made? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Severance Season 2 premiere (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

01:30 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 8 - The Real Good Guys
43:30 - Severance Season 1
Ep 9 - The We We Are

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 51 - Is It Worth Descending Into 'The Pitt'?

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of TV, then dive into the seventh episode of Skeleton Crew and the season premiere of The Pitt.

The Franchise was cancelled! Is season 1 of the show still worth watching? Are we hopeful for a Shogun season 2? Are we excited about the possibility of a Squid Game cinematic universe? What did we think of the new Max original series The Pitt and how does it compare to ER? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew Ep 8 (Disney+)
Bonus Ep: Severance Season 1 finale

Shownotes:

04:30 - TV News
Apple TV+ Brings ‘Severance’ Season One to Roku Channel in Subscriber Push
Superhero Movie Satire Series ‘The Franchise’ Canceled by HBO
‘The Last of Us’ Season 2 to Debut in April; Columbia Pictures and Sony PlayStation Developing ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’ Movie (Helldivers 2 movie)
‘Shogun’ Season 2 Update: Producers Reveal That Writers’ Room Ends In Six Weeks
‘Squid Game’ Spinoffs? Creator of Netflix Hit Has Multiple Ideas
36:30 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 7 - We’re Gonna Be In So Much Trouble
57:00 - The Pitt
Ep 1 - 7:00 A.M.
Ep 2 - 8:00 A.M.

Links:

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Ep. 50 - 'Squid Game' Season 2 Is a Worthy Follow-Up, But Where's Season 3?

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 02:00:28 GMT

It’s a recap-only episode of the podcast as Patrick and David dive into the latest episode of Skeleton Crew and finish their conversation about Squid Game season 2.

Why does Skeleton Crew keep insisting on splitting up Jude Law and the kids? Does the show’s After School Special mentality work in the universe of Star Wars? Does Squid Game season 2 feel like a cash grab? Or does it actually have something to say? And what are our thoughts on where things ended and the plotlines open for season 3? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week (next week’s episode will be released a day later than usual):

Skeleton Crew Ep 7 (Disney+)
The Pitt

Shownotes:

22:30 - What you should watch for Apple TV+’s free weekend
25:00 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 6 - Zero Friends Again
42:30 - Squid Game Season 2
Ep 2 - Halloween Party
Ep 3 - 001
Ep 4 - Six Legs
Ep 5 - One More Game
Ep 6 - O X
Ep 7 - Friend or Foe

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 49 - 'Squid Game' (Season 2) Returns with a Bang

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 19:28:49 GMT

It’s a recap-only episode of the podcast as Patrick and David dive into the latest episode of Skeleton Crew and catch the season premiere of Squid Game season 2.

Is this week’s episode of Skeleton Crew the best one yet? What homages did we spot to Indiana Jones? And what did we think of Squid Game’s return? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew Ep 6 (Disney+)
Squid Game Season 2 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

06:00 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 5 - You Have a Lot to Learn About Pirates
37:00 - Squid Game Season 2
Ep 1 - Bread or Lottery

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Dune: Prophecy Season 1

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 18:00:40 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David is joined by Myles McNutt from Episodic Medium to discuss their thoughts on the Dune: Prophecy season 1 finale.

Did the show live up to its potential? How successful was it, dramaturgically speaking? Are we looking forward to a season 2? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more!

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Squid Game Season 1 - The First 6 Episodes

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 15:55:14 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss the first six episodes of Squid Game season 1 on Netflix. It’s Patrick’s very first time watching the show! Did he understand what the big fuss was all about? Does the show still hold up? And how excited are we for the end of season 1 and the beginning of season 2? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 48 - What Happens When The Daniels Direct a Star Wars Episode?

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 03:12:07 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of TV, then dive into the 4th ep of Skeleton Crew.

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew Ep 5 (Disney+)
Bonus Ep: Squid Game Season 1 (Netflix)
Bonus Ep: Dune Prophecy (Max)

Shownotes:

09:30 - TV News
‘Silo’ to End With Season 4
‘Girls5Eva’ Canceled Again
‘The Old Man’ Canceled
‘Bad Monkey’ Renewed
‘Secret Level’ Renewed
‘Man on the Inside’ Renewed for Season 2 at Netflix
Macolm in the middle is coming back
Love Is Blind contestants are employees
Disney Cuts Trans Storyline
41:00 Skeleton Crew
Ep 4 - Can’t Say I Remember No At Attin

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 47 - 'The Agency' Shows The Human Cost of American Espionage

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of TV, then dive into the third episode of Skeleton Crew and the first few episodes of The Agency on Paramount+.

What did we make of the first Simpsons/NFL crossover? Is Squid Game season 2 going to be, like, really really amazing? Is it worth your while to pay a visit to The Agency? And does Skeleton Crew show more or less promise after its third episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew Ep 4 (Disney+)
Possible Bonus Ep: Squid Game Eps 1-5 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

01:30 - TV News
Henry Cavill Says ‘Warhammer 40,000’ TV Series Is in a ‘Fantastic’ Starting Place: ‘We’ve Been Breaking Down Approaches to the Enormity’ of That World
‘The Simpsons’ and ESPN Are Turning NFL Monday Night Football’s Cowboys-Bengals Game Into A Wild, Untamed Animated Version: What to Expect and Where to Watch
Golden Globes: How ‘Squid Game’ Got Nominated for a Season You Haven’t Seen Yet
22:45 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 3 - Very Interesting, As An Astrogation Problem
45:00 - The Agency
Ep 1 - The Bends
Ep 2 - Wooden Duck
Ep 3 - Hawk from a Handsaw

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Interior Chinatown Eps 1-3

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:15:03 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and @joyofnapping discuss the first 3 episodes of Charles Yu’s Interior Chinatown (Hulu):

Ep 1 - Generic Asian Man
Ep 2 - Delivery Guy
Ep 3 - Tech Guy

How does Charles Yu’s amazing book make the transition to the small screen? What components were we particularly taken by? How do we find the show as a parody of police procedurals? And as a piece of media criticism? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Follow Joy on Bluesky
Email us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 46 - Is This 'Skeleton Crew' Enough to Make 'Star Wars' Fly Again?

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:19:31 GMT

David and Patrick discuss what’s happening in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Skeleton Crew.

The creator of Arcane has responded to criticisms of the second season. What do we make of his reaction? Are we happy about the new culture of recording footage off of movie screens? Is Skeleton Crew the shot in the arm Star Wars needs at this moment? Will Patrick finally have to watch the first two seasons of Euphoria? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew Ep 3 (Disney+)
The Agency Eps 1-2 (Showtime/Paramount+)
Possible Bonus Ep: Interior Chinatown (Hulu)

Shownotes:

01:30 - What we watched over the Thanksgiving break
A Man on the Inside
The Franchise
Wicked (and a digression about recording things off TV screens)
22:36 - Agatha All Along finale hits ratings highs
25:01 - Max password sharing may be coming to an end
30:45 - Upcoming Max premiere dates
36:19 - Arcane creator responds to criticism
51:20 - Skeleton Crew
Ep 1 - This Could Be a Real Adventure
Ep 2 - Way Out Past The Barrier

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 45 - Silo Season 2 Can Still Bring the Heat (Tape)

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:34:28 GMT

David and Patrick discuss the season premiere of Silo season 2 and finish their conversation about Arcane season 2.

What did we make of Silo’s change in tone and structure? Do we think the mystery will have a satisfying ending? Did Arcane stick the landing? Are either/both of these shows worth watching despite their flaws? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Skeleton Crew season premiere (Disney+)
Possible Bonus Ep: Interior Chinatown (Hulu)

Shownotes:

01:30 - Silo Season 2
Ep 1 - The Engineer
Ep 2 - Order
32:45 - Arcane Season 2 Act III
Ep 7 - Pretend Like It’s The First Time
Ep 8 - Killing Is a Cycle
Ep 9 - The Dirt Under Your Nails

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 44 - The Real Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Fight Was The Friends We Made Along The Way

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 20:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss everything that’s happening in the world of TV, including Netflix’s wildly popular fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. Then, they dig into the season premiere of Dune: Prophecy and Act II of Arcane Season 2.

What did we think of Netflix’s big Paul vs. Tyson fight? Are we excited for Conan O’Brien to host the Oscars? Is Dune: Prophecy the type of prequel that fills in the details we care about? And is there any way Arcane season 2 can stick the landing? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Silo Eps 1-2 (Apple TV+)
Arcane Season 2 Act III (Netflix)
Possible Bonus Ep: Interior Chinatown (Hulu)

Shownotes:

01:30 - Netflix Claims 108M Viewers Worldwide for Jake Paul-Mike Tyson Boxing Match
20:30 - Conan O’Brien Will Host the Next Academy Awards
23:40 - Comcast Plans Massive Cable Spin-Off, Separating USA, MSNBC and More From NBC, Theme Parks
28:00 - HBO Says ‘Harry Potter’ Series Will ‘Benefit’ From J.K. Rowling’s Involvement: She ‘Has the Right to Express Her Personal Views’
41:13 - Dune: Prophecy
Ep 1 - The Hidden Hand
1:09:48 - Arcane Season 2 Act II

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 43 - 'Arcane' Season 2 Is Spectacular (So Far)

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss everything that’s happening in the world of TV. Then, they dig into episode 8 of The Penguin and Act I of Arcane Season 2.

Is the making of Game of Thrones really like a marriage? Did The Penguin stick the landing with its brutal finale? How wildly successful is Euphoria season 3 going to be? Is Jason Sudeikis delusional about Ted Lasso season 3? Is Arcane still one of the best shows on TV? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Homework for next week:

Dune: Prophecy season premiere (Max)
Arcane Season 2 Act II (Netflix)
Bonus Ep: Disclaimer (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

19:00 - 70 million people on Netflix’s ad tier
23:35 - HBO/Max News
‘The Penguin’ Finale Scores Series High 2.1 Million Viewers
HBO Boss on ‘House of the Dragon’ Criticism
‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Moving Forward With Production This January With 8-Episode Season
34:00 - Jason Sudeikis Rails Against ‘Ted Lasso’ Season 3 Haters: ‘They Don’t Have Imaginations’
41:30 - The Penguin
Ep 8 - A Great or Little Thing
01:13:15 - Arcane Season 2 Act I

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: 'The Penguin' Ep 7 Made Us Contemplate Child Sociopathy

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:28:20 GMT

Patrick and David are traveling this week so today we have an abridged bonus episode about The Penguin, delivered to you earlier than usual.

Tonight’s episode of The Penguin had some pretty explosive material! We get a flashback to Oz’s childhood, but what did it do to illustrate who he ends up becoming? What do we think of where Sofia’s arc is taking her? And what is Tim Burton doing in this version of the Batman universe? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Homework for (the week after) next week:

The Penguin Episode 8 (Max)
Arcane season 2 premiere (Netflix)
Interior Chinatown season premiere (Hulu)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 42 - Marvel TV Reaches New Heights With ‘Agatha All Along’s’ Finale

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek chat about the latest TV news. Then they dive into episode 6 of The Penguin and the season finale of Agatha All Along.

Does a new Seinfeld blu-ray release have us reaching for our wallets? Will Jon Stewart’s extended hosting deal at The Daily Show keep us tuned in? Is the new Marvel TV trailer enough to keep us on board for 2025? Does this week’s episode of The Penguin have us emotionally invested in Oz? Can Agatha All Along stick the landing with its season finale? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 7 (Max)

Shownotes:

02:40 - Seinfeld to debut on blu-ray and 4K
12:02 - Comcast may spin off Cable networks
14:08 - Jon Stewart Extends Deal to Host ‘Daily Show’ Through December 2025
19:44 - Netflix Adds ‘Moments’ Feature
23:58 - Marvel’s look ahead
38:56 - The Penguin
Ep 6 - Gold Summit
01:01:42 - Agatha All Along
Episode 8 - Follow Me My Friend / To Glory at the End
Episode 9 - Maiden Mother Crone

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:01:23 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, Jessie Earl joins Patrick and David to discuss and spoil the second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

Did we think the second season was better or worse than the first? How would we rank the disparate plotlines? Did we buy the relationship between Celebrimbor and Sauron? What did we think of the appearance of characters like Tom Bombadil? What are we looking forward to in season 3? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Subscribe to Jessie Earl’s YouTube show
Check out Jessie’s movie, Identiteaze
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
Email us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow us on Tiktok at tiktok.com/@decodingreality
Subscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 41 - Patti LuPone Was Remarkable in This Week’s ‘Agatha All Along’

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the newly released trailers for Severance and Interior Chinatown and explore the latest news and announcements. Then, they dig into episode 5 of The Penguin and episode 7 of Agatha All Along.

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 6 (Max)
Agatha All Along Episode 8 (Disney+)
The Rings of Power Season 2 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

05:09 - Escape from Dannemora is now on Netflix
07:41 - New Trailers
Severance Season 2 (January 17, 2025)
Interior Chinatown (November 19, 2024)
14:27 - Renewals/Upcoming Shows
Shogun Co-Creator Justin Marks Inks New Overall Deal at FX
Carrie TV Series From Mike Flanagan in the Works at Amazon
Beef Season 2 Officially a Go at Netflix
28:37 - John Turturro on Turning Down The Penguin
36:40 - The Penguin
Ep 5 - Homecoming
1:03:50 - Agatha All Along
Ep 7 - Death’s Hand In Mine

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 40 - 'The Penguin' Just Aired One of the Best TV Episodes of the Year

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 19:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the series premiere of Disclaimer and run down what’s going on in the world of TV. Then, they dig in to episode 4 of The Penguin and episode 6 of Agatha All Along.

This week we saw two shows that had flashback episodes depicting the backstory of a seemingly secondary character. Which one did we find most effective? Did Alfonso Cuarón’s Disclaimer hook us or leave us cold? Are we excited for John Mulaney to return to the world of late night TV? And which recent renewals are we most excited by? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 5 (Max)
Agatha All Along Episode 7 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

01:30 - Initial thoughts on Disclaimer on Apple TV+
12:45 - Amazon Prime Video is adding Apple TV+ as a channel
14:45 - Netflix orders new John Mulaney live weekly talk show in 2025
20:04 - Renewals and Cancellations
Slow Horses Renewed for Season 6 at AppleTV+
Apple TV+ Releases Silo Season 2 Trailer
Invincible Season 3 will premiere on February 6 with no midseason break
Culinary Class Wars renewed for second season at Netflix
The Diplomat renewed for season 3
You will grow old waiting for your favorite TV show
34:30 - The Penguin
Ep 4 - Cent’Anni
01:17:00 - Agatha All Along
Ep 6 - Familiar By Thy Side

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: 'Slow Horses' Season 4 Sticks the Landing

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:42:19 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, @joyofnapping returns to discuss and spoil the fourth season of Slow Horses, which just aired its season finale.

What did we think were the best and worst elements of this season? What storylines were invented for the show and how did they play out? How was Hugo Weaving as the main villain? What plot threads are we looking forward to being developed next season? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Follow Joy on Threads
Email us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow us on Tiktok at tiktok.com/@decodingreality
Subscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 39 - ‘The Franchise’ Is About The Impossibility of Making Good Art

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the series premiere of The Franchise, chat about some TV renewals and cancellations, and assess the role of toxic fandom in our culture. Then they dig in to episode 3 of The Penguin and episode 5 of Agatha All Along.

Can The Franchise rise above the inside jokes of Hollywood to become a hit? What do a series of high profile renewals and cancellations say about the state of the television industry? Can The Penguin continue strong world building while ignoring the existence of Batman? Does Agatha All Along deliver on its big twist? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 4 (Max)
Agatha All Along Episode 6 (Disney+)
Bonus Ep: Slow Horses Season 4 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

02:13 - The Franchise
Ep 1 - Scene 31A: Tecto Meets Eye
14:04 - Renewals and Cancellations
Kaos Cancelled
The Night Agent Renewed for Season 3
Reacher Renewed for Season 4
23:21 - How Hollywood is Battling Toxic Fans
Jodie Turner-Smith says Disney Can’t Stay Silent
42:02 - The Penguin
Ep 3 - Bliss
01:12:27 - Agatha All Along
Ep 5 - Darkest Hour / Wake Thy Power

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 38 - How ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2 Might Deviate From the Game

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 19:00:22 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek explore the early ratings for The Penguin, brace themselves for a new season of Sugar, discuss a surprising choice of director for Stranger Things 5, and dig into the new trailer for The Last of Us Season 2. Then, they discuss episode 2 of The Penguin and episode 4 of Agatha All Along.

Will The Penguin be able to take flight in the ratings for the rest of the first season? How do we feel about the confounding news of a second season of Sugar? Does Frank Darabont’s return to the industry signal a strong return for Stranger Things? How different will The Last of Us season 2 be from its video game counterpart? Does The Penguin keep up the momentum in episode 2? Are we still enjoying the witchy formula of Agatha All Along in episode 4? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 3 (Max)
Agatha All Along Episode 5 (Disney+)
The Franchise Episode 1 (Max)

Shownotes:

12:13 - Strong Ratings for The Penguin
16:20 - Sugar Renewed for Season 2
21:18 - Frank Darabont Ends Retirement for Stranger Things
25:53 - The Last of Us Season 2 Trailer
36:20 - The Penguin
Ep 2 - Inside Man
01:04:28 - Agatha All Along
Ep 4 - If I Can’t Reach You, Let My Song Teach You

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 37 - Did ‘The Penguin’ Waddle Into Our Hearts?

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 23:00:48 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the Industry renewal news, Paramount layoffs, and the new Disney+ and Hulu price hikes. Then, they dive into the season premiere of The Penguin and episode 3 of Agatha All Along.

What do we think of Industry and are we excited for another season? How will Paramount’s phase 2 layoffs affect their output? Will new pricing for Disney+ and Hulu wreak havoc on their subscriber base? What do we make of the return to Gotham with The Penguin? Is Colin Farrell able to stand out as Oswald Cobb under heavy makeup and prosthetics? Is Agatha All Along stringing us along? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin Episode 2 (Max)
Agatha All Along Episode 4 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

02:13 - Industry Renewed for Season 4 + Season 1 Discussion
13:27 - Paramount’s Phase 2 of Layoffs
19:21 - New Disney+/Hulu Price Hikes/Password Crackdown Coming
30:38 - The Penguin
Ep 1 - After Hours
01:13:39 - Agatha All Along
Ep 3 - Through Many Miles / Of Tricks and Trials

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 36 - Does 'Agatha All Along' Bring Us All Along? (Plus: Emmys Discussion)

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:34:23 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek are joined by Myles McNutt to discuss the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards. Then, they discuss the season premiere of Agatha All Along.

