The Watch podcast

The Watch

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

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

 

#850

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

Andy is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss a New York Times article published last week declaring that we’re in the midst of an era of “mid TV” with shows like ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ and ‘Hijack’ (11:42). Then, they talk about the new Netflix hit ‘Baby Reindeer’ in relation to that article (39:36), before discussing episodes 2-5 of ‘Sugar’ and why it should have worked when unfortunately it doesn't (50:44). Read the New York Times piece [here] (https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/27/arts/television/mid-tv.html) . Host: Andy Greenwald Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

8 hrs Ago

1 HR 17 MINS

1:17:37

8 hrs Ago


#849

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

Chris and Andy discuss the success of ‘Shogun,’ then dig into the latest news, including Tina Fey and Steve Carell teaming up for a new Netflix comedy series, as well as the latest casting news for the new ‘Office’ spinoff (04:45). Then, they discuss Episode 2 of ‘The Sympathizer’ and whether the show's flair is both a benefit and detriment (27:47). They end with a recap of ‘Top Chef’ Episode 6 and decide if the show is delivering an undercooked product (50:13). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Eduardo Ocampo and Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

25 Apr 2024

1 HR 11 MINS

1:11:54

25 Apr 2024


#848

‘Shogun’ Finale With Creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks

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

24 Apr 2024

1 HR 16 MINS

1:16:46

24 Apr 2024


#847

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

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Apple TV will be making a ‘For All Mankind’ spinoff called ‘Star City,’ and adapting another one of Mick Herron’s novels (author of ‘Slow Horses’) for a show starring Emma Thompson (1:00). Then, they talk about an article in Harper’s that looks at the role private equity firms have played in the TV industry over the past decade (13:38), before discussing the penultimate episode of ‘Shogun’ (29:07) and episodes 4 and 5 of ‘Ripley’ (59:09). Read the Harper’s piece [here] (https://harpers.org/archive/2024/05/the-life-and-death-of-hollywood-daniel-bessner/) . Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

18 Apr 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:50

18 Apr 2024


#846

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

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

16 Apr 2024

1 HR 02 MINS

1:02:54

16 Apr 2024


#845

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

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

11 Apr 2024

1 HR 12 MINS

1:12:55

11 Apr 2024


#844

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

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

08 Apr 2024

1 HR 08 MINS

1:08:24

08 Apr 2024


#843

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

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Julia Garner was cast as a version of Silver Surfer in the upcoming ‘Fantastic Four’ movie (1:00) and give some love to the second season of ‘Tokyo Vice’ (10:46). Then they break down the seventh episode of ‘Shogun’ and talk about how the show’s long production road helped deepen the characters (17:18). Finally, they talk about Episodes 6-8 of ‘3 Body Problem’ and whether there will be a second season of the show (36:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

04 Apr 2024

1 HR 13 MINS

1:13:30

04 Apr 2024


#842

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

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

01 Apr 2024

1 HR 22 MINS

1:22:44

01 Apr 2024


#841

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

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

28 Mar 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:31

28 Mar 2024


#840

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

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

25 Mar 2024

57 MINS

57:12

25 Mar 2024


#839

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

Chris and Andy talk about the trailers for years-in-the-making ‘Star Wars’ show ‘The Acolyte’ (1:00) and the second season of ‘House of the Dragon’ (11:41). Then they talk about the first episode of ‘3 Body Problem’ and how Benioff and Weiss manage to speed through plot in a way that hurt the end of ‘Game of Thrones,’ but is beneficial here (17:03). Finally, they discuss the fifth episode of ‘Shogun’ (29:27) and the premiere of ‘Top Chef’ Season 21, which marks a new era with Kristen Kish as the host (49:36). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

21 Mar 2024

1 HR 13 MINS

1:13:12

21 Mar 2024


#838

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

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

18 Mar 2024

56 MINS

56:36

18 Mar 2024


#837

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

Chris and Andy talk about a New Yorker profile of 'Succession' writer Lucy Prebble in which she wonders whether it's better to create TV that "feels like having a bath" instead of shows with complicated plotlines that require the viewer to follow closely (1:00). Then they talk about the fourth episode of 'Shogun' (26:44) and the new Netflix show 'The Gentlemen,' which feels just like the "gourmet cheeseburger" that chief content officer Bela Bajaria once described (44:55). Read the New Yorker article [here] (https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/03/11/lucy-prebbles-dramas-of-high-anxiety) . Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