What did we think of The Bear winning some many awards in the comedy category? Will the Television Academy ever figure out what season of The Bear they’re actually voting on? Did Shogun deserve even more awards love this year? How do we feel about Hacks taking the top prize? And are we ready to go back to the world of Westview in Agatha All Along? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Penguin season premiere (HBO/Max)
Agatha All Along episode 3

Shownotes:

01:30 - The 2024 Emmys
42:09 - Agatha All Along
Ep 1 - Seekest Thou the Road
Ep 2 - Circle Sewn with Fate / Unlock Thy Hidden Gate

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: What 'Chimp Crazy' Can Teach You About Being a Parent

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 12:00:19 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss Chimp Crazy, a 4-part docuseries on HBO/Max from the director who brought you Tiger King.

Is Chimp Crazy a more worthy recommendation than Tiger King? And what exactly does this show about people who try to keep and sell primates have to teach us about being a parent? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 35 - 'Slow Horses' Can Still Deliver The Goods

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:55:30 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV. Then, @joyofnapping joins the podcast to discuss what they thought of the season 4 premiere of Slow Horses.

Was HBO’s statement about George R R Martin’s blog post a big deal or not? Why are fans having so much difficulty drawing boundaries between artists and the characters they play? And what did we make of the first presidential debate between Kamala Harris? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Agatha All Along season premiere (Disney+)
Bonus Ep: Chimp Crazy (Max)

Shownotes:

04:45 - TV News
Following up on our George R. R. Martin Conversation
Valorie Curry tries to draw boundaries with fans
NBC pulls back Tonight Show to four nights per week
Reacting to the Presidential Debate
49:30 - Slow Horses season 2
Ep 1 - Identity Theft
Ep 2 - A Stranger Comes to Town

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 34 - Is Middle-earth Worth Revisiting in 'The Rings of Power' Season 2?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 07:03:52 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of the season 2 premiere of The Rings of Power.

Why is George R. R. Martin so intent on criticizing House of the Dragon? How do kids even think about movies these days? And does Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power change course from season 1? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Slow Horses season 4 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

05:30 - George R. R. Martin’s Blog Post about House of the Dragon
37:39 - Winona Ryder doesn’t think younger folks watch enough movies
49:30 - Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2
Ep 1 - Elven Kings Under the Sky
Ep 2 - Where the Stars are Strange
Ep 3 - The Eagle and the Sceptre

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 33 - 'The Gentlemen' Is 'Entourage' For British Gangsters

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 07:19:56 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of season 1 of The Gentlemen on Netflix.

This week brought more details about The Acolyte cancellation and the promise of additional seasons of Ted Lasso. What do David and Patrick make of these developments? And are we excited for a Vision-focused TV series to finish the unofficial WandaVision trilogy? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 premiere (Netflix)

Shownotes:

02:30 - Inside the decision to cancel The Acolyte
28:36 - Ted Lasso season 4 becomes realer
41:00 - James Spader joins Vision TV series
53:30 - The Gentlemen season 1

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 32 - 'The Acolyte' Cancellation Leaves Star Wars in a Dire Place

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 07:49:41 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of the first few episodes of Bad Monkey on Apple TV+.

Are we going to watch any of the dozen plus shows from AMC+ that are now on Netflix? Do we think there’s any hope for Venu, the Fubo competitor? Are we still excited for the next season of True Detective? Which Secret Level are we looking forward to the most? And what do we make of the cancellation of The Acolyte? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Gentlemen Season 1 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

01:30 - A bunch of AMC+ shows just dropped on Netflix
08:00 - Dark Matter renewed for season 2
11:30 - Judge blocks Venu sports bundle
21:55 - The Acolyte is cancelled
44:45 - Prime Video’s Secret Level gets trailer
51:15 - Issa Lopez reacts to Nic Pizzolatto
59:30 - Bad Monkey
Episode 1 - The Floating-Human-Body-Parts Capital of America
Episode 2 - A Hundred Bucks Says You Won’t

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 31 - The Ted Lasso Liminal Space

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 07:30:17 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of the final five episodes of Batman: Caped Crusader on Prime Video.

What are some of the announcements at D23 that caught our eye? Are we excited for the newest Star Wars series, Skeleton Crew? Why should you never trust a short YouTube video from D23 to give you actual footage from the show? And should we expect to ever see more episodes of Ted Lasso? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Bad Monkey Eps 1-2 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

01:30- Paramount Television Studios shuts down
09:00 - D23 News
Inside Out Spinoff Series
Daredevil: Born Again reveals first footage with March premiere
Star Wars: Skeleton Crew trailer
23:45 - Gentleman renewed for season 2 and Traitors renewed for 2 more seasons
26:08 - Jason Sudeikis has to make a decision about Ted Lasso
33:20 - Not getting invited to the Emmys
39:30 - Batman: Caped Crusader Eps 6-10
Episode 6 - Night Ride
Episode 7 - Moving Target
Episode 8 - Nocturne
Episode 9 - The Killer Inside Me
Episode 10 - Savage Night

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 30 - 'Batman: Caped Crusader' Reimagines The World of Gotham

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 07:58:56 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of the first five episodes of Batman: Caped Crusader on Prime Video.

How did House of the Dragon do in the ratings this season? What is our first take on the footage from Welcome to Derry and The Last of Us Season 2? Are we excited for a new TV show in the world of John Wick? How about the second and third season of Squid Game? And should Baby Reindeer have been branded as a true story? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Batman: Caped Crusader Eps 6-10 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:08:55 - House of the Dragon news
HOTD season finale viewership
HOTD will end with season 4
12:05 - HBO shows reveal early footage
23:30 - John Wick Series
28:40 - Squid game season 2 and 3 details
37:40 - The real-life Martha in Baby Reindeer
45:40 - Batman: Caped Crusader Eps 1-5
Episode 1 - In Treacherous Waters
Episode 2 - …And Be a Villain
Episode 3 - Kiss of the Catwoman
Episode 4 - The Night of the Hunters
Episode 5 - The Stress of Her Regard

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 29 - Finding 'Presumed Innocent' Guilty (Of Being Good TV)

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 08:38:24 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of Presumed Innocent season 1 on Apple TV+.

What exactly was going on during the opening ceremonies of the Olympics? Should Warner be suing the NBA to get some of its games back onto TNT? Are we excited for a world full of Boys spinoffs from Amazon? And is Sausage Party actually a deep meditation on the nature of religion and atheism? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Batman: The Caped Crusader (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:08:55 - Our Olympics viewing experiences
00:24:30 - Warner sues the NBA
00:33:21 - Amazon’s The Boys spinoffs
Invincible, Hazbin Hotel, Sausage Party: Foodtopia renewed
00:47:45 - Presumed Innocent Season 1
01:16:00 - Comparing Presumed Innocent (1990) with Presumed Innocent (2024)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 28 - Why Aren't People Watching Apple TV+?

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss what they thought of The Boys season 4.

Is Euphoria season 3 actually going to happen?(!) Where can you expect to stream Homicide: Life on the Street? Why aren’t people watching Apple TV+ shows? And is the Apple TV+ gravy train for creators really over? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Presumed Innocent season 1 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

00:14:20 - Homicide: Life on the Street will stream on Peacock
00:17:08 - Euphoria season 3 sets production date
Behind the tumultuous scenes at Euphoria
00:22:30 - Apple tries to reign in spending
00:29:00 - The Boys Season 4
01:20:15 - Acolyte feedback and Patrick’s reactions

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 27 - Assessing The 2024 Emmy Nominations (Plus: Does 'The Acolyte' Stick The Landing?)

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:29:54 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Myles McNutt discuss this year’s Emmy nominations. Then Dan Gvozden joins to discuss the season finale of The Acolyte.

What were some things the Emmys got right? And what nominations made us raise an eyebrow or two? Did The Acolyte stick the landing? And are we excited for a possible season 2 of the show? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Boys Season 4 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - The 2024 Emmy Nominations
00:29:00 - The Acolyte
Episode 8 - The Acolyte

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 26 - Sometimes You Eat 'The Bear'

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 06:39:05 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV, discuss the seventh episode of The Acolyte, and finish up their conversation about The Bear season 3.

What are the implications of a Skydance/Paramount merger? Are we excited after seeing the new trailer for Agatha All Along? And should David Duchovny have been one of the main male leads in Full House? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 8 (Disney+)

Homework for upcoming weeks:

The Boys season 4 (Prime Video)
Presumed Innocent season 1 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

00:02:30 - Severance Season 2 announces release date
00:06:30 - X-Men ‘97 season 3 gets a writer
00:09:50 - Agatha All Along trailer
00:18:30 - Skydance and Paramount merge
00:29:30 - David Duchovny lost out on all 3 male leads for Full House
00:35:30 - The Acolyte
Episode 7 - Choice
01:07:30 - The Bear Season 3

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 25 - Sometimes 'The Bear' Eats You

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 04:30:09 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the first three episodes of The Bear season 3. Then, Dan Gvozden joins us from The Amazing Spider-Talk podcast to discuss the latest episode of The Acolyte.

Is The Bear a show that’s become too enamored of its own success and character dynamics to move forward? Does anything interesting happen on The Acolyte this week? Will Sol finally get to explain WTF happened on Brendok all those years ago? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 7 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

00:01:00 - The Bear
Episode 1 - Tomorrow
Episode 2 - Next
Episode 3 - Doors
00:47:20 - The Acolyte
Episode 6 - Teach/Corrupt

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 24 - Why 'The Acolyte' Is Getting Review Bombed

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the fifth episode of The Acolyte and the fourth episode of The Boys’ fourth season.

Do we really care whether a show is branded as an HBO or Max original? (Unfortunately yes). Why is Presumed Innocent such an effective TV drama? And what’s going on with the audience reviews for The Acolyte? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 6 (Disney+)
The Bear season premiere (Hulu)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Presumed Innocent on Apple TV+
00:10:28 - The Acolyte Is Getting Review Bombed
00:22:45 - Max is rebranding some shows to HBO
00:33:45 - Harry Potter gets a showrunner
00:38:30 - The Acolyte
Episode 5 - Night
01:08:00 - The Boys
Episode 4 - We’ll Keep The Red Flag Flying Here

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 23 - Is 'The Boys' Bad Now Because of Woke?

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 04:52:11 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the fourth episode of The Acolyte and the first three episodes of The Boys fourth season.

Are fewer people watching House of the Dragon this year? Why did Jon Stewart leave Apple TV+ anyway? Are we excited about a film adaptation of Three-Body Problem? And has The Boys gotten too woke recently? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 5 (Disney+)
The Boys Season 4 Ep 4 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:02:30 - The Curse ending behind-the-scenes
00:05:15 - House of the Dragon ratings
00:15:50 - Jon Stewart’s exit from Apple TV+
00:24:17 - Zhang Yimou’s Three-Body Problem movie
00:30:00 - The Acolyte
Episode 4 - Day
01:00:05 - The Boys
Episode 1 - Department of Dirty Tricks
Episode 2 - Life Among the Septics
Episode 3 - We’ll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 22 - Why Netflix Keeps Getting Sued

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 07:32:42 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the third episode of The Acolyte.

Why does everyone keep suing Netflix? How has Jon Stewart’s return to late night gone so far? Are we excited about The Boys season 5 being its last? And is there going to be a Euphoria season 3 after all? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 4 (Disney+)
The Boys Season 4 premiere Eps 1-3 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:07:00 - Man on Fire and Starfleet Academy casting news
00:16:00 - Jon Stewart will host live shows after debates
00:19:20 - Fi0na Harv3y is suing Netflix
00:31:40 - Casey Bloys teases upcoming WB slate
00:39:30 - The Boys season 5 will be its last
00:51:55 - The Acolyte
Episode 3 - Destiny
Dave’s Nitpick Corner

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 21 - Training with 'The Acolyte'

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:51:33 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the season premiere of The Acolyte.

What do we make of the new price increases to Max? How has culture war stuff influenced writing about Star Wars? Why is Netflix still being so weird about the renewal of 3 Body Problem? And are we excited for a new series based on Like a Dragon: Yakuza? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Ep 3 (Disney+)
Bonus: The Boys Season 3 finale

Shownotes:

00:19:54 - Max Prices Going Up
00:23:46 - Leslye Headland Hopes the Force Is With the Acolyte
00:31:33 - 3 Body Problem Will Return for Seasons 2 and 3
00:37:15 - Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live Action Series
00:45:44 - The Acolyte
Episode 1 - Lost/Found
Episode 2 - Revenge/Justice
Dave’s Nitpick Corner

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 20 - Sympathy for 'The Sympathizer'

Thu, 30 May 2024 07:23:01 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the season (series?) finale of The Sympathizer (Max).

What do we think about Jeffrey Wright being cast in the same role in the TV version of The Last of Us season 2? What’s the difference between Marvel Television and Marvel Spotlight? And are we psyched for a Damon Lindelof show about Green Lantern? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Acolyte Eps 1-2 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

00:03:05 - Jeffrey Wright cast as Isaac in Last of Us Season 2
00:13:38 - Marvel’s rebranding of its TV Shows
00:38:10 - Damon Lindelof is on board the Green Lantern TV show
00:49:30 - The Sympathizer
Episode 7 - Endings Are Hard, Aren’t They?

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 19 - 'X-Men '97' Is The Best Thing Marvel Has Made Since 'Avengers: Endgame'

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:34:30 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the sixth episode of The Sympathizer (Max) and the first season of X-Men ‘97 (Disney+).

Why should you definitely watch Scavengers Reign when it hits Netflix in late May? Like really? (Seriously). What do we make of Netflix’s weird announcement for more episodes of 3-Body Problem? And what is it that X-Men ‘97 gets so right about the Marvel universe and about the X-Men themselves? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Sympathizer Ep 7 (Max)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Comcast’s Streamsaver bundle is $15/month
00:06:50 - Scavengers Reign is cancelled at Max but not on Netflix
00:18:24 - Shogun seasons 2 and 3 are in development
00:26:30 - More episodes of 3-Body Problem are happening under mysterious circumstances
00:38:30 - The Sympathizer
Episode 6 - The Oriental Mode of Destruction
01:04:15 - X-Men ‘97 Season 1

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 18 - Begun, The Streaming Bundle Wars Have

Thu, 16 May 2024 07:20:21 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the fifth episode of The Sympathizer (Max) and the final three episodes of Baby Reindeer (Netflix).

How do we feel about Netflix’s latest efforts to get into live programming? Which streaming bundle are we looking forward to the most? Why can’t Paramount+ get any love? Is there still life left in The Office as a franchise? Are we excited about another season of Mr. and Mrs. Smith? And what about season 2 of Shogun for that matter? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

The Sympathizer Ep 6 (Max)
X-Men ‘97 Season 1 (Disney+)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Netflix’s big moves into live TV
NFL gets Christmas day football
00:17:00 - Begun, the streaming bundle wars have
Max bundling with Disney+/Hulu
Peacock bundling with Netflix/Apple TV+
00:26:00 - The Office Reboot
00:33:30 - Mr and Mrs Smith Season 2 and The Boys season 5
00:36:15 - Shogun Season 2 is in development
00:43:00 - The Sympathizer
Episode 5 - All For One
01:00:00 - Baby Reindeer
Episode 5
Episode 6
Episode 7

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 17 - Getting 'Baby Reindeer' Fever

Thu, 09 May 2024 07:19:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the fourth episode of The Sympathizer (Max) and the first four episodes of Baby Reindeer (Netflix).

How are studios navigating tricky situations when beloved cast members pass on? Does Cobra Kai really need to be split into three separate parts? What’s the best way to advertise to kids these days anyways? Is there such thing as an anti-war film in the world of The Sympathizer? And why is Baby Reindeer so damn good at unraveling its story? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Baby Reindeer Eps 5-7 (Netflix)
The Sympathizer Ep 5 (Max)
X-Men '97 Season 1 (Disney+)
Bonus Ep: Sugar Season 1 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

00:06:00 - Gen V will not recast Chance Perdomo
00:13:00 - Cobra Kai’s release schedule
00:28:30 - The Sympathizer
Episode 4 - Give Us Some Good Lines
00:56:00 - Baby Reindeer
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 16 - Reacting to the Fallout of 'Fallout' Season 1

Thu, 02 May 2024 07:31:33 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the third episode of The Sympathizer (Max) and the rest of season 1 of Fallout (Prime Video).

Is 65 million viewers actually a lot when it comes to a streaming service? How embarrassed does the OG Emily Stone feel about taking Emma Stone’s SAG name? What other famous people just aren’t being clear about their real names and pronunciations? What do we think The Sympathizer is trying to say about being an American? And what did we think of the rest of season 1 of Fallout on Prime Video? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Baby Reindeer Eps 1-4 (Netflix)
The Sympathizer Ep 4 (Max)
Bonus Ep: Invincible Season 2 Part 2 (Prime Video)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Fallout gets 65 million viewers
00:08:33 - THR’s cover story about The Curse
00:26:45 - The Sympathizer
Episode 3 - Love It Or Leave It
51:15 - Fallout Season 1
Episode 4 - The Ghouls
Episode 5 - The Past
Episode 6 - The Trap
Episode 7 - The Radio
Episode 8 - The Beginning

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 15 - 'The Jinx: Season 2' Is About How Awesome 'The Jinx: Season 1' Was

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:42:24 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the season 2 premiere of ‘The Jinx,’ the first two episodes of The Sympathizer (Max) and the season 1 finale of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

How big of a deal is Fallout these days? Why do people keep trying to remake Oldboy? Is it worth watching The Jinx: Season 2 even if you haven’t seen The Jinx: Season 1? What did we make of the mishmash of tones in The Sympathizer? And does Shogun season 1 stick the landing in its finale? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Fallout Season 1 (Prime Video)
The Sympathizer Ep 3 (Max)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Fallout renewed for season 2
00:07:33 - Oldboy TV series
00:12:50 - There was more Bluey after all
00:18:00 - The Jinx: Season 2
Episode 2 - Why Are You Still Here?
00:41:30 - The Sympathizer
Episode 1 - Death Wish
Episode 2 - Good Little Asian
1:03:30 - Shogun
Episode 10 - A Dream of a Dream
A list of callbacks
Shogun vs. Real Life

Links:

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Ep. 14 - Not Just Surviving, But Thriving Amidst the 'Fallout'

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:47:47 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the first three episodes of Fallout (Prime Video) and the ninth episode of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

Are we excited about more Monarch: Legacy of Monsters? Will we ever see a Heroes reboot that people care about? What did we make of Bluey’s season finale, “The Sign”? Is Fallout the greatest videogame adaptation ever made? And what did we think of Mariko’s fateful decisions on this week’s episode of Shogun? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 10 (Hulu/FX)
The Sympathizer Eps 1-2 (Max)
The Jinx Season 2 premiere (Max)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 -More seasons/spin-offs for Monarch
00:06:33 - Tim Kring wants to reboot Heroes
00:13:33 - Bluey’s season 3 finale, The Sign
BBC: Producer confirms series return
00:33:00 - Fallout
Episode 1 - The End
Episode 2 - The Target
Episode 3 - The Head
1:14:00 - Shogun
Episode 9 - Crimson Sky

Links:

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Bonus Ep Preview: 3 Body Problem Season 1

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 23:20:58 GMT

In this bonus episode preview, David and Patrick discuss the final episodes of season 1 of 3 Body Problem on Netflix.

To hear the rest of the episode, become a paid subscriber at decodingtv.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 13 - Curb Your Enthusiasm's Finale Was a Middle Finger to America

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:59:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the eighth episode of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

Why was Larry David’s Curb Your Enthusiasm a middle finger to TV watchers? Is it possible we will actually get more Westworld in the future? Why is it such a difficult time to be a TV writer right now? And why can’t people finish Ripley, anyway? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 9 (Hulu/FX)
Fallout Eps 1-3 (Prime Video)
Bonus Ep: 3 Body Problem Season 1 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

00:07:40 - Fallout News
Fallout Season 2 seems likely
Westworld is still alive?
00:22:45 - Why it’s a brutal time to be a TV writer
00:33:46 - Why people can’t finish Ripley
00:43:15 - The Curb Your Enthusiasm Series Finale
00:56:15 - Shogun
Episode 8 - Abyss of Life

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep: Is Netflix's 'Scoop' Interesting for People Who Don't Care About The Royals?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:07:47 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and @joyonapping continue their conversation about the royal family by discussing Netflix’s new film, Scoop, which chronicles the events surrounding Prince Andrew’s disastrous 2019 Newsnight interview.

Is this film interesting to people who don’t care about the royal family? What did we think about who the film chose as its main characters? Does Rufus Sewell make for a convincing Prince Andrew? And what did we make of the film’s depiction of the interview itself? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Also: Should we cover A Very Royal Scandal, an upcoming 3-part Prime Video series that covers these same events? Let us know at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep Preview: Constellation Season 1

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 12:21:57 GMT

In this bonus episode preview, David and Patrick discuss the final episodes of season 1 of Constellation on Apple TV+.

To hear the rest of the episode, become a paid subscriber at decodingtv.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 12 - Does The World Need An(other) X-Files Reboot?

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:01:14 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV and discuss the seventh episode of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

Is the true story behind Netflix’s 3 Body Problem more intricate than the show itself? What are the chances that 3 Body Problem will get a second season? Are we looking forward to Ryan Coogler’s take on The X-Files (if it even happens)? And what did we think of this week’s relatively quiet episode of Shogun? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 8 (Hulu/FX)
Bonus Ep: Constellation Season 1 (Apple TV+)
Bonus Ep: 3 Body Problem Season 1 (Netflix)

Shownotes:

00:01:30 - Chance Perdomo Dead at 27
00:03:30 - 3 Body Problem Murder Scandal
Latest on 3 Body Problem Ratings
00:28:25 - Chris Carter on the legacy of the X-Files
00:48:00 - Shogun
Episode 7 - A Stick of Time

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 11 - Getting to the Root of the 3 Body Problem

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 07:15:33 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV, then discuss the first three episodes of 3 Body Problem (Netflix) and the sixth episode of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

What do we think of a new John Wells/Noah Wyle hospital-themed team-up? Was it cool for Pete Davidson to leave Bupkis like that? Will we ever see another season of Euphoria? And is 3 Body Problem a worthy TV follow-up from the creators of Game of Thrones? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 7 (Hulu/FX)
Bonus Ep: Constellation Season 1 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

00:03:00 - Noah Wyle and John Wells reteam for The Pitt

00:12:15 - Euphoria Season 3 delayed indefinitely

00:20:25 - Pete Davidson abruptly leaves Bupkis

00:29:15 - 3 Body Problem

Episode 1 - Countdown
Episode 2 - Red Coast
Episode 3 - Destroyer of Worlds

01:10:00 - Shogun

Episode 6 - Ladies of the Willow World

Links:

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Bonus Ep: The Crown Season 6 (Plus: What's Going on With The Royals?)

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 19:23:44 GMT

As with all things in life: Better late than never! In this bonus episode, @joyonapping (AKA Joy) returns to the podcast to finish our conversation about the Netflix original series The Crown. You can listen to the first part of this conversation right here.

What did we think of how the final six episodes of season 6 wrapped up the story for these characters? What did we make of the specific end point the show chose? Did the show do a good job of finishing the Diana storyline? And what about its depiction of Will and Kate’s courtship? Did the ending of this show predict the events that we’re currently experiencing? And finally: What do we make of all the news that’s happening about the Royals right now? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Also: We’re sorry this episode is late but sometimes life (and medical things) get in the way! We’ll hopefully be back in a few weeks to discuss Scoop on Netflix, the upcoming film about Prince Andrew’s Newsnight interview that’s releasing on April 5.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow this podcast on Instagram
Follow this podcast on Tiktok
Subscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything
Follow David on Instagram
Follow David on Tiktok

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Decoding TV Ep. 10 - Will Mr. Beast Make TV More Like Mr. Beast?

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:13:39 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Jessie Earl run down what’s going on in the world of TV, then discuss the season premiere of Manhunt (Apple TV+) and continue their weekly discussion of Shogun (Hulu/FX).

What do we think of Mr. Beast’s new game show? Is TV going to become more like YouTube or is YouTube going to become more like TV? Are we excited for the new Star Wars series The Acolyte? Why do people like waiting for movies to stream instead of seeing them in theaters these days? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Homework for next week:

3 Body Problem (Netflix)
Shogun episode 6 (Hulu/FX)

Shownotes:

00:01:45 - Two thirds of adults would rather wait to watch movies on streaming
00:12:00 - Mr. Beast’s deal with Prime Video
00:25:30 - The Acolyte trailer
00:38:00 - Manhunt
Episode 1 - Pilot
Episode 2 - Post-mortem
01:03:00 - Shogun
Episode 5 - Broken to the Fist

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 9 - They Just Went to the Sexytime Pool

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:12:53 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV, then discuss the first two episodes of of The Gentlemen (Netflix) and the fourth episode of Shogun (Apple TV+).

What do we think of the Oscars this year? Why would they show us the stars of upcoming films without telling us what the films are, exactly? Does The Gentleman on Netflix capture the magic of Guy Ritchie’s early British gangster pics? And what did we think of that scene in this week’s Shogun? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 5 (Hulu/FX)
Manhunt Eps 1-2 (Apple TV+)

Shownotes:

00:01:45 - The 2024 Oscars
00:22:30 - Marvel fires Beau DeMayo
00:39:30 - The Gentlemen
Episode 1 - Refined Aggression
Episode 2 - Tackle Tommy Woo Woo
01:01:00 - Shogun
Episode 4 - The Eightfold Fence

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 8 - Stealing Paperclips from CTU

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 20:38:32 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek run down what’s going on in the world of TV, then discuss the season premiere of The Regime (Max) and the next episode of Shogun (Apple TV+).

What do we think of the prospect of more Rings of Power from the same showrunners? Would we buy a Sopranos ice cream booth for $82K? Is Kate Winslet enough to maintain our interest in The Regime? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 4 (Hulu/FX)
The Gentlemen (Netlfix)

Shownotes:

00:08:45 - Shogun is a hit
00:12:40 - Brother Sun Canceled, Neuromancer Adaptation at Apple
00:18:00 - Rings of Power Showrunners Sign New Deal with Amazon
00:24:30 - The Sopranos Finale Booth Sells for $82K
00:44:30 - Shogun
Episode 3 - Tomorrow Is Tomorrow
01:13:00 - The Regime
Episode 1 - Victory Day

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 7 - How Many Pimples Do I Have To Watch Pop?

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 20:46:37 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen, Jessie Earl, and Patrick Klepek discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then discuss the season premieres of Shogun (Hulu/FX) and Constellation (Apple TV+).

Are we excited about the new Game of Thrones spinoff? Is it really a good idea to try to bring Harry Potter back in TV form? Does Constellation have more to offer beyond a mystery box? Is Shogun really as good as everybody says it is? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Homework for next week:

Shogun Ep 3 (Hulu/FX)
The Regime Ep 1 (Max)

Shownotes:

00:02:11 - True Detective will return!
00:12:40 - A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight to launch in late 2025
00:18:00 - New Harry Potter series to debut in 2026
WSJ: Uncancelling JK Rowling
Jessie Earl: JK Rowling's Anti-Transgender Stance And Hogwarts Legacy
00:29:30 - Constellation
Episode 1 - The Wounded Angel
Episode 2 - Live and Let Die
Episode 3 - Somewhere In Space Hangs My Heart
00:52:30 - Shogun
Episode 1 - Anjin
Episode 2 - Servants of Two Masters

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus Ep. - Expats Season Finale

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 23:00:00 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the first season of Lulu Wang’s Expats on Prime Video, including:

Episode 1 - The Peak
Episode 2 - Mongkok
Episode 3 - Mid-Levels
Episode 4 - Mainland
Episode 5 - Central
Episode 6 - Home

This show has some gorgeous cinematography and great acting, but left both of us feeling a bit cold. What was it about the show that made it inaccessible? Why was episode 5 such an amazing tour-de-force by comparison? How did we feel about the way the show wrapped up all the plots? And do we believe that Nicole Kidman would ever wear a JanSport backpack? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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Decoding TV Ep. 6 - Zero Subtlety Whatsoever

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:28:40 GMT

NOTE: We’re planning to do a mailbag bonus episode soon! Let us know your questions and TV recommendations by emailing us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss Jon Stewart's return to The Daily Show and the season finale of True Detective: Night Country. Is Jon Stewart still the voice we need right now? Did True Detective: Night Country stick the landing? Are people out of control for going after Alan Sepinwall for liking it? Is Nic Pizzolatto acting like a cringe-y asshole online (again)? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more!

Shownotes:

00:03:11 - Jon Stewart’s return to The Daily Show
00:26:56 - The discourse around True Detective: Night Country
00:42:30 - True Detective: Night Country Part 6 (season finale)

Homework for next week:

Constellation Eps 1-3 (Apple TV+)
Shogun Eps 1-2 (Hulu/FX)

Links:

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Decoding TV Ep. 5 - An Acceptable Amount of Gouging

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 20:50:08 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick discuss the why/how the ads of the Super Bowl kinda stink these days, Warner/Fox/Disney’s new streaming venture, whether or not Mr. and Mrs. Smith on Prime Video is about anything (and whether or not it needs to be), and how we anticipate True Detective: Night Country wrapping up.

Let us know what you think of all of the above by emailing us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Shownotes:

00:03:15 - Warner, Fox and Disney Launch Joint Sports Streaming Venture
00:17:30 - The Ads of Super Bowl LVIII
00:37:45 - Mr and Mrs. Smith
Episode 5 - Do You Want Kids
Episode 6 - Couples Therapy
Episode 7 - Infidelity
Episode 8 - A Breakup
01:02:04 - True Detective: Night Country Part 5

Homework for next week:

True Detective: Night Country Part 6 (Max)
The Daily Show (Comedy Central)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 4 - #JusticeForEvan

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 15:32:28 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick discuss Evan Rachel Wood’s comments about the end (or lack thereof) of Westworld, Netflix and Apple TV+’s upcoming show slate, and why Nic Pizzolatto should probably stay off Instagram for a few more weeks.

Let us know what you think of all of the above by emailing us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Shownotes:

3:48 - Evan Rachel Wood on Westworld’s Ending
17:00 - Apple TV+’s upcoming slate and Netflix’s upcoming slate
45:00 - Nic Pizzolatto and Issa Lopez’s comments on Night Country
53:00 - Mr and Mrs. Smith
Episode 1 - First Date
Episode 2 - Second Date
Episode 3 - First Vacation
Episode 4 - Double Date
1:19:30 - True Detective: Night Country Part 4

Homework for next week:

True Detective: Night Country Part 5 (Max)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith Eps 5-8 (Prime Video)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 3 - See Your Life Fracturing Into a Million Pieces

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:11:51 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick discuss the upcoming season of Squid Game and the return of Jon Stewart to The Daily Show. Then it’s time to dive into Masters of the Air, Expats, and True Detective: Night Country.

Is Jon Stewart’s return a good thing, or the sign of a network running on fumes? Can Squid Game seize the popular imagination again? Does Masters of the Air capture the same magic as Band of Brothers? Does Expats show Nicole Kidman and Lulu Wang at the top of their game? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Let us know what you think of all of the above by emailing us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Shownotes:

4:00 - Squid Game 2 will premiere in 2024
23:00 - Jon Stewart is returning to The Daily Show
31:30 - Masters of the Air Eps Part 1 and Part 2
52:00 - Expats episodes 1 and 2 (“The Peak” and “Mongkok”)
1:22:00 - True Detective: Night Country Part 3

Homework for next week:

True Detective: Night Country Part 4 (Max)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith Eps 1-4 (Prime Video)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decoding TV Ep. 2 - A Strictly Dehydrating Regimen

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:00:47 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Patrick discuss David’s recent trip to Sundance, react to news of the Emmy’s record low ratings, ponder the potential of a She-Hulk season 2, reflect on what happens when creators get too close to the material they put out, and continue their coverage of Echo and True Detective.

Let us know what you think of all of the above by emailing us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Shownotes (Times may be off by 1-2 mins due to dynamically inserted ads. When in doubt, listen for the trailer/clip of the show).

4:00 - David’s trip to Sundance
23:00 - Emmy ratings hit a new low
33:09 - She-Hulk season 2 is not looking good
42:10 - Issa Lopez asks for help with Rottentomatoes scores
56:15 - Echo Episodes 3-5 (“Tuklo” “Toloa” and “Maya”)
1:18:00 - True Detective: Night Country Part 2

Homework for next week:

True Detective: Night Country Part 3 (Max)
Masters of the Air episodes 1-2 (Apple TV+)
Expats episodes 1-2 (Prime Video)

Links:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Week In Streaming: Fargo Season 5 Eps 6-10

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:02:37 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the final five episodes of Fargo season 5, which are streaming right now on Hulu/FX:

Episode 6 - The Tender Trap
Episode 7 - Linda
Episode 8 - Blanket
Episode 9 - The Useless Hand
Episode 10 - Bisquik

The last half of the season brought us to a massive standoff, before a time jump takes us to an epilogue. How did we feel about how things resolved? Were we a fan of how each character’s plot was resolved? And what did we make of the final scene of the show (series?)? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Stay tuned for our new weekly podcast, as we continue to cover shows such as True Detective: Night Country and Echo. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
Follow this podcast on Instagram
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Decoding TV Ep. 1 - What's the Point of an Awards Show?

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 13:35:19 GMT

Welcome to Decoding TV’s new weekly format!

For years, Decoding TV has decoded weekly TV shows like Westworld, The Last of Us, Succession, and The Curse. We’ve loved diving in depth into these shows, analyzing them, and sharing our theories.

But doing the show the way we did had a fatal flaw: People mostly didn’t listen to the podcast if they weren’t watching the show! Also: there are some shows we want to talk about that might not be dense enough to support a weekly recap podcast.

So we’re launching this new weekly format, and hopefully you feel comfortable tuning in even if you’re not watching any specific show. Each week we’ll open by talking about 1-2 general topics about the world of television and entertainment. Then we’re going to dive into specific TV show episodes we’ve watched. We’ll put trailers when we bring up a new TV show, and also note the timestamp in the shownotes so you can fast forward if you don’t want to hear about a specific show.

On occasion, we will continue to cover shows in our previous format (e.g. House of the Dragon) or via This Week In Streaming, but it’s our hope that this weekly format will be the main engine of the podcast moving forward.

We hope you enjoy the new show and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Shownotes:

3:47 - The 75th Annual Emmy Awards
32:46 - The Mandalorian and Grogu Movie
54:30 - Echo Episodes 1 and 2 (“Chafa” and “Lowak”)
1:18:00 - True Detective: Night Country Episode 1 (Part 1)
1:34:30 - Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Episode 10 (“Beyond Logic”)
1:51:35 - The Curse finale feedback

Links:

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The Curse Ep. 10 - Green Queen

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Stay tuned to the podcast next week as we re-launch in a new weekly format!

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen are joined by Jessie Earl to discuss the tenth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “Young Hearts.”

Well folks. What to say about this one? The first 20 minutes of this episode is standard Curse fare, with a healthy dose of awkwardness and obliviousness. But then the show takes a hard pivot and really swings for the fences with its final hour. Is it successful? Is it thrilling? Is it amazing technically? And what does it all mean in the end? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Subscribe to Jessie’s second YouTube channel
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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The Curse Ep. 9 - Young Hearts

Sat, 06 Jan 2024 13:07:49 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the ninth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “Young Hearts.”

In this episode, Whitney has an awkward encounter with Cara at a spa, but what does it say about her character? Fliplanthropy tries to make the pivot to a show where Whitney and Asher love each other more, but will it work? What exactly was Asher doing in the bathroom anyway? And how did Whitney react to Asher’s final plea at the end? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: A Murder At The End of the World Season Finale - Retreat

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the season finale of A Murder at the End of the World, “Retreat.”

As with most mysteries, this one came down to a visit to the accusing parlor will the detective slowly solved the crime. What did we think of how the big mystery finally resolved? What exactly was this show trying to say about the nature of AI and technology? How well did it use its memorable characters? What did we make of all the flashbacks with Darby and Bill? And Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Stay tuned for our continuing coverage of The Curse, plus details about a new weekly Decoding TV show that will launch in the coming weeks. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Subscribe to Jessie’s second YouTube channel
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
Follow this podcast on Instagram
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The Curse Ep. 8 - Down and Dirty

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 13:30:11 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the eighth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “Down and Dirty.”

In this episode, Asher and Whitney’s marriage strains to the breaking point and Whitney’s manipulation begin to spiral out even further. Who do we think actually tried to bait Asher with the chicken? What did Whitney do in the bathroom/elevator with that strange man? WTF is Dougie trying to accomplish with Nala, exactly? And what did we think of the pilot episode of Fliplanthropy on YouTube? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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The Curse Ep. 7 - Self-Exclusion

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 13:00:47 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the seventh episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “Self-Exclusion.”

In this episode, the cracks begin to show in Whitney and Asher’s marriage. But to what extent are the cracks real vs. Whitney putting on a show? How much does it cost to buy a racist mini-golf statue these days? Is it worth having a lock on your freezer if you have roommates? And what do we think is really going on with the shooting style of The Curse? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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This Week In Streaming: Fargo Season 5 Eps 1-5

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 01:45:48 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the first four episodes of Fargo season 5, which are streaming right now on Hulu/FX:

Episode 1 - The Tragedy of the Commons
Episode 2 - Trials and Tribulations
Episode 3 - The Paradox of Intermediate Transactions
Episode 4 - Insolubilia
Episode 5 - The Tiger

Fargo has always been a show that’s heavily inspired by the work of the Coen Brothers. How did we feel about what this season did with the source material? Is Juno Temple able to hold the show together as the protagonist this season? What does this show have in common with The Fall of the House of Usher? And what do we think will be the fate of Roy and his son Gator, not to mention Munch and Dot? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Stay tuned for our continuing coverage of The Curse as well as other shows like The Crown and A Murder at the End of the World. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
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The Curse Ep. 6 - The Fire Burns On

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 13:27:04 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the sixth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “The Fire Burns On.”

In this short episode, Whitney and Dougie hatch a plan to betray Asher. Is this the beginning of the end for our favorite reality couple? Is there any hope for “Fliplanthropy”? Who would leave chicken in a fire station bathroom? Is “Green Queen” actually a good name? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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The Curse Ep. 5 - It's a Good Day

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 13:00:46 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the fifth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “It’s a Good Day.”

In this episode, Whitney continues charging headfirst into her misguided plans to help the community. But how do we think it’s all going to go wrong this time around? Is 80 degrees really too hot for the inside of a house? Is Asher just a powder keg waiting to go off at any moment? And why would being on camera motivate anyone to burst into song? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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The Curse Ep 4 - Under The Big Tree

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 13:44:59 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the fourth episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime, “Under the Big Tree.”

This episode is a clear middle chapter, developing some characters and letting a few plotlines simmer before presumably bigger events explode sometime in the future. How well is the Dougie storyline working for us and where do we think it’s heading?

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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This Week In Streaming: Invincible Season 2 Eps 1-4

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 13:30:13 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the first four episodes of Invincible season 2, which are streaming right now on Amazon Prime Video:

Episode 1 - A Lesson For Your Next Life
Episode 2 - In About Six Hours I Lose My Virginity to a Fish
Episode 3 - This Missive, This Machination!
Episode 4 - It’s Been A While

This season of Invincible comes with a rather odd release schedule, as the final episodes of the season won’t air until 2024. How did we feel about the pacing of this season? How do plotlines in the show feel compared to their execution in the comics? What were the main storylines that stuck with us this season? And what do we make of how, well, cruel the show can be? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
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The Curse Ep 3 - Questa Lane

Sat, 25 Nov 2023 13:15:39 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the third episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime.

This episode ventures out of the land of cringe and into the scary land of sadcringe, requiring several multi-layered performances. How well did we think our main actors pulled off these moments? What do we think this show is trying to say about the impact of well-meaning, ill-thought-out progressive machinations? And should you ever run after girls while waving a $100 bill? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: The Crown Season 6 Eps 1-4

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 22:26:48 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by his wife (AKA @joyonapping) to discuss the first four episodes of The Crown season 6:

Episode 1 - Persona Non Grata
Episode 2 - Two Photographs
Episode 3 - Dis-Moi Oui
Episode 4 - The Aftermath

This season follows a rather disappointing season in which Charles seemed to be the hero while the Queen and Princess Diana were sidelined. Does season 6 create a compelling story out of one of most important plotlines in The Crown’s history? What do we think of how real-life events compare with the show’s depiction of them? And has the show finally figured out what to do with the Queen? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Stay tuned for our continuing coverage of The Curse as well as a This Week In Streaming episode about Invincible Season 2. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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The Curse Ep 2 - Pressure's Looking Good So Far

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 14:00:07 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the second episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime.

This episode maintains the agonizing cringe and awkwardness of the first episode as Asher and Whitney get involved with a local art show. But in what ways is Whitney blundering through this situation that make it so painful? What do we make of Dougie’s backstory and where the show is going with it? And what exactly is going on at the end of the episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: A Murder at the End of the World Eps 1-2

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:40:40 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the first two episodes of A Murder at the End of the World, streaming on Hulu:

Episode 1 - Homme Fatale
Episode 2 - The Silver Doe

Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij are back again with another sci-fi show, only this one has a murder mystery at the center of it. What did we think of this diverse ensemble cast? What were our thoughts on the sci-fi elements in the show and how resonant they are with current events? And why do we think this show was mysteriously delayed from summer to fall of 2023? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Stay tuned for our continuing coverage of The Curse as well as Invincible Season 2. We’ll also make an episode about Murder at the End of the World when the finale airs. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
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The Curse Ep 1 - Land of Enchantment

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 13:06:50 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the first episode of The Curse on Paramount+/Showtime. We’ll be covering this show weekly through January 2024 and we hope you’ll have a chance to join us for it!

This show features a core trio of incredible talent (Benny Safdie, Nathan Fielder, and Emma Stone). How did we feel their skills were applied in this episode? Where is the show most insightful and where is it taking cheap shots? How painful of an experience did we find watching this episode to be? Why should you not play audio of this show near where your kids are hanging out? And do we have any idea of where this show is going? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Stay tuned for more announcements of what we’ll be covering right here on Decoding TV.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Loki S2E06 - Glorious Purpose

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 17:00:57 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen dive into Loki season 2 episode 6, “Glorious Purpose.”

Loki’s finale is not only one of the best episodes of the season but possibly one of the best episodes of the show altogether. How did we feel about the way the show used its time travel mechanics? Where does this season leave all of our beloved characters? What did we think of the ultimate resolution of Loki’s character? And what do we make of the future of Kang and Loki in the MCU? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Thanks for joining us for our coverage of Loki! NEXT WEEK: We’ll begin covering The Curse on Showtime/Paramount+. Stay tuned for more announcements of what we’ll be covering right here on Decoding TV.

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This Week In Streaming: Gen V Season 1

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 13:43:41 GMT

This was a really strong season of television! But how seamless (or not) were the tie-ins to The Boys? Was Marie Moreau a compelling protagonist? What did we think of the show’s ultraviolence and general grossness? Where does the ending leave us for the next seasons of both The Boys and Gen V? And what did we make of that big cameo at the end of the finale? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Later this week as we wrap up our coverage of Loki season 2. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Loki S2E05 - Science/Fiction

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:00:42 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Dan Gvozden from the Amazing Spider-Talk podcast and David Chen dive into Loki season 2 episode 5, “Science/Fiction.”

This episode finds Loki dealing with the fallout from the events of last episode and maybe also learning some valuable lessons too. What did we think about how this episode paid off long running threads? What is this show trying to say about the art of storytelling, if anything? What are we expecting for the end of this season? And was the real TVA the friends we made along the way? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

We’ll be covering Loki weekly right here on Decoding TV, so stay tuned to hear our reaction to each episode this season!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Bonus Ep. - Five Nights At Freddy's

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:00:26 GMT

In this bonus episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the Five Nights at Freddy’s movie currently streaming on Peacock.

What is the appeal of this videogame property? Is it possible to take any of these characters seriously? How did the videogame’s lore interact with the story they were trying to tell? And why is this movie so good for society even if we ultimately don’t like it very much? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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Loki S2E04 - Heart of the TVA

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:06:57 GMT

In this episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen dive into Loki season 2 episode 4, “Heart of the TVA.”

This episode delivers on the best of what this show has to offer. But is that enough? What are the moments that shocked Patrick and David? How close did that scene come to being rated R? Do we think that the backstories of Renslayer, General Dox, and Victor Timely got quite enough time in the oven? What could possibly happen after that ending? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

We’ll be covering Loki weekly right here on Decoding TV, so stay tuned to hear our reaction to each episode this season!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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Loki S2E03 - 1893

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:31:43 GMT

In this episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen dive into Loki season 2 episode 3, “1893.”

This episode sees the return of Ravonna Renslayer and Miss Minutes. But, like, what is Miss Minutes’ deal exactly? Does she have physical properties? Do we care about her quest for a human body? What did we think of Jonathan Major’s performance as Victor Timely? How delightful is it to see Mobius and Loki in 19th century Chicago? And can this show stick to one plotline for longer than a single episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

We’ll be covering Loki weekly right here on Decoding TV, so stay tuned to hear our reaction to each episode this season!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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This Week in Streaming: The Fall of the House of Usher

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 15:08:57 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss all eight episodes of Mike Flanagan’s The Fall of the House of Usher:

Episode 1 - A Midnight Dreary
Episode 2 - The Masque of the Red Death
Episode 3 - Murder in the Rue Morgue
Episode 4 - The Black Cat
Episode 5 - The Tell-Tale Heart
Episode 6 - Goldbug
Episode 7 - The Pit and the Pendulum
Episode 8 - The Raven

We begin by discussing our overall thoughts on the show. Then, starting at ~29:00, we discuss and spoil every single episode.

How did Poe’s work fare in the transition to the small screen? And how well did we think the actors did in bringing these characters to life? Is this show supposed to be as campy as it feels sometimes? What were our favorite kills? And does this show add up to anything by the end? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
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Loki S2E02 - Breaking Brad

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:35:48 GMT

In this episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen dive into Loki season 2 episode 2, “Breaking Brad.” But first: a conversation about how Marvel has been handling TV, and how that might change moving forward.

This episode sees Loki finally reuniting with Sylvie after some adventures apart. But why does it feel like this show is actually two separate shows fighting against each other? What was it like to see Loki use some more of that old trickster magic again? And does this show actually need superhero action scenes to be exciting? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

We’ll be covering Loki weekly right here on Decoding TV, so stay tuned to hear our reaction to each episode this season!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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This Week In Streaming: The Continental: From The World of John Wick Season 1

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:30:28 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the entire first season of The Continental: From The World of John Wick, including:

Episode 2 - Loyalty to the Master
Episode 3 - Theatre of Pain

As predicted, the season (series?) finale had action scene after action scene. But were any of them any good? What were our favorite and least favorite moments? Did this show bring enough to the (high) table to warrant revisiting the world of John Wick? Do we think it’s worth revisiting this world in a second season? And we ask again: Was it really worth casting Mel Gibson in this show? Listen to us discuss all this and more!

Next week, we’ll be continuing our coverage of Loki. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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Loki S2E01 - Ouroboros

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 12:29:10 GMT

In this episode, Patrick Klepek and David Chen dive into Loki’s season 2 premiere, “Ouroboros” We start by talking about our thoughts about what Loki season 1 did well and where we felt it could’ve improved. Then, it’s time for a full-blown review and recap of the first episode of season 2.

We’ve missed the world of the Time Variance Authority! Is there any MCU show that has ever looked better than Loki? How painful does Loki’s time-slipping look, exactly? How do we feel about the Jonathan Majors of it all? How perfect is Ke Huy Quan for this show? And what are our hopes and expectations for this season of television? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

We’ll be covering Loki weekly right here on Decoding TV, so stay tuned to hear our reaction to each episode this season!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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Ahsoka Eps 7-8 Minisode - Dreams and Madness and The Lion, The Witch, and the Warlord

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 20:00:12 GMT

Patrick and David are experimenting with shorter episodes for shows that we still want to check in with but aren’t doing full blown recaps for. In this podcast episode, David and Patrick discuss the final two episodes of Ahsoka:

Episode 7 - Dreams and Madness
Episode 8 - The Lion, The Witch, and the Warlord

Well, that finale certainly subverted our expectations…but not in a good way necessarily? Was it really the best move to make [REDACTED] the big final confrontation? Has this show done a good job of setting up future seasons/films featuring these characters? Should this show have been titled Ahsoka in the first place? Is anyone really happy to reunite with Ezra Bridger? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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This Week In Streaming: Gen V Eps 1-3 (with Jessie Earl)

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 00:30:56 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen is joined by writer, filmmaker, and YouTuber Jessie Earl to discuss the first three episodes of Gen V, a new spin-off series set in the universe of The Boys:

Episode 1 - God U.
Episode 2 - First Day
Episode 3 - #ThinkBrink

Gen V is very close in tone to The Boys. But is it too close? How invested are we in these brand new characters? What do we think about the ways this show intersects with the The Boys? How does the show handle politics and other social issues? And can the show’s central mystery propel us all the way to the end of the season effectively? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Next week, we’ll be concluding our coverage of Ahsoka and The Continental and kicking off our conversation about Loki: Season 2. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Jessie Gender on YouTube
Learn more about Jessie’s short film, Identiteaze
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This Week In Streaming: The Continental Ep 1 - Brothers In Arms

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 20:02:10 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the first episode of The Continental: From The World of John Wick, “Brothers In Arms.”

How well did this show use the universe of the John Wick movies? Was it a good decision to center the entire show around [REDACTED]? Was it really worth it to cast Mel Gibson in this show? (Spoiler: No). What is the point of the KD/Mayhew storyline? Most importantly: Does the action in this show deliver? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Next week, we’ll be covering Gen V. We’ll also be continuing our coverage of The Continental and Ahsoka in the weeks to come. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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Ahsoka Eps 5-6 Minisode - Shadow Warrior and Far, Far Away

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Enjoying the podcast? Please consider supporting us by becoming a paid member at Decodingtv.com.

Episode 5 - Shadow Warrior
Episode 6 - Far, Far Away

Our protagonists have arrived at their destination! But is the payoff worth it? What did we think of the re-introduction of [REDACTED]? Is Peridea really all that desolate? What did we make of Hayden Christensen’s return as Darth Vader? And why/how is Ray Stevenson’s character the most interesting thing about this show? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: One Piece Eps 1-3

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Support this podcast by becoming a paid member at DecodingTV.com.

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. On this episode, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the first three episodes of One Piece streaming right now on Netflix:

Episode 1 - Romance Dawn
Episode 2 - The Man in the Straw Hat
Episode 3 - Tell No Tales

How well did One Piece build its fantastical world? Is it doing enough to satisfy existing fans while drawing in folks not familiar with its source material? Does the main character of Luffy work for us? What filmmaking choices make One Piece feel different than a normal TV show? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss The Continental on Peacock. We’ll also be continuing our coverage of Ahsoka. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Bonus Ep: The Problem with RottenTomatoes

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:00:44 GMT

Here at Decoding TV, we’re planning to do a series of bonus episodes where Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss a topic that’s in the news or just something that’s caught our attention recently. The first few of these will be free but eventually they will be exclusive to paid Decoding TV subscribers. (Check out our first episode about MovieTok and film criticism.)

Today we discuss this Vulture piece detailing some of the issues that RottenTomatoes faces. What does it say about our society that a single numerical value holds so much importance? How do the lessons of Rottentomatoes apply to the videogame world? And what is a consumer to do given the fact that RottenTomatoes scores may be unreliable? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Whenever possible we broadcast our episodes live on YouTube. You can watch the episode here.

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Ahsoka Eps 3-4 Minisode - Time to Fly and Fallen Jedi

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:24 GMT

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider becoming a paid member at decodingtv.com.

We’re trying something new this week! Patrick and David are experimenting with a shorter episode format for a show that we still want to check in with but maybe don’t want to do full blown recaps for. In this podcast episode, David and Patrick discuss the latest two episodes of Ahsoka:

Episode 3 - Time To Fly
Episode 4 - Fallen Jedi

Are we still enjoying the show? How well does it handle its “Star Wars moments” vs. everything else? Is the dialogue still glacially paced? What do we think about the character of Ahsoka as opposed to Sabine? And how satisfying is the sound that’s made when the spherical map is placed in someone’s gloved hand? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
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This Week In Streaming: How To with John Wilson Season 3

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 23:00:31 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the docuseries How To with John Wilson, which is streaming right now on Max.

In each episode of How To, documentarian John Wilson ostensibly sets out to answer a basic question: how to find a public restroom, how to clean your ears, how to watch the game, etc. But in reality, the show is an intimate portrait of life's beautiful mundanity, with Wilson taking the episode's original premise and frequently pivoting in new, unexpected, and always interesting directions.

What did we think of the show’s third and final season? What did we feel about the various ways in which John Wilson played around with his formula? What were some of the most memorable moments from this season and beyond? And what do we think this show is ultimately trying to say? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss the first few episodes of One Piece streaming right now on Netflix. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there.

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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Justified: City Primeval Post-Mortem

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:00:00 GMT

In this Decoding TV bonus episode about Justified: City Primeval, Sarah Marrs and David Chen discuss all the things we didn’t get to in our season final recap. This includes topics such as:

Did the finale drop the ball this season?
Listener reactions to the season as a whole
Was it really a big mistake to bring back [REDACTED]?
The biggest differences between the book and the show
What happened during the time jump in the finale?
And much more!

Thanks for a great season of TV recapping. Decoding TV will be back in the near future to cover How To with John Wilson, The Continental, and much much more, so be sure to keep subscribed to get all our latest episodes.

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
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This Week In Streaming: Telemarketers

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 12:27:22 GMT

Support this podcast by becoming a paid member at DecodingTV.com.

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the three-part HBO docuseries Telemarketers, which is streaming right now on Max.

Telemarketers is about two former telemarketers who witness the corruption and exploitation of one telemarketing firm in particular, Civic Development Group (CDG), and make it their life’s mission to try and take the company—and the industry—down. Its sprawling narrative eventually becomes about the making of the documentary itself. Its appeal is largely driven by the two personalities at its center. But did this format work for us? What does Telemarketers have to say about the telemarketing industry and about our society’s ability to change it? And how does it fit in with the current documentary environment overall? Listen to us discuss all this and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss How To With John Wilson Season 3. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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Justified: City Primeval Ep 8 - The Question

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 02:00:00 GMT

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the eighth and final episode of Justified: City Primeval, “The Question.”

In the season (series?) finale, characters make baffling decisions left and right. What happened to the deadly Albanians? How did we feel about the ultimate fate of Clement Mansell? Did Raylan’s arc prove to be a worthwhile one? And what did we make of the shocking cameo at the end of the episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Thanks to Sarah Marrs for joining us for this season of coverage! We’ll be doing one additional bonus episode to discuss City Primeval so send us your questions/thoughts/responses at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com. Thanks for listening!

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
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This Week in Streaming: Ahsoka Eps 1-2

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:33:08 GMT

If you enjoy this podcast, consider supporting us by becoming a paid subscriber at DecodingTV.com

Episode 1 - Master and Apprentice
Episode 2 - Toil and Trouble

We begin by discussing our relationship to Star Wars at this point, plus our overall thoughts on Ahsoka. Then we dive into full spoilers starting at around 25:50 into the podcast. How did the show manage the task of catching people up with the history of the animated shows while also welcoming in new viewers? Does Ahsoka do a good job of capturing the “feeling” of Star Wars? Shouldn’t catching a light saber through the torso be enough to kill someone? And is it just David, or does everyone in this show talk extremely slowly? Listen to us discuss all this and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss Telemarketers, the docuseries streaming on Max. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there.

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Justified: City Primeval Ep 7 - The Smoking Gun

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 02:07:51 GMT

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider becoming a paid subscriber at DecodingTV.com. Thanks!

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the seventh episode of Justified: City Primeval, “The Smoking Gun”

In the penultimate episode of the season, plotlines start colliding left and right and a major character is revealed to have ulterior motives. How did we feel about that reveal? Will we ever see Willa again? Taking into account the original Justified, what is the grand arc of Raylan Givens character? What are our predictions for how this season will wrap up? And why are sex scenes important for storytelling? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
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Bonus Ep. - MovieTok and the Future of Criticism (feat. Myles McNutt)

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 12:44:23 GMT

Today we're launching a new series of bonus episodes where Patrick Klepek and I talk about a topic that’s in the news or something that’s caught our attention recently. Assuming folks enjoy these (if you do, let us know via email at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!), we’ll keep doing them. The first few of these will be free but eventually they will be exclusive to paid Decoding TV subscribers. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to get the best Decoding TV experience.

Today we welcome Myles McNutt from the Episodic Medium Substack who joins me and Patrick Klepek to discuss this article in The New York Times about MovieTok (and David Chen’s Tiktok response). What are the differences between traditional critics and MovieTok content creators? How have these differences informed each of our career paths? And what did The New York Times get right and wrong about how it framed this issue? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Subscribe to Myles McNutt’s newsletter, Episodic Medium
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This Week In Streaming: Twisted Metal Season 1

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 12:39:10 GMT

Thanks to our paid subscribers at DecodingTV.com for making this podcast possible.

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the final five episodes of Twisted Metal, now streaming on Peacock.

Episode 6 - DRVTHRU
Episode 7 - NUTH0UZ
Episode 8 - EV3L1N
Episode 9 - R04DK11
Episode 10 - SHNGRLA

We begin by discussing our overall thoughts, then dive into full spoilers starting at around 16:07 into the podcast. What did we make of how this show handled lore (and what lore did we miss in our last recap episodes)? Did we really need backstories for Officer Stone, Quiet, and Sweet Tooth? What exactly was Raven trying to accomplish in the final episode of the show? Did this season end where it should’ve began? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss the first two episodes of Ahsoka, the new Star Wars series on Disney+. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay
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Justified: City Primeval Ep 6 - Adios

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 02:00:00 GMT

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider becoming a paid subscriber at DecodingTV.com. Thanks!

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the sixth episode of Justified: City Primeval, “Adios.”

This episode brings one major character’s arc to a startling conclusion. How did we feel about how that character’s storyline resolved? Is there really a mole tipping off Clement Mansell? Is Willa really gone from this show until the final episode? Does Clement do a good cover of “Seven Nation Army” or is it only okay? And how much better would society be if all mediocre dudes got a chance to go into the arts? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
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Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: Twisted Metal Eps 1-5

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 12:28:05 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that covers the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the first five episodes of Twisted Metal, which is streaming right now on Peacock:

Episode 1 - WLUDRV
Episode 2 - 3RNCRCS
Episode 3 - NTHLAW1
Episode 4 - WHZDARE
Episode 5 - CRZSRDS

We begin by discussing our overall thoughts, then dive into full spoilers starting at around 22:00 into the podcast. What makes Anthony Mackie so compelling in this show? Does Will Arnett doing a good job of voicing a killer clown (whose body is played by Samoa Joe)? Why did they make Quiet someone who’s not, well, quiet? And why can’t videogames about tournaments spawn TV/movies that are about tournaments? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss the rest of the season of Twisted Metal. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Justified: City Primeval Ep 5 - You Good?

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider becoming a paid supporter at Decodingtv.com. Thanks!

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the fifth episode of Justified: City Primeval, “You Good?”

This episode puts the focus on Carolyn, played by Aunjanue Ellis. How well did this show build up the backstory of Carolyn? What do we make of her decisionmaking this episode? Are Clement Mansell’s machinations getting more or less compelling over time? And are we ever going to see the character of Willa return in a significant way? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Justified: City Primeval Ep 4 - Kokomo

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 05:00:00 GMT

If you enjoy the podcast, please consider becoming a paid subscriber at Decodingtv.com. Thanks!

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the fourth episode of Justified: City Primeval, “Kokomo.”

This episode raises the stakes as multiple blood feuds set us up for the end game of this season. What do we think is going on between Raylan and Carolyn? Is Sandy going to make it through this thing mentally intact? Is Clement Mansell smart or just wily? Will things end well for anyone whatsoever? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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This Week In Streaming: Full Circle

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 22:00:00 GMT

This podcast exists because of the paid subscribers at Decodingtv.com. Consider becoming a paid subscriber and support the show!

Programming note: Our Justified recap will be a day or two late this week due to scheduling issues. Sorry about that!

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss Steven Soderbergh’s six-episode miniseries Full Circle, which is streaming right now on Max.

We begin by discussing our overall thoughts on Full Circle, then dive into full spoilers starting at around 11:30 into the podcast. What did we make of the show’s sprawling, labyrinthine plot? Which storylines resonated with us the most? What were the stand-out performances from this show? Not many people seem to be talking about Full Circle; should they be? And what did we make of the show’s decision to be filmed almost entirely using a wide-angle lens? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week, Patrick and David will discuss Twisted Metal on Peacock. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there. Thanks for being a paid subscriber!

Links:

Email us and let us know what you think at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Secret Invasion Eps 5-6 - Harvest and Home

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:50:44 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the final two episodes of Secret Invasion:

Episode 5 - Harvest
Episode 6 - Home

Is the Secret Invasion finale really the worth the title of worst-reviewed MCU work of all time? Was this show worth spending $200MM on? What ideas and themes linger afterwards? Do some of these plot points actively ruin other parts of the MCU (spoilers: yes)? What parts of this do we expect to still be relevant for The Marvels, which is coming out in November 2023? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Decoding TV will be covering Steven Soderbergh’s Full Circle next. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube, so be sure to follow us there.

Links:

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Justified: City Primeval Ep 3 - Backstabber

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 02:03:35 GMT

In this edition of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the third episode of Justified: City Primeval, “Backstabber.”

How is this show handling Willa’s arc? Will she actually be able to stay away from all the action in Detroit? What’s this show’s take on law enforcement and justice going to be? Is Norbert one of the worst cops ever? Is the Albanian going to survive this week’s events? Will Raylan Givens make beef stew out of some guy’s insides before the season is over?

Also: Sarah Marrs makes a bunch of predictions for how the season will end. Will she be right on every single count? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
Follow David Chen on Threads
Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Justified: City Primeval Eps 1-2 - City Primeval and The Oklahoma Wildman

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 01:46:20 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Sarah Marrs discuss the first two episodes of Justified: City Primeval:

Episode 1 - City Primeval
Episode 2 - The Oklahoma Wildman

Raylan Givens returns, but this story finds him as a fish out of water in Detroit. How have the years changed Givens and what is Timothy Olyphant bringing that’s new to the role? How dangerous is this season’s big bad? Does Vivian Olyphant acquit herself well as Raylan Givens’ daughter? And what about all the other characters we meet? How does the show handle the issue of police brutality? And where do we think this season is heading? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
Follow David Chen on Threads
Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Justified: City Primeval Preview (with Sarah Marrs)

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Hey Decoding TV,

David Chen here. Justified is a show that’s dear to my heart, so when I heard that they were going to be rebooting it for the streaming era, I was…apprehensive? Justified was one of the few shows that was not only enjoyable throughout its entire run, but also stuck the landing after six seasons. With the first two episodes of Justified: City Primeval hitting Hulu and FX this week, will the reboot bring the show into the modern era, or just become proof that with some great shows, you should leave well enough alone? I’m not sure, but we’re going to find out together!

Joining me for weekly recaps and reviews of Justified: City Primeval is Sarah Marrs. Sarah is the deputy editor of Lainey Gossip and her work has appeared at Decider and Pajiba. But she’s also one of the biggest Justified fans I’m aware of, having watched the entire run of the show many times. I’m so thrilled she’ll be joining us to share her love and expertise of Justified!

In this preview episode, we discuss what we love about the original Justified, recap the biggest story beats of the show that might be relevant for newcomers, share how we feel about the reboot, and speculate on what we might see on Justified: City Primeval. Justified: City Primeval will premiere tomorrow (July 18th) with its first two episodes, then air weekly. You should expect a weekly recap within 1-2 days of when each episode airs.

Your paid contributions at DecodingTV.com help me to fund this podcast and keep it going. Thanks for your support!

Links:

Read more of Sarah’s work at Lainey Gossip
Follow Sarah on Twitter
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Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Secret Invasion Eps 3-4 - Betrayed and Beloved

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 21:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen join discuss the middle two episodes of Secret Invasion:

Episode 3 - Betrayed
Episode 4 - Beloved

How do we think the Secret Invasion is going so far? What interesting plot threads does the show tantalizingly dangle that we wish it would delve more into? How many terrorist plot does Gravik have exactly? And does he really have to kill someone at the end of every episode? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Decoding TV will be releasing a new recap for every two episodes of this six-episode season. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube on Thursday mornings. You can watch this episode on YouTube here.

Links:

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Bonus Ep. - Reacting to the 2023 Emmy Nominations

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 02:01:33 GMT

The 2023 Emmy nominees were announced this morning and David Chen and Myles McNutt from Episodic Medium have some thoughts! In this bonus podcast episode, we discuss:

Which nominees were we thrilled by?
Which nominees were snubbed?
Should we even use the word “snub” to describe what’s going on here?
Why recent rule changes haven’t been effective in expanding the number of shows nominated
Shocking developments in this year’s nominee list
Will this year’s nominations be a turning point for the awards?

Listen to hear us discuss all this and more! You can also watch our conversation on our YouTube channel (Subscribe to make sure you don't miss future broadcaasts!)

You can view a complete list of nominees here.

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This Week In Streaming: Silo Season 1

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 21:05:46 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and @joyonapping discuss the season one finale of Silo and reflect on the season as a whole.

How well did Silo unravel its mysteries? Did it live up to the potential of its great sci-fi premise? How did we feel about the character of Juliette Nichols? And how did some of the biggest plot beats of the season compare with what was in Hugh Howey’s book, Wool? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.

Links:

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Secret Invasion Episodes 1-2 - Resurrection and Promises

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 21:00:48 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek, Dan Gvozden, and David Chen join up to discuss the first two episodes of Secret Invasion:

Episode 1 - Resurrection
Episode 2 - Promises

How does the Secret Invasion comics run compare to the show? How does this show deal with the aftermath of Captain Marvel? How does it handle the return of Maria Hill? How do we feel about Nick Fury as an older hero? Will the show actually take an interesting political perspective when it comes to refugees? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and many more!

Decoding TV will be releasing a new recap for every two episodes of this six-episode season. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube on Thursday mornings. We hope you’ll join us for the journey!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: The Bear Season 2

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:10:19 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a show on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and Dan Gvozden discuss season 2 of The Bear.

We struggled with how to cover this one given its binge release schedule. While we were originally hoping to release a recap of the first few episodes this past weekend, it soon became clear that it would make more sense to just discuss the season as a whole.

That’s why we’ve decided to deliver a super-sized 1hr43mins long episode diving into this season’s intricacies! We start with general, non-spoilery thoughts on the season. Then starting at around ~12:00, we deliver a full recap and dive into some of our favorite episodes and most memorable moments. We wrap up by discussing some of the issues we feel this season had. We hope you enjoy the conversation!

We’re going to try broadcasting This Week In Streaming live as often as possible, so please do follow us on YouTube and on Twitch and you’ll get notifications whenever we go live.

Links:

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Black Mirror Season 6 Eps 4-5 - Mazey Day and Demon 79

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 10:25:30 GMT

In this Decoding TV episode, David Chen and Roxana review, recap, and discuss the final two episodes of Black Mirror this season:

Episode 4 - Mazey Day
Episode 5 - Demon 79

This season of Black Mirror had more horror than sci-fi episodes. What did we think of this tonal shift? Are we looking forward to more Black Mirror in the future? Do these last two episodes have anything to teach us about the nature of technology? Or the world we live in? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Over the course of the next few weeks, we’ll be covering Secret Invasion, The Bear, and Silo, so stay tuned to the podcast for more TV reviewing goodness.

We try to broadcast our conversations live when we can, so be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to catch us when we go live.

Links:

Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Read Roxana’s work on Vulture
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Secret Invasion Preview (feat. Patrick Klepek)

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 21:23:33 GMT

Marvel Studios is back with a new TV show and I’m excited to announce that Patrick Klepek will be here to help us cover it! In this preview episode, Patrick and David discuss what we know about the Skrulls from previous MCU films and TV shows, what the state of MCU TV is in general, and what our hopes are for Secret Invasion.

Secret Invasion premieres June 21 and we’ll be releasing a new recap for every two episodes of this six-episode season. When possible, we will broadcast the episode live on YouTube on Thursday mornings. We hope you’ll join us for the journey!

Links:

Listen to Patrick’s podcast, Remap Radio
Subscribe to Patrick’s Substack
Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
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Black Mirror Season 6 Ep 3 - Beyond The Sea

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 21:43:23 GMT

In this Decoding TV episode, David Chen and Roxana review, recap, and discuss season 6 episode 3, “Beyond the Sea.”

This is probably Black Mirror’s most ambitious episode of the season. But how well did the episode explain its sci-fi premise? How well do its high-profile stars like Aaron Paul, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Mara acquit themselves in these roles? And what did we make of this episode’s ending? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Over the course of the next week, we’ll release one final episode covering episodes 4-5 (“Mazey Day” and “Demon 79”).

We try to broadcast our conversations live when we can, so be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to catch us when we go live.

Links:

Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
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Black Mirror Season 6 Eps 1-2 - Joan Is Awful and Loch Henry

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Black Mirror is back! And we are so pleased to have Roxana Hadadi back on Decoding TV to help us cover it.

In this podcast episode, David Chen and Roxana review, recap, and discuss the first two episodes of season six of Charlie Brooker’s dystopian anthology series, now streaming on Netflix:

Episode 1 - Joan Is Awful
Episode 2 - Loch Henry

Black Mirror is always a bit of a mixed bag so what did we make of these first two entries? Did we like how the series handled its more sci-fi elements? Do each of these stories pay off in a satisfying fashion? And ? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Over the next week or two, we will release two additional podcast episodes covering Black Mirror: One for episode 3 (“Beyond the Sea”) and one for episodes 4-5 (“Mazey Day” and “Demon 79.”)

We try to broadcast our conversations live when we can, so be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to catch us when we go live. You can watch our chat about these episodes here.

Links:

Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
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Succession Season 4 Post-Mortem

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:00:35 GMT

Thanks for a great season of TV recapping! We’ll be back in the near future to cover Black Mirror, The Bear, and Silo, so be sure to keep subscribed to Decoding TV to get all our latest episodes.

In this Decoding TV bonus episode about Succession, Kim Renfro and David Chen discuss everything that’s come up about the show since its series finale aired. This includes topics such as:

Why did Shiv Roy make that big decision?
What was up with that Kendall/Roman hug?
What was really the nature of Connor’s relationship with Logan?
Succession’s ratings and legacy
And much more!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Barry Season 4

Tue, 30 May 2023 15:16:20 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss the series finale of Barry. Was this show openly antagonistic to its fans this season? What did we think about the massive time jumps this season? Does each character get the fate that they deserve? Is The Mask Collector a good title for a movie? And what do we make of those very last shots? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

We’re going to try broadcasting This Week In Streaming live as often as possible, so please do follow us on YouTube and on Twitch and you’ll get notifications whenever we go live. You can watch our conversation about Barry right here.

Links:

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Succession S4E10 - With Open Eyes

Mon, 29 May 2023 12:21:32 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

THANK YOU for joining us at Decoding TV this season! It’s been a pleasure to watch this season of Succession with you. Stay tuned next week for our coverage of Barry and we’ll be back the following week with a Succession season 1 post-mortem.

In this special live episode of Decoding TV, David Chen, Kim Renfro, and David Cho recap and review the series finale of Succession, “With Open Eyes.”

Did Succession ultimately stick the landing? What did we think of the fate of each of these characters? Should [REDACTED] have gone over that railing at the end? Should Peter Munion have been able to get funding for his depressing nursing home project? Should Shiv have voted the way that she did? And what’s up with Roman hanging out at that bar? Listen to us discuss all this and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there! You can watch this conversation below.

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Silo Eps 1-5

Sat, 27 May 2023 16:00:58 GMT

This week's episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week. This week, David Chen and @joyonapping cover the first 5 episodes of Silo on Apple TV+. This includes:

Ep 1 - Freedom Day
Ep 2 - Holston’s Pick
Ep 3 - Machines
Ep 4 - Truth
Ep 5 - The Janitor’s Boy

What do we think of the world-building of this ambitious new series? Which performances from the cast really stand out? Why are the vibes of the Silo so intoxicating? Which mysteries do we think are most interesting? And is it really wasteful to throw away apples at a funeral? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more.

Links:

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Succession S4E09 - Church and State

Mon, 22 May 2023 15:02:07 GMT

This episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the ninth episode of Succession season 4, “Church and State.”

A gathering brings the siblings together to share their thoughts on Logan. How do they each handle the occasion? How will the show handle its election plotline? What plotlines are surprisingly paid off in this episode? And what are we hoping for and looking for in the series finale next week? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there! Our current plan is to broadcast live next week after the finale.

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Mrs. Davis Season 1

Fri, 19 May 2023 15:10:26 GMT

This episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, Dan Gvozden and David Chen cover the final 4 episodes of Mrs. Davis on Peacock, the latest series from Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof. How well did the finale tie up all the ideas? Was Simone and Wiley’s arc a satisfying one? How did the world-building work for us? And is Mrs. Davis some much-needed anti-AI-hype in a world that’s full of hype right now? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week we’ll be discussing the first few weeks of Silo on Apple TV+. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

We’re going to try broadcasting This Week In Streaming live as often as possible, so please do follow us on YouTube and on Twitch and you’ll get notifications whenever we go live.

Links:

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Succession S4E08 - America Decides

Mon, 15 May 2023 16:41:51 GMT

This episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the eighth episode of Succession season 4, “America Decides.”

It’s Election Night and ATN is ready! Or is it? Can Shiv keep her alliance with Matsson alive? And is there any hope for Shiv and Tom at this point? Will Kendall step up to the plate and do the right thing? Is Roman finally coming into his own as the One True Logan Successor? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Dead Ringers Season 1

Fri, 12 May 2023 21:11:58 GMT

This week's podcast is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, Siddhant Adlakha and David Chen finish their conversation about Dead Ringers. How well did this show tie together all its disparate themes? What did we think of Rachel Weisz’s performance as the Mantle twins? Does the show have anything interesting to say about the hospital industrial complex or the nature of toxic codependent relationships? And how does it compare with David Cronenberg’s 1988 classic film, which serves as the source material for the show?

Next week we’ll be wrapping up our conversation about Mrs. Davis’ first season. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast and what you think we should discuss next at Decodingtv@gmail.com.

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Succession S4E07 - Tailgate Party

Mon, 08 May 2023 15:28:30 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the seventh episode of Succession season 4, “Tailgate Party.”

A party with important dignitaries pits Shiv against her brothers once more. Can the Roys escape their endless cycle of conflict? Is there any redemption to be found for any of these characters in the final episodes of Succession? What will become of Shiv’s relationship with Tom? And most importantly: Who is going to President in the Succession-verse? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Mrs. Davis Eps 1-4

Wed, 03 May 2023 21:56:46 GMT

This week's episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, Siddhant Adlakha and David Chen cover the first 4 episodes of Mrs. Davis on Peacock, a new series from Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof. What…is this show? How well does it tackle its ostensible themes of religion and determinism? In which ways is Betty Gilpin spectacular as Simone/Lizzy? And is this something we’d recommend you watch all the way to the end? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week we’ll be wrapping up our conversation about Dead Ringers’ first season and comparing it to the David Cronenberg film. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

Links:

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Succession S4E06 - Living+

Mon, 01 May 2023 12:03:46 GMT

This episode is brought to you by the McDonald's app.

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the sixth episode of Succession season 4, “Living+.”

The Roy gang is on the verge of announcing a new product to the world. But will it be their savior or their downfall? Can they fend off Matsson’s opinions in time to make an impact in their stock price? How well does this episode depict the intensity of putting together a speech like this? What are the real-life events and analogues that may have informed this episode? And what’s going on between Tom and Shiv exactly? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Dead Ringers Eps 1-2

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:20:55 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

This week, Siddhant Adlakha and David Chen cover the first two episodes of Dead Ringers on Prime Video, a new series inspired by David Cronenberg’s 1988 classic. How well does Rachel Weisz handle playing a dual role as twins? What do we make of the fluctuating tone of these first two episodes? What’s going on with the group therapy buttons at the end of each episode? Has Succession really ruined us on Rich People Drama? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Next week we’ll be covering Mrs. Davis and in the weeks to come, we will be wrapping up our conversation about Dead Ringers’ first season and comparing it to the David Cronenberg film. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

Links:

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Succession S4E05 - Kill List

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:04:40 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the fifth episode of Succession season 4, “Kill List.”

The gang heads off to Europe for a game of “musical electric chairs.” But what exactly is Lukas Matsson’s game? Have Kendall and Roman learned anything about CEO’ing in the past few years? What’s the deal between Shiv and Matsson? And Shiv and Tom, for that matter? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Also: we’re putting highlights/excerpts of our podcast episodes up on our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch us over there!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Barry S4E01 and E02 - yikes and bestest place on earth

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 12:53:56 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

On this episode, Siddhant and David discuss the first two episodes of Barry Season 4. What do we think of the tone changes in this show? Is it fair to compare its style to Terrence Malick? Where do we think this season is going? Can we ever, really, truly escape who we are? Listen to us discuss all this and much more!

Next week we will be discussing Dead Ringers. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

We’re going to try broadcasting This Week In Streaming live as often as possible, so please do follow us on YouTube and on Twitch and you’ll get notifications whenever we go live.

Links:

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Succession S404 - Honeymoon States

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:38:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the fourth episode of Succession season 4, “Honeymoon States.”

This week’s episode is a big emotional comedown from last week, as each character processes the big news. Marcia returns, but is her presence welcome? Will any of the underlings like Karl or Frank finally get the chance to shine? What’s the difference between an underline and a cross-out? Do the Roy kids have any chance of staying united? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Beef Season 1

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:59:17 GMT

This Week In Streaming is a new podcast on the Decoding TV podcast feed that will cover the most interesting shows available on streaming each week.

On this episode, Siddhant and David wrap up their discussion of Beef Season 1. Do we think that Amy and Danny deserved their ultimate fates? What is this show trying to say about modern life? What are our thoughts on the show’s very final shot? What did we think of the hard swerve in episode 9? We discuss all these questions and much more!

Next week we’ll be covering Barry and in the weeks to come, we will be discussing Dead Ringers. Will This Week In Streaming cover more after that? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think of the podcast! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

Links:

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Succession S4E03 - Connor's Wedding

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:46:38 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the third episode of Succession season 4, “Connor’s Wedding.”

A major development happens this episode that reconfigures the endgame for this show. How do each of the main characters handle it? What did we think of the unique filmmaking style of this episode? How did we react to the episode in real time? What do we think the rest of this season will even be about? And is this episode one of the greatest TV episodes of all time? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Also: We didn’t get screeners for this episode in advance so we broadcast our chat live on YouTube! Be sure to subscribe to the Decoding TV YouTube channel to get notified when we go live in the future.

Links:

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This Week In Streaming: Beef Eps 1-2

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 20:14:47 GMT

Hey Decoding TV folks! David Chen here with an exciting announcement.

For the past year, Decoding TV has been doing weekly deep dives into different TV shows and streaming shows with some of the best writers and commentators on the internet. But while the weekly recap model works really well for a bunch of shows like The Last of Us, Westworld, and Succession, it takes a lot of time and commitment to cover a show that way and if we confined ourselves only to this model, there would just be a bunch of shows that Decoding TV wouldn’t cover.

That’s why I’m so pleased to announce a new show, which I’m calling This Week In Streaming, which will cover the latest and greatest in what’s available on streaming platforms. The idea is that every week, in addition to any weekly recaps going on at Decoding TV, we will cover one of the most interesting, thought-provoking, and/or critically acclaimed shows on TV. We won’t recap every single episode of these TV shows. Instead:

We will make a podcast discussing the first episode or two of the TV show
Later, we will record another podcast discussing the last episode of the TV show and reflect on the season as a whole

Over the course of the next few weeks, we will cover Beef on Netflix, Barry on HBO, Dead Ringers on Amazon Prime. As just mentioned, we’ll cover the first eps of these shows (with no spoilers for the rest of the show), and then have a season-ending discussion in a separate episode. This Week In Streaming will appear on the Decoding TV podcast feed so if you’re listening to us on a podcast app, you don’t need to do anything else to get future episodes.

I am enormously grateful to Siddhant Adlakha for joining me for this initial batch of episodes to kick this off. Siddhant will be joining me to cover Beef, Barry, and Dead Ringers. Siddhant will always be part of the Decoding TV family but as time goes on, we may rotate different and exciting voices in and out of the co-host chair.

Will This Week In Streaming cover more shows after this? That’s up to you. Please let us know what you think! Decodingtv@gmail.com.

One last thing: We’re going to try broadcasting This Week In Streaming live as often as possible. So please do follow us on YouTube and on Twitch and you’ll get notifications whenever we go live.

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Succession S4E02 - Rehearsal

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Support this podcast by becoming a paid member at decodingtv.com!

In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the second episode of Succession season 4, “Rehearsal.”

A business deal threatens another Roy family event. Will the Roy children be able to overcome their differences in time for the board meeting? What exactly is Logan try to build at the new ATN? Will Mattson get cold feet for the Gojo deal? Will Connor ever experience the fullness of emotion that human life has to offer? Will Kerry ever get to anchor her own show? Listen to us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

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Decoding Decoding TV - Rich People Have Feelings Too

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:22:21 GMT

This bonus episode is free but you can get all our bonus episodes by becoming a paid subscriber at DecodingTV.com!

We’re trying something new with Decoding TV this season. In the past when we’ve done bonus episodes, they’ve typically analyzed the pre-existing materials for a TV show (e.g. House of the Dragon, The Last of Us). Since Succession is original IP, it demands a different approach.

As such, I’ve invited David Cho to join me to do a few bonus episodes throughout the season. David Cho is a media veteran and has previously been the publisher of sites such as Grantland, FiveThirtyEight, and The Awl. His expertise is highly valued by media companies, celebrities, and global brands, and I’m pleased he’s sharing it with us here.

[David and I also co-hosts an ongoing podcast on my personal Patreon page, Dave on Dave, in which he critiques and provides feedback on my online work.]

In this bonus episode, we spoil and discuss Succession S4E01 - The Munsters, including how realistic the dealmaking was this episode, why it is that the Roys don’t really wear coats, and how rich people have feelings too.

Links:

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Succession S4E01 - The Munsters

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:30:35 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

Succession has returned and the Roys are back to the old backstabbing, treacherous ways! In this episode of Decoding TV, Kim Renfro and David Chen recap and review the first episode of season 4, “The Munsters.”

How much has the status quo changed since the last episode? Do we think The Hundred would actually be a successful media venture? Is “The Disgusting Brothers” a good nickname for Greg and Tom? Is Logan Roy’s conversation with Colin one of the saddest scenes that’s ever happened in the history of this show? We discuss this and so much more!

Paid subscribers: You can get your premium feed in your podcast app by going to decodingtv.com/listen. Thanks for being a supporter!

Links:

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Succession Season 3 Look-Back and Season 4 Preview

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 15:36:28 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

Succession is back this Sunday for a fourth and final season! I’m so pleased to be able to bring you weekly coverage of the show featuring my A Cast of Kings co-host Kim Renfro.

In this special season 4 preview episode, we discuss:

Why is it we love Succession so much?
Where we left off with each of the Roy characters at the end of season 3
Jesse Armstrong’s comments on why he wanted to end the show
Where we think season 4 will wrap up
Where we want to see each of the Roys end up
The biggest jettisoned plotlines from earlier on in the show
And much more!

I’m grateful to Kim for being willing to join me as Succession comes to a thrilling close, and grateful all Decoding TV paid members for making this podcast possible. I hope you can join us!

Links:

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The Last of Us Season 1 Post-Mortem

Sat, 18 Mar 2023 16:28:13 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

Thanks for a great season of TV recapping! We’ll be recapping Succession next so stay tuned for more episodes of the podcast.

In this Decoding TV bonus episode about The Last Of Us, David and Christian discuss topics such as:

Listener/viewer reactions to the season
The realism of the season finale
The philosophical questions in the discourse
What we think season 2 of the show might look like (spoilers are clearly marked)
And much more!

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E09 - Look for the Light

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:00 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

Thank you for listening this season! We’ve loved making this podcast for you. We’ll be doing one additional bonus episode next week responding to feedback and other thoughts on season 1 so please stay tuned.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 9 of The Last Of Us, “Look for the Light.”

Joel and Ellie wrap up their journey for the season. But how well does this ending work? Do we think Kiss Kiss Bang Bang could’ve prevented the tragedy that takes place in this episode? And at the end of the day, what do we think this show is trying to say about love and grief? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E08 - When We Are In Need

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 14:27:17 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 8 of The Last Of Us, “When We Are In Need.”

A new character illustrates a different element of the post-apocalypse. But how believable is the character of David? What do we make of Joel’s turn this episode? And how amazing is Bella Ramsay in this episode? (Spoiler: Extremely!). We discuss all this and more on this week’s episode.

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E07 - Left Behind

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:30:16 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan - EVs that electrify.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 7 of The Last Of Us, “Left Behind.”

A detour takes us away from the main timeline of the series. How well does it work in at this point in the story? How does it compare to the game? What does it teach us about Ellie’s life and her relationship to others? And what is this show trying to say about FEDRA anyways? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more.

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow this podcast on Instagram
Follow this podcast on Tiktok
Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Subscribe to Christian Spicer’s newsletter, Let’s Chat Games
Check out Christian Spicer’s videogame podcast, DLC

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The Last of Us S1E06 - Kin

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 16:05:09 GMT

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:

Nissan - EVs that electrify
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In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 6 of The Last Of Us, “Kin.”

Joel and Ellie reunite with someone familiar in unexpected circumstances. What is the source of friction between the characters? How will Joel deal with the possibility of getting out of his commitment to Tess? And is Joel going to make it out of this situation alive? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E05 - Endure and Survive

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 03:15:00 GMT

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:

Nissan - EVs that electrify
The McDonald's app - Download the McDonald's app today

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 5 of HBO’s The Last Of Us, ‘Endure and Survive’

This episode finishes off a two-episode arc as we continue to follow the stories of Kathleen, Henry, and Sam. How good was Henry’s escape plan, exactly? Is Kathleen a compelling character? What does this episode’s script do well (and not)? And what does this show have in common with World War Z? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E04 - Please Hold To My Hand

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:12:32 GMT

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:

Nissan - EVs that electrify
The McDonald's app - Download the McDonald's app today

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 4 of HBO’s The Last Of Us, ‘Please Hold To My Hand.’

This episode captures the bombed out countryside of the U.S. as Joel and Ellie continue their journey. How well does the episode bring this post-apocalyptic country to life? How effectively does it capture the set pieces from the game? Where is Joel and Ellie’s relationship at this point? And what’s up with these new characters that are introduced? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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The Last of Us S1E03 - Long Long Time

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 17:56:46 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by our sponsors:

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 3 of HBO’s The Last Of Us. Every single episode of this show has been better than the last. Has the show finally peaked? We don’t know but either way, this was a tremendous episode of television.

How effectively did the show depict the relationship between Bill and Frank? Is this show’s vision of the American government a realistic one? And what was up with that weird scene between Ellie and that dude in the basement? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!

Links:

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The Last Of Us S1E02 - Infected

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 14:00:15 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss season 1 episode 2 of HBO’s The Last Of Us.

What do Christian and David thinks of these flashback cold opens (a TV show invention)? How does Tess and Joel’s relationship reveal itself through the course of the episode? What do we learn about this specific post-apocalyptic universe this time around? And how about that ending? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

Links:

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Bonus Ep. - Outbreak Day, Joel and Tess's Relationship, The Neighbors, Marlene and Ellie

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 01:00:37 GMT

To get more bonus episodes like this one, consider becoming a paid member at DecodingTV.com!

In this Decoding TV bonus episode about The Last Of Us, David and Christian discuss many of the changes between the videogame and the TV series, including:

The framing of Outbreak Day
The relationship between Joel and Tess
What’s going on with Joel and Sarah’s neighbors
Marlene and Ellie’s relationship
And much more!

NOTE: We’ve tried really hard to keep this as non-spoilery as possible but show-watchers-only should be warned that you may consider some of this material to be spoilers.

Links:

Email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follow this podcast on Instagram
Follow this podcast on Tiktok
Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube
Subscribe to Christian Spicer’s newsletter, Let’s Chat Games
Check out Christian Spicer’s videogame podcast, DLC

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The Last Of Us S1E01 - When You're Lost In The Darkness

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 06:55:59 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan. Nissan - EVs that electrify.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Christian Spicer discuss the series premiere of HBO’s The Last Of Us. Join us each week for episode recaps and bonus episodes discussing the show!

How successfully does this beloved story make the jump to TV? How well does the casting work? Does this show have anything new to add to our cluttered post-apocalyptic TV landscape? Listen to hear our thoughts on these questions, and much more!

Links:

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Bonus Ep. - The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (with Ashley Esqueda and Siddhant Adlakha)

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Happy holidays, all! In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David Chen is joined by Ashley Esqueda and Siddhant Adlakha to discuss The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special. What is it like to see Marvel superheroes participating in everyday Earth rituals? Does the special rely too much on your real-life knowledge of [REDACTED]? And how important is it to watch this Special before the next Guardians of the Galaxy movie? Listen to hear our thoughts!

Links:

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1899 Season 1 Review

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 14:00:44 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by Nissan. Nissan - EVs that electrify.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen, Joy, and Kim Renfro discuss the hit Netflix series 1899 (from the creators of Dark). What did we think of the production design of this unique TV show? How did the characters evolve and change? Where do they end up? And most importantly: WTF is going on with the ending of this show?

This podcast episode begins with overall thoughts before heading into full spoilers.

Links:

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Five Questions We Have About HBO's 'The Last of Us' (with Christian Spicer)

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Support this podcast by becoming a paid member of DecodingTV.com.

For Decoding TV’s coverage of The Last of Us, I couldn’t be more thrilled to have a co-host who’s a veritable Last of Us expert. Christian Spicer co-hosts the DLC videogame podcast and is the host of The Official Last of Us podcast(!). In this introductory podcast episode, we discuss five burning questions we have about the upcoming series.

The Last of Us series will debut on HBO on January 15th. You can expect the our next podcast episode to be a recap that covers the season premiere. I hope you’ll consider joining us for the journey.

Links:

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The White Lotus S2E07 - Arrivederci

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 03:00:00 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan. Nissan - EVs that electrify!

In this episode of Decoding TV, Roxana Hadadi and David Chen discuss the shocking season 2 finale of The White Lotus. We finally learn who the dead bodies are in the season premiere but is the result narratively satisfying? Did Harper and Ethans’ relationship play out in a believable way? Should Meghann Fahy win an Emmy for her work this season? (spoiler: yes) Did the Di Grasso family learn anything from this whole misadventure? Did Valentina’s storyline end up resonating? Listen to us discuss all this and more! Roxana and I will be back with one additional bonus episode for paid DecodingTV.com members sometime in the next week or so.

Decoding TV will be covering The Last Of Us, premiering on HBO on January 15th! Be sure to stay subscribed to get all our episodes, with a special announcement sometime in the next week. Thanks to everyone who has listened this season, thanks to Decoding TV paid members for making this podcast possible, and a big thanks to Roxana Hadadi for joining us on this journey!

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The White Lotus Season 2 Finale - Initial Reactions

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 06:59:22 GMT

Hey folks,

David Chen here. Roxana Hadadi and I had originally planned to record our White Lotus season 2 finale recap this evening but due to scheduling issues, we’re going to be delivering that full episode tomorrow instead.

In the meantime, here are our quick reactions to the finale, which we just finished watching this evening. Stay tuned tomorrow for the full episode!

Links:

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The White Lotus S2E06 - Abductions

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 15:28:03 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi recap and discuss season 2 episode 6 of The White Lotus, “Abductions.”

Tanya discovers multiple shocking secrets about Quentin, but what exactly is his endgame? Portia realizes the disadvantages of seeing a guy like Jack, but can she extricate herself before she gets in too deep? Ethan starts wondering where exactly he and Harper stand with each other, but can their relationship be saved? We discuss all this and more in the podcast! Plus: we make predictions for the finale episode! Send in yours to decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com!

Decoding TV paid members: You can add the private private Decoding TV feed to your preferred app/device by going to decodingtv.com/listen.

Links:

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The Crown S5E07 thru S5E10 - No Woman’s Land, Gunpowder, Couple 31, Decommissioned

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 04:17:11 GMT

This episode is sponsored by Nissan. Nissan - EVs that electrify.

Programming note: Thanks for joining us for our coverage of The Crown this season! If the new Harry and Meghan Netflix documentary is worth discussing, we’ll be covering it here on Decoding TV in the weeks to come.

David Chen and @joyonapping are covering The Crown season 5 in three installments:

Episodes 1-3
Episodes 4-6
Episodes 7-10 (this episode)

Today, we discuss The Crown Season 5 episodes 7-10, “No Woman’s Land,” “Gunpowder,” “Couple 31,” and “Decommissioned.”

How did The Crown handle the saga of the Martin Bashir interview? Why is the show seemingly intent on rehabilitating the image of Charles and Camilla? Did we really have to end season five by exploring the plotline of the Royal Yacht again? What is the effect of juxtaposing normal everyday divorces with the cataclysmic one depicted in the show? We discuss all this and more!

Links:

Follow @joyonapping on Twitter
Subscribe to David Chen’s new newsletter, Decoding Everything
Follow Decoding TV
On YouTube
On Twitter
On Tiktok
On Instagram

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Andor Season 1 Post-Mortem

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:53:56 GMT

This episode is brought to you by Nissan. Nissan - EVs that electrify.

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss all the stuff they wish they’d mentioned on the Andor season 1 finale wrap-up, including:

What are the details we know about season 2 at this point? How did the Decoding TV indirectly end up annoying Tony Gilroy? Is Luthen actually a Jedi? What is the significance of the funeral procession song that plays in episode 12? Why aren’t there more aliens in the show? What are the advantages of having a big hood, Luthen-style? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and much more!

Did you enjoy Decoding TV this season? Consider supporting the podcast at decodingtv.com.

NOTE: This episode contains details that could conceivably be considered MILD SPOILERS for season 2, so tread carefully if you’re trying to avoid. See y’all in 2024!

Links:

Follow Decoding TV

Follow Patrick H. Willems

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The White Lotus S2E05 - That's Amore

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:00:18 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by McDonald's, proudly serving communities since 1965. McDonald’s. I’m lovin’ it.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi recap and discuss season 2 episode 5 of The White Lotus, “That’s Amore.”

In this episode, Quentin further ingratiates himself with Tanya. But what’s his real endgame? Cam, Daphne, Ethan, and Harper keep trying to make this vacation work, come hell or high water. Things with Albie and Portia come to a predictable conclusion(?), plus Bert and Dom finally attempt to hash out some of their longstanding differences. We discuss all this and more in this week’s episode!

Decoding TV paid members: You can add the private private Decoding TV feed to your preferred app/device by going to decodingtv.com/listen.

Links:

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The Crown S5E04 thru S5E06 - Annus Horribilis, The Way Ahead, Ipatiev House

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 20:00:56 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by McDonald's, proudly serving communities since 1965. McDonald’s. I’m lovin’ it.

David Chen and @joyonapping are covering The Crown season 5 in three installments:

Episodes 1-3
Episodes 4-6 (this episode)
Episodes 7-10

Today, we discuss The Crown Season 5 episodes 4-6, “Annus Horribilis,” “The Way Ahead,” and “Ipatiev House.” How does show manage the evolution of Elizabeth/Phillip’s marriage? How well does it tie in historical events with what’s happening during the show? Why is there a startling lack of Diana and Charles this season? And why on earth is this show doing Charles image rehab after the events of season 4? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

DecodingTV.com subscribers: To add the premium feed of Decoding TV to your podcast app, go to DecodingTV.com/listen and follow the instructions.

Links:

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Andor S1E12 - Rix Road

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 17:00:33 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by McDonald's, proudly serving communities since 1965. McDonald’s. I’m lovin’ it.

In this Decoding TV episode, Patrick Willems and David Chen discuss the season 1 finale of Andor, “Rix Road.” Thanks to all DecodingTV.com members for making this season of the podcast possible!

Note that Patrick and David plan to do one more bonus episode, so be sure to email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com with your questions, comments, theories, and so on. We’ll discuss them in the next week or two.

The season finale brings all the plotlines together on Ferrix. Do Luthen and Cassian patch things up? Are Vel and Cinta happy to see each other? What is the fate of Bix? Is Maarva actually dead or was she planning something huge all along? And for the love of god, where do we leave #keero at the end of this episode? Listen to hear us discuss all this and more!

You can always email us at decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)com.

Links:

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Welcome to Chippendale's Season Premiere Review (Eps 1-2)

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 04:30:50 GMT

This episode of Decoding TV is brought to you by McDonald's, proudly serving communities since 1965. McDonald’s. I’m lovin’ it.

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha discuss Welcome to Chippendales, a new Hulu original series starring Kumail Nanjiani about the creation of the Chippendales male revue show.

Programming note: In this podcast episode we will cover (and spoil) the first two episodes of Welcome to Chippendales, “An Elegant, Exclusive Atmosphere,” and “Four Geniuses”. We will record one other podcast episode later to discuss the finale and entire season.

How well does Welcome to Chippendales get the persona of Somen "Steve" Banerjee, the man responsible for creating Chippendales? Does the show make good use of Murray Bartlett and Dan Stevens? And does it capture what it’s like to be an Indian immigrant in America during this time period? We discuss all this and more!

Links:

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The White Lotus S2E4 - In The Sandbox

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 20:00:48 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi recap and discuss season 2 episode 4 of The White Lotus, “In The Sandbox.”

Harper quietly begins to reckon with some of the shocking events of last episode, while Cam, Daphne, and Ethan are none the wiser. Albie and Portia continue to have massive issues trying to make this vacation fling work. Valentina is straight up just bad at her job at this point. And Tanya makes a new connection that may lead her down an interesting path. We discuss all this and more in this week’s episode!

Decoding TV paid members: You can add the private private Decoding TV feed to your preferred app/device by going to decodingtv.com/listen.

Links:

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The Crown S5E01 thru S5E03 - Queen Victoria Syndrome, The System, Mou Mou

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 19:37:15 GMT

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by McDonald's, proudly serving communities since 1965. McDonald's. I'm lovin' it.

After a long wait, all episodes of The Crown Season 5 are finally here! David Chen and @joyonapping are planning to cover The Crown in three installments:

Episodes 1-3 (this episode)
Episodes 4-6
Episodes 7-10

This is our first time covering a binge-release show on Netflix so if you have any thoughts on this approach, feel free to email us at decodingtv@gmail.com. It won’t change our plans for this season but could for future seasons.

Today, we discuss The Crown Season 5 episodes 1-3, “Queen Victoria Syndrome,” “The System,” and “Mou Mou.” How does this season continue the Diana/Charles storyline? How does the new cast work for us so far? Did the writing of Andrew Morton’s book really go down like it does in the show? How exciting is carriage racing as a sport? Are the metaphors more clunky this season or is it just our imagination? All this and more on this week’s episode of Decoding TV!

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Andor S1E11 - Daughter of Ferrix

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 03:20:39 GMT

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In this Decoding TV episode, Patrick Willems and David Chen dive into season 1 episode 11 of Andor, “Daughter of Ferrix,” now streaming on Disney+.

The penultimate episode of the first season puts in place many pieces for what promises to be an explosive finale. But it also raises a lot of questions like: Is Luthen secretly a Jedi? How different are Mon Mothma’s views on marriage from her daughter’s? Where will next episode leave #Keero? How will Andor and Melshi reunite? Also, David and Patrick discuss what they would like done with their remains. All this and more on this episode of Decoding TV!

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The White Lotus S2E03 - Bull Elephants

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 13:56:40 GMT

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi recap and discuss season 2 episode 3 of The White Lotus, “Bull Elephants.”

A series of surprising decisions reveal cracks beneath many of our core relationships. What is the nature of Cam and Daphne’s relationship? What does Ethan think of everything that’s going on? Is Albie actually a good guy or not? And why does he have to go after The Godfather anyways? Listen to hear us debate and discuss.

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Andor S1E10 - One Way Out

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:00:05 GMT

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It’s the first live recording of Decoding TV! David Chen and Patrick Willems are at the Hawai’i International Film Festival to share their expertise with students, but they couldn’t turn down the opportunity to record an Andor recap in person. In this Decoding TV episode, they dive into season 1 episode 10 of Andor, “One Way Out,” now streaming on Disney+.

This episode puts the fate of ISB Senior Officer Lonni Jung front-and-center. How will Lonni fare in Luthen’s world? What is the show trying to say about revolutions and the people behind them? What is the ultimate fate of Kino Loy? Do Andor and Melshi end up surviving this week’s events? (Probably). Also: Where’s the #Karntent this week? All this and more on this episode of Decoding TV!

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The White Lotus S2E02 - Italian Dream

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:00:05 GMT

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi recap and discuss season 2 episode 2 of The White Lotus, “Italian Dream.”

This episode continues to set up the dynamics between these characters, with some tantalizing clues as to what lies ahead. How are Harper and Ethan really doing? Is Cam’s anger really under control? Will Dominic ever overcome his demons? Listen to hear us discuss and speculate!

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The Crown: Season 4 Lookback and Season 5 Preview

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Decoding TV is kicking off our coverage of The Crown today! In this episode, David Chen and his wife @joyonapping offer their overall thoughts on the show, why it continues to be compelling after all these years, and what the next seasons might have in store.

Programming Note: While Decoding TV will cover Season 5 of The Crown, we’re still working out the details of our coverage. At the very least, we can promise there will be one more Decoding TV podcast episode discussing season 5 but we may or may not have weekly coverage given that the show will be released binge-style on Netflix beginning November 9th. Stay tuned to Decoding TV for more details.

The Crown is returning to Netflix on November 9th for its fifth and penultimate season. Its last season drew attention for its depiction of Princess Diana and her marriage to Charles - an event that even many millennials such as myself remember in their lifetimes. Season five promises to begin following that story to its horrifying conclusion (the show currently plans to end with season six).

The production of The Crown is estimated to cost over $100 million per season, making it one of the most expensive TV shows ever made. It’s also one of the most critically acclaimed: The Crown has been nominated for hundreds of awards since its premiere in 2017, including Outstanding Drama Series at the Emmys and Best Television Drama at the Golden Globes. In 2021, it won all seven drama categories at the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards, becoming the first show to ever do so.

Listen to this episode to hear David and Joy discuss where we left off with every plotline from season four and what topics we think season five will probably tackle.

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Emergency Podcast: Westworld Has Been Cancelled

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 02:19:50 GMT

Welp, it’s official: Westworld has been cancelled. Once one of HBO’s biggest tentpole shows, Westworld has seen its popularity and viewership erode over time.

In this bonus episode, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha discuss their feelings about this news and the legacy that Westworld leaves behind.

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Andor S1E09 - Nobody's Listening!

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 00:00:15 GMT

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David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 9 of Andor, “Nobody’s Listening!,” now streaming on Disney+.

How does a show like Andor tackle depictions of torture? How well does the show deal with Kino Loy’s personal journey? Is Mon Mothma ever going to get on board with this whole Rebellion thing? Also: The Keero ship finally gets its day. All this and more on this episode of ~Decoding TV!

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The White Lotus S2E01 - Ciao

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 12:00:23 GMT

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A new season begins at The White Lotus in Sicily! And here on Decoding TV, David Chen and Roxana Hadadi try to figure out where exactly this show might be headed.

In the season 2 premiere, “Ciao,” we meet, Harper (Aubrey Plaza) and Ethan (Will Sharpe), along with Daphne (Meghann Fahy) and Cameron (Theo James) who are away on a vacation together. Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) and her assistant Portia (Haley Lu Richardson) try to navigate a fraught situation with Greg (Jon Gries). Dominic (Michael Imperioli), his father Bert (F. Murray Abraham), and his son Albie (Adam DiMarco) try their best to get along. And hotel manager Valentina (Sabrina Impacciatore) tries to keep locals Mia (Beatrice Grannò) and Lucia (Simona Tabasco) at bay. Listen to hear our thoughts on the episode!

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Andor S1E08 - Narkina 5

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

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David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 8 of Andor, “Narkina 5,” now streaming on Disney+.

Unexpected developments put Andor in an untenable situation. Will Cassian get back to Maarva while he still can? Will Meero figure out who Axis truly is? Can Bix survive the most recent incursion? Also: we get a weekly #Karntent check in. All this and more on this week’s episode of Decoding TV covering Andor!

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The White Lotus - Season 1 Lookback and Season 2 Preview (with Roxana Hadadi)

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:59:50 GMT

The second season of The White Lotus will debut on October 30 on HBO and run for 7 episodes, and I’m thrilled to share that Decoding TV will be recapping and reviewing each episode. Furthermore, I’m excited to announce that my co-host will be Roxana Hadadi, a TV critic at Vulture.com and one of my favorite writers on the internet today.

In this episode of Decoding TV, we discuss season 1 of The White Lotus, with a particular focus on its finale. Where did we leave off with each of these characters? What was this show trying to say about wealth and privilege, and how effectively did it say it? And what about that whole murder mystery plot? Listen to hear our thoughts on all of the above!

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Andor S1E07 - Announcement

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT

David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 7 of Andor, “Announcement,” now streaming on Disney+.

This week is a transitional episode as all of our characters react to the major developments from last week. Where do we see Andor’s arc going in this show? How will Karn, Cinta, and Vel play into it? What does the Imperial Security Bureau have to do with Google Messaging apps? And most importantly: What should we call the Karn/Meero ship? Keero? Marn? Listen to hear our theories and wild speculations!

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The Rings of Power S1E08 - Alloyed

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 16:00:05 GMT

David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the eighth episode of the first season of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘Alloyed.’

In the season 1 finale, several major twists are revealed with one major headfake thrown in for good measure. But how well did the show earn them? Where do things stand at the end of season 1 for our major characters? What plot threads are we looking forward to for season 2? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

Also: starting at 1:38:00, we dive into full book spoilers for a bit! Enjoy.

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She-Hulk S1E09 - Whose Show Is This?

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Dan Gvozden from The Amazing Spider-Talk joins David and Siddhant Adlakha to dive into the season 1 finale of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law.

The finale upends where we think this show is going, while providing some amusing meta-commentary about how Marvel shows are put together in general. But taken as a whole, does this season all add up to anything meaningful? Listen to hear our thoughts!

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Andor S1E06 - The Eye

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 00:00:55 GMT

David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 6 of Andor, “The Eye,” now streaming on Disney+.

The heist is afoot and it is spectacular! Andor and crew invade the garrison at Aldhani. But who will live? Who will die? And will anything be done to subvert our expectations for what heists can be? Listen to hear our theories and wild speculations!

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Bonus Ep. - Werewolf By Night

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:16:59 GMT

It’s a Decoding TV Halloween bonus episode! Ashley Esqueda joins David Chen to discuss Michael Giacchino’s Werewolf by Night, now streaming on Disney Plus. In the movie, Gael Garcia Bernal plays Jack, a man who attends a gathering of monster hunters in pursuit of a powerful artifact called the Bloodstone, only to find that the night has surprises for them all.

In what ways does Werewolf by Night connect to the MCU? How does Giacchino fare as a first-time feature director? Do we want to see more of these “Marvel Special Presentations” in the future? Listen and find out!

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The Rings of Power S1E07 - The Eye

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 13:00:34 GMT

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David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the seventh episode of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘The Eye.’

Who survived the events of last episode? Are we eventually going to learn who The Stranger is? Also, did Galadriel just have a husband this whole time?? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk S1E08 - Ribbit and Rip It

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 19:00:49 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Dan Gvozden from The Amazing Spider-Talk subs in for David Chen and joins Siddhant Adlakha in diving into Charles Soule and Javier Pullido’s run of She-Hulk - one of the inspirations behind She-Hulk: Attorney At Law and a glimpse into where the show could head in a future season.

Then, starting at 18:30, the two discuss the eighth episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “Ribbit and Rip It.” Jen trades blows and kisses with Matt Murdoch, aka Daredevil, grounds Leap Frog, and sees her world come crashing down around her at the hands of the Hulk King.

Next week: David Chen returns for the finale and a discussion of the season as a whole.

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Andor S1E05 - The Axe Forgets

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 00:00:17 GMT

David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 5 of Andor, “The Axe Forgets,” now streaming on Disney+.

Another heist setup episode lets us get to know the characters from Vel’s crew and understand their motivations. But who will survive next episode? What will (inevitably) go wrong? Will we ever see a Mon Mothma dinner party? And how is Karn going to fit into any of this? Listen to hear our theories and wild speculations!

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The Rings of Power S1E06 - Udun

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 16:24:48 GMT

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David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the sixth episode of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘Udun.’ A visually spectacular and intense episode that begins tying up many of the plotlines introduced earlier this season.

Is this The Rings of Power’s first “hard R” episode? What are the homages to Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings? Who lives and who dies at the end of this thing? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk S1E07 - The Retreat

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, Dan Gvozden from The Amazing Spider-Talk subs in for David Chen and joins Siddhant Adlakha in diving into Dan Slott’s run of She-Hulk - arguably the biggest inspiration for She-Hulk: Attorney At Law.

Then, starting at around 23:14, the two discuss the seventh episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “The Retreat.” Jen visits Emil Blonsky’s retreat, but how effectively does it help her find herself?

Next week: Our opening topic will be Charles Soule and Javier Puilido’s run of She-Hulk.

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Andor S1E04 - Aldhani

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 00:28:22 GMT

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David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into season 1 episode 4 of Andor, “Aldhani,” now streaming on Disney+.

When does Andor take place in the Star Wars timeline? Is Cassian the Waingro of Vel’s crew? What is the ultimate fate of Blevins? And how do you pronounce Coruscant anyway? Listen to find out!

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The Rings of Power S1E05 - Partings

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 14:30:45 GMT

David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the fifth episode of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘Partings.’ This episode, Galadriel needs to convince Númenor to sail into battle…again?

Why does Gil-galad kinda look down on Elrond? And what is the nature of Elrond’s oath to Durin? Who is The Stranger? When exactly is all the Southlands stuff taking place? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk S1E06 - Just Jen

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 11:26:11 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Siddhant start by discussing Netflix’s Daredevil. Why does that show seem to still capture the popular imagination when it comes to Marvel properties? What did it do that no other MCU show has been able to? And where is Matt Murdock now?

Then, starting at around 31:52, the two dive into sixth episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “Just Jen.” An inconveniently-timed, self-contained wedding episode!

Next week: Our opening topic will be Dan Slott’s first 6 issues of Single Green Female, featuring Dan Gvozden.

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Andor S1E01 thru S1E03 - Kassa, That Would Be Me, Reckoning

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 12:17:47 GMT

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David Chen and Patrick Willems dive into the first three episodes of Andor, now streaming on Disney+.

How and why does Andor feel different than any other Star Wars show out there? How will the rest of the show be structured? What arc for Cassian Andor is the show sketching out? Is Syril Karn an irredeemable villain or a sympathetic middle manager? Listen to find out!

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Revisiting 'Rogue One' and kicking off our 'Andor' coverage (with Patrick H. Willems)

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 18:05:32 GMT

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We are thrilled to welcome Patrick H. Willems to the Decoding TV podcast! Willems is a filmmaker, cultural commentator, and one of my favorite video essayists on the internet. I’ve enjoyed conversing with Patrick for years on YouTube and on podcasts but I’m so thrilled to be able to cover a TV show with him on Decoding TV.

In this inaugural episode kicking off our Andor coverage, we discuss the troubled history of Rogue One, where the movie shows clear signs of behind-the-scenes turmoil, and what we still really like about the movie.

Andor premieres Wednesday, September 21. Our plan is for our Andor coverage to release by Thursday nights. As always, paid members will get episodes earlier and get any bonus episodes we record during the show’s run. Thanks so much for your support!

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The Rings of Power S1E04 - The Great Wave

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 18:11:45 GMT

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David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the fourth episode of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘The Great Wave.’ This episode, Galadriel tries to convince the city of Númenor to join in her fight. But will they be fighting for the right purpose?

Adar reveals himself, but what are his broader goals? What is calling out for Isildur? When exactly is all the Southlands stuff taking place? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk S1E05 - Mean, Green, and Straight Poured Into These Jeans

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Siddhant start by some of the D23 news that was announced last week, including the return of a Hulk-related character that none of us saw coming.

Then, starting at 18:00, the two dive into third episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “Mean, Green, and Straight Poured Into These Jeans.” While this was a fun episode, it sure seems like something has gone awry with the timeline and pacing of this show!

Next week: Our opening topic will be the Netflix version of Daredevil (played by Charlie Cox) and what the legacy of the character is as we head into the sixth episode of She-Hulk.

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Bonus Ep. - When the Hobbits Wear Your Merch

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 19:54:16 GMT

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Last week, a number of high-profile actors who’ve previously appeared in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring trilogy made social posts while wearing T-shirts from Don Marshall’s online merch store. The shirts displayed the words “You Are All Welcome Here” in Elvish (translation by @WizardWayKris).

In this bonus episode, I asked Don what it was like to experience this entire series of events. Read Don’s recap of the events here.

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The Rings of Power S1E03 - Adar

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 15:13:40 GMT

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David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the third episode of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘Adar.’ This episode, we travel to the land of Númenor and events are set in motion that will likely inform the rest of the season and beyond.

Who is this Adar the orcs keep talking about? Who might Halbrand be, really? What’s up with all the slow-motion horse riding? For answers and speculations that address these questions (and many more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk S1E04 - Is This Not Real Magic?

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 20:00:00 GMT

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Siddhant start by discussing Ang Lee’s 2003 film Hulk. People don’t really talk about this film that much anymore, and it was widely regarded as a disappointment at the time of its release, but does it deserve its reputation?

Then, starting at 33:35, the two dive into third episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “Is This Not Real Magic?” which gives us what we all want: more Wong.

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The Rings of Power S1E01 and E02 - A Shadow of the Past and Adrift

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

David Chen and Don Marshall discuss the first two episodes of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: ‘Shadow of the Past’ and ‘Adrift.’

Who exactly is Morgoth? Is Valinor basically like Elf Heaven? What’s the difference between a Harfoot and a Hobbit? What was the glowing blue stuff in that case that the dwarves open? Who is the Stranger? For answers and speculations about these questions (and much more), listen to the episode!

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She-Hulk: Attorney At Law S1E03 - The People vs. Emil Blonsky

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

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In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Siddhant start by discussing The Sensational She-Hulk by John Byrne Vol. 1. What makes She-Hulk stand out as a character from the rest of The Avengers?

Then, starting at 23:00, the two dive into third episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “The People vs. Emil Blonsky,” which reveals just how much Blonsky has changed since the events of The Incredible Hulk.

Next week: Our main topic will be Ang Lee’s 2003 film Hulk. See you then!

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How to get ready for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (and introducing Don Marshall!)

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 21:02:06 GMT

I’m pleased to announce that Don Marshall will be joining me as my new co-host on the Decoding TV podcast to recap The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power! Don regularly shares his knowledge of Middle Earth with his 580K+ Tiktok followers and I’m so thrilled that he’ll be providing his expertise with us for this momentous show.

In this episode, Don and I discuss how he came to love Lord of the Rings, why the show is a big deal for Amazon (and why it will probably be a big deal for pop culture), and what you as a viewer can do to get ready for the show. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power debuts this Thursday on Prime Video, with subsequent episodes being released on Fridays.

Our Rings of Power recaps will be released on the Decoding TV feed on Saturdays. Decoding TV will continue to cover She-Hulk: Attorney At Law (and hopefully other shows in the future!). As usual, becoming a paid member of DecodingTV.com means you get access to ad-free episodes and bonus episodes of the podcast.

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She-Hulk: Attorney At Law S1E02 - Superhuman Law

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 13:00:01 GMT

In this episode of Decoding TV, David and Siddhant kick things off by reviewing the 2008 sci-fi action film The Incredible Hulk, directed by Louis Leterrier. The Incredible Hulk was one of the first Marvel films of modern times, but it remains largely forgotten. Is it, in fact, an underrated gem? Listen to find out!

Then, starting at 42:15, the two dive into second episode of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, “Superhuman Law,” which establishes the stakes for the rest of the series and also happens to feature a prominent character from The Incredible Hulk.

Next week: Our main topic will be Sensational She-Hulk by John Byrne Vol. 1! Buy it on Amazon here.

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She-Hulk: Attorney At Law S1E01 - A Normal Amount of Rage

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT

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Welcome to a new era of Decoding TV! We appreciate that you’re still here and giving us a try as we cover a new show: She-Hulk: Attorney At Law on Disney+.

Our goal will be to have at least one topic at the top of each episode that might be interesting even to those of you who aren’t watching She-Hulk along with us. In this episode, David and Siddhant discuss the history of MCU TV shows: How have they been, quality-wise, and what is their function in the MCUniverse?

Then, starting at 26:00, the two dive into the season premiere of She-Hulk: Attorney At Law.

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Bonus Ep. - Better Call Saul Series Finale Post-Mortem - "Saul Gone"

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 13:40:25 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and his wife (@joyonapping on Twitter) discuss the series finale of Better Call Saul, "Saul Gone."

Support this podcast at http://www.decodingtv.com!

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Decoding Westworld S4E8 - Que Será, Será

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 12:20:26 GMT

David and Siddhant discuss season 4 episode 8 of Westworld, "Que Será, Será"

Decoding Westworld is becoming Decoding TV! It'll be on the same podcast feed, so no need to re-subscribe.

Support this podcast at DecodingTV.com and get bonus episodes, ad-free episodes for Decoding TV and A Cast of Kings. We'll be back next week with a recap of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law!

Shownotes:

Follow Decoding TV on Twitter
Follow Decoding TV on YouTube
Read Siddhant's interview with Jeffrey Wright
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E7 - Metanoia

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 13:03:46 GMT

A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT THIS WEEK: Decoding Westworld will soon become Decoding TV! Decoding TV will stay on this same podcast feed so no need to re-subscribe, but our name will change soon, as will what we're covering.

Also: In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 7 of Westworld, "Metanoia."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Follow Decoding TV on Twitter
Follow Decoding TV on YouTube
Read Siddhant's review of I Love My Dad
Watch David's breakdown of the Warner Bros Discovery situation
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E6 - Fidelity

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 13:58:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 6 of Westworld, "Fidelity."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Read Siddhant's review of Shin Ultraman
Subscribe to A Cast of Kings
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E5 - Zhuangzi

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:51:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 5 of Westworld, "Zhuangzi." You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Read Siddhant's review of Nope
Subscribe to A Cast of Kings
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E4 - Generation Loss

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 4 of Westworld, "Generation Loss."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Read Siddhant's review of The Gray Man
Subscribe to A Cast of Kings
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E3 - Années Folles

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 3 of Westworld, "Années Folles."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Thor's Journey to the Big Screen
Subscribe to the Culturally Relevant podcast
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E2 - Well Enough Alone

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 2 of Westworld, "Well Enough Alone."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Read Siddhant's profile of Zee5
Subscribe to the Culturally Relevant podcast
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld Bonus - The Greatness of Ariana DeBose, New York as a Character, Favorite NPCs

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 07:05:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, David and Siddhant reflect on the greatness of Ariana DeBose, talk about New York's depiction in Westworld, and run down their favorite NPCs. Get more of these bonus episodes at http://patreon.com/davechen

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Links:

Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld S4E1 - The Auguries

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 02:24:52 GMT

Westworld is back! In this episode of Decoding Westworld, David Chen and Siddhant Adlakha recap season 4 episode 1 of Westworld, "The Auguries."

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Read Siddhant's review of West Side Story
Listen to David's interview with Elizabeth Williamson
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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Decoding Westworld Season 3 Lookback and Season 4 Preview

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 01:37:16 GMT

David welcomes writer and critic Siddhant Adlakha to the podcast! The two reflect on the highs and lows of the series, what they thought of season 3, and speculate on what season 4 might look like.

You can always email this podcast at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Support this podcast via David Chen's Patreon page

Shownotes:

Check out Siddhant's recaps of Ms. Marvel over at Vulture
Follow Siddhant on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Filmcast

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What's Happening with Decoding Westworld

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:53:46 GMT

David and Joanna discuss the future of the Decoding Westworld podcast. This season, you can find Joanna discussing Westworld over on The Ringer's Prestige TV podcast feed.

Links:

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Decoding Westworld S3E8 - Crisis Theory

Tue, 05 May 2020 04:36:19 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three finale, "Crisis Theory."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld this season! You can keep in touch by listening/subscribing/following our other work below.

Shownotes:

Subscribe to our new podcast, Truth vs. Hollywood!
Follow Joanna on Twitter
Follow David on Twitter
Subscribe to Joanna's other podcasts: Still Watching, Little Gold Men, and The Storm
Subscribe to David's other podcasts: Culturally Relevant and The Slashfilmcast
Subscribe to David's newsletter
How to dress for the surveillance age

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Decoding Westworld S3E7 - Passed Pawn

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 04:00:10 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three, episode seven, "Passed Pawn."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Westworld Renewed for Season 4 in THR
How Bong Joon-ho Recycles Movie Moments in Insider
Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld S3E6 - Decoherence

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 03:18:47 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three, episode six, "Decoherence."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies
Joanna’s guess is "Hanaryo"

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Decoding Westworld S3E5 - Genre

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 03:30:04 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three, episode five, "Genre."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld S3E4 - The Mother of Exiles

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 03:30:27 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three, episode four, "The Mother of Exiles."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld S3E03 - The Absence of Field

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 03:30:12 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss season three, episode three, "The Absence of Field."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld S3E02 - The Winter Line

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 04:26:22 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss season three, episode two, "The Winter Line."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld S3E01 - Parce Domine

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 04:29:50 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season three premiere, "Parce Domine."

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Kim Renfro's Westworld timeline
The problem with YouTube algorithms
Watch Season 1-2 recap videos: Screencrush, Cinematica, Screen Junkies

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Decoding Westworld Season 3 Preview

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 00:35:28 GMT

David and Joanna discuss the season 3 trailers for Westworld and speculate on where this show is going after all the events of season 2.

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld! Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

Shownotes:

Support the Kickstarter for this podcast!
Watch the teaser for season 3
Watch the comic-con trailer for season 3
Watch the official final trailer for season 3
Check out Kim Renfro's breakdown of the season 3 trailer
This podcast is powered by Simplecast. Check out simplecast.com if you're thinking of launching your own podcast.

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Decoding Westworld: Season 2 Post-Mortem (GUEST: Will Wallace)

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 05:59:44 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David are joined by Kickstarter backer (and writer) Will Wallace to reflect on season 2 of the show. Follow Will on Twitter.

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld! Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E10 - The Passenger

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 04:23:11 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the season finale of the second season, "The Passenger."

Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode and Chris Evangelista's recap of the episode. Also, see the Washington Post article that features us!

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

This episode is sponsored by Marine Layer. For 15 percent off your first order, visit marinelayer.com and enter "decoding" at check-out.

This episode is also sponsored by Mink Eyes and Tenebrae by Max McBride. Find these books at your local bookstore and Amazon and at www.max2themax.com.

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Decoding Westworld S2E09 - Vanishing Point

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 04:09:47 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the ninth episode of the second season, "Vanishing Point."

Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode:

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/06/westworld-is-william-a-host-is-emily-dead-is-teddy-dead-vanishing-point-katja-herbers

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E08 - Kiksuya

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 02:02:05 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the eighth episode of the second season, "Kiksuya."

Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode:

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/06/westworld-kiksuya-what-is-the-door-ending-explained-maeve-akechetah-zahn-mclarnon

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E07 - Les Écorchés

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 15:13:28 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the seventh episode of the second season, "Les Écorchés."

Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode:

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/06/westworld-season-2-episode-7-les-escorches-callbacks-references

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E06 - Phase Space

Wed, 30 May 2018 05:01:41 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the sixth episode of the second season, "Phase Space."

Thanks to Unspooled for sponsoring this episode! Check out the Unspooled podcast here:

https://www.earwolf.com/show/unspooled/

Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode:

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/05/westworld-season-2-episode-6-phase-space-anthony-hopkins

Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E05 - Akane No Mai

Mon, 21 May 2018 06:13:33 GMT

Decoding Westworld is a weekly podcast recapping the HBO original series Westworld. In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the fifth episode of the second season, "Akane No Mai." Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of this episode: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/05/westworld-season-2-episode-5-akane-no-mai-hiroyuki-sanada-gay-love-story-hector Thanks for listening to this season of Decoding Westworld. Have your own crackpot theory? Want to leave us feedback in general? Get in touch with us at decodingwestworld(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!

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Decoding Westworld S2E04 - The Riddle of the Sphinx

Tue, 15 May 2018 06:11:29 GMT

Joanna and David discuss the fourth episode of the second season of Westworld, "The Riddle of the Sphinx." Be sure to check out Joanna's recap of the podcast: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/05/westworld-who-did-bernard-print-red-ball-season-2-episode-4-riddle-of-the-sphinx Check out Joanna's interview with Lisa Joy: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/05/westworld-season-2-episode-4-recap-lisa-joy-interview-stalker-lost-ex-machina-references You can always email us at decodingwestworld@gmail.com. Find more episodes at decodingwestworld.com.

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Decoding Westworld S2E03 - Virtù e Fortuna

Thu, 10 May 2018 03:38:08 GMT

In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the third episode of the second season, "Virtù e Fortuna." Be sure to check out Joanna Robinson's recap of this episode: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/05/westworld-season-2-episode-3-who-is-grace-virtu-e-fortuna-recap Find Mink Eyes and Tenebrae by Max McBride at your local bookstore and Amazon and at www.max2themax.com.

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Decoding Westworld S2E02 - Reunion

Wed, 02 May 2018 21:44:58 GMT

In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the second episode of the second season, "Reunion." Be sure to check out Joanna Robinson's recap of this episode: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/04/westworld-season-2-episode-2-recap-reunion-timeline

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Decoding Westworld S2E01 - Journey Into Night

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 01:57:18 GMT

In this episode, Joanna and David discuss the Season 2 premiere, "Journey Into Night." Be sure to check out Joanna Robinson's recap of this episode: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/04/westworld-season-2-episode-1-journey-into-night-recap

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Westworld Season 2 Preview (GUEST: Paul Scheer from How Did This Get Made)

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 14:07:28 GMT

David and Joanna are back for another season of Decoding Westworld! In this episode, they are joined by special guest Paul Scheer to recap their thoughts on season 1, talk about Paul's panel with the showrunners and stars of Westworld, and speculate about season 2. SUPPORT this season of the show by going to http://www.podcastkickstarter.com Be sure to check out Paul's other show, How Did This Get Made, at http://www.earwolf.com/show/how-did-this-get-made/ Find more episodes of this show at http://www.decodingwestworld.com Email us at decodingwestworld(AT)gmail(DOT)com Editing assistance for this episode was provided by Brian Davids from the Film Schlubs podcast (http://filmschlubspodcast.com/)

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Decoding Westworld S1E10 - The Bicameral Mind

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:09:51 GMT

Joanna and David recap the 10th episode of the 1st season of Westworld, "The Bicameral Mind." We have a new podcast! Check out at http://genpopshow.com, and support it at http://patreon.com/genpopshow Check out Joanna's recap of the episode here: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/12/westworld-finale-recap-the-bicameral-mind-is-ford-dead-elsie-stubbs-abernathy-logan Check out Jacob Hall's review of the episode here: http://www.slashfilm.com/westworld-season-finale-spoiler-review/ Check out James Poniewozik's article about Westworld here: http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/14/arts/television/westworld-a-show-thats-amazing-but-not-necessarily-good.html?_r=1

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Decoding Westworld S1E09 - The Well-Tempered Clavier

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 07:11:40 GMT

Joanna and David recap the 9th episode of the 1st season of Westworld, "The Well-Tempered Clavier." Learn more about why William is a terrible person: https://www.reddit.com/r/westworld/comments/5fd5ei/william_is_a_massive_piece_of_shit/?st=IW2MWNWW&sh=036cbf63

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Decoding Westworld S1E08 - Trace Decay (GUEST: Writer Charles Yu)

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 07:48:56 GMT

Joanna and David recap the eighth episode of the first season of Westworld, "Trace Decay." Also: episode co-writer Charles Yu joins us to discuss his thoughts on AI, breaking the story for this episode, and the state of Westworld fandom on the internet. Be sure to check out Joanna Robinson's recap of the episode. http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/11/westworld-season-1-episode-8-trace-decay-who-is-wyatt Also check out Jacob Hall's recap at slashfilm.com. http://www.slashfilm.com/westworld-episode-8-spoiler-review/

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Decoding Westworld S1E07 - Trompe L'oeil

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 05:14:25 GMT

Joanna and David recap the seventh episode of the first season of Westworld, "Trompe L'oeil." Read Joanna's recap of the episode here: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/11/westworld-recap-bernard-robot-kills-theresa-episode-7-tromp-loeil Read the recap from Slashfilm.com here: http://www.slashfilm.com/westworld-episode-7-spoiler-review/

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Decoding Westworld S1E06 - The Adversary

Tue, 08 Nov 2016 18:37:24 GMT

Joanna and David recap the sixth episode of the first season of Westworld, "The Adversary." Check out David's video essay about the multiple time period theory: https://youtu.be/JPkkltGOdlU Read Joanna's breakdown of the biggest mysteries behind Westworld: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/11/westworld-theories-multiple-timelines-who-is-the-man-in-black-who-is-arnold-who-is-wyatt See Joanna's recap of this week's episode: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/11/westworld-recap-season-1-episode-6-the-adversary-who-is-arnold-what-is-the-maze

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Decoding Westworld S1E05 - Contrapasso

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 17:38:06 GMT

David and Joanna recap the fifth episode of the first season of Westworld, "Contrapasso." Read Joanna's new theory about the two timelines here: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/10/westworld-season-1-episode-5-recap-contrapasso-timeline-theory-lawrence-bernard-is-arnold-clone-robot Check out Matt Singer's recap of the episode here: http://screencrush.com/westworld-s1e5-recap-contrapasso/ Check out Alan Sepinwall's thoughts on the dangers of twist-based storytelling: http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/review-how-westworld-may-be-acting-too-clever-for-its-own-good Read Wesley Morris's take on "The Last Taboo" http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/10/30/magazine/black-male-sexuality-last-taboo.html?_r=0

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Bonus Ep. - Vincenzo Natali, Director of "Dissonance Theory"

Sat, 29 Oct 2016 23:50:28 GMT

David Chen chats with Vincenzo Natali, director of the "Dissonance Theory" episode of Westworld. Follow Vincenzo on Twitter at http://twitter.com/vincenzo_natali

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Decoding Westworld S1E04 - Dissonance Theory

Tue, 25 Oct 2016 06:50:54 GMT

Joanna and David recap the fourthy episode of Westworld's first season, "Dissonance Theory." Read up on the Man in Black's approach to gaming here: http://www.vulture.com/2016/10/westworld-man-in-black-is-a-classic-bad-gamer.html?utm_content=bufferd24b9&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

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Decoding Westworld S1E03 - The Stray

Tue, 18 Oct 2016 07:40:09 GMT

Joanna and David recap the third episode of Westworld's first season, "The Stray." Read Joanna's recap of this episode here: http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/10/westworld-season-1-episode-3-recap-the-stray-bernard-android Go here to see 5 theories about Arnold: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/westworld-5-theories-arnold-938757

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Decoding Westworld S1E02 - Chestnut

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 07:24:57 GMT

In this episode, David and Joanna review the second episode of the first season, "Chestnut."

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Decoding Westworld S1E01 - The Original

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 19:24:07 GMT

Joanna and David discuss the first episode of HBO's WESTWORLD, "The Original." Find more episodes at decodingwestworld.com and email us at decodingwestworld@gmail.com. Thanks to www.wikirascals.com for helping us with our podcast album art. Read more Westworld theories here: http://www.slashfilm.com/westworld-theories/

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