14 Mar 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:08

14 Mar 2024


#836

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

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

12 Mar 2024

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:46

12 Mar 2024


#835

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

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

08 Mar 2024

1 HR 03 MINS

1:03:19

08 Mar 2024


#834

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

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

05 Mar 2024

1 HR 12 MINS

1:12:10

05 Mar 2024


#833

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

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

29 Feb 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:45

29 Feb 2024


#832

‘Dune: Part Two’ and ‘Shogun’ Anticipation Meter, the Possible Paramount-Peacock Merger, ‘The Dynast...

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

26 Feb 2024

1 HR 09 MINS

1:09:01

26 Feb 2024


#831

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

Chris and Andy talk about the news that ‘True Detective’ has been renewed for Season 5 with Issa Lopez at the helm, and some of show creator Nic Pizzolatto’s comments about the latest season (1:00). Then, they talk about two Apple shows they have been watching, ‘Masters of the Air’ and ‘The New Look’ (23:55), and how they define the company’s take on historical fiction. They then discuss the finale of ‘Monsieur Spade’ (41:11), before talking about their experience seeing ‘Madame Web’ (56:03). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

22 Feb 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:46

22 Feb 2024


#830

The Finale of 'True Detective: Night Country'

Chris and Andy break down the finale of 'True Detective: Night Country,' and this season as a whole. They talk about how the show ultimately spent too much time in the past (1:00), whether or not the reveal of who killed Annie and the scientists landed for them (14:27), and where the 'True Detective' franchise goes from here (33:37). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

19 Feb 2024

55 MINS

55:12

19 Feb 2024


#829

‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ Episodes 7 and 8 With Cocreator and Showrunner Francesca Sloane

Chris and Andy briefly talk about the announcement of the new ‘Fantastic Four’ cast (1:00). Then they are joined by ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ cocreator and showrunner Francesca Sloane to talk about the finale of the show (15:08), working with Donald Glover to bring the story to life (34:10), and choosing Maya Erskine for the role of Jane (43:49). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Francesca Sloane Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

15 Feb 2024

1 HR 02 MINS

1:02:48

15 Feb 2024


#828

Super Bowl Trailers and Ads, and ‘True Detective: Night Country’ Episode 5

Chris and Andy talk about some of the trailers that aired during the Super Bowl, including ‘Wicked’ (1:00), ‘Deadpool 3’ (15:05), and the remake of ‘Twisters’ (20:22). Then, they talk about the penultimate episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country’ and how the emotional moments really shined in this episode while there seems to be a lack of interest in depicting that actual detective work (31:21). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

12 Feb 2024

59 MINS

59:30

12 Feb 2024


#827

Sports Goes Back to Bundles, Apple TV's Upcoming Slate, and 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' Episodes 3-6

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Fox, Warner Bros., and ESPN will launch a joint sports streaming platform this year (1:00) and what ripple effects this could have in the scripted TV world (28:48). Then they talk about Apple TV's upcoming slate of shows, including the Colin Farrell show 'Sugar' (38:46) and Episodes 3 through 6 of 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith,' a show where the lack of backstory for the main characters works to its advantage (54:27). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

09 Feb 2024

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:42

09 Feb 2024


#826

‘True Detective: Night Country’ Episode 4 and ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’

Chris and Andy break down the latest episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country’ and talk about whether or not the show’s use of multiple mystery plotlines is muddying the story (1:00). Then they talk about being pleasantly surprised with ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ after the show’s long road to production (40:08), before briefly discussing the premiere of the final season of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (59:18). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

05 Feb 2024

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:35

05 Feb 2024


#825

The Health of the IP-Verse and ‘Expats’ With Joanna Robinson

Andy is joined by Joanna Robinson to talk about the strength of various big IP franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and Harry Potter (1:00), and what upcoming projects, if any, to look out for from these properties (19:47). Then, they talk about the first two episodes of ‘Expats,’ the new Amazon show starring Nicole Kidman (38:31), and preview this Sunday’s episode of ‘True Detective: Night Country’ (52:31). Host: Andy Greenwald Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

02 Feb 2024

1 HR 09 MINS

1:09:40

02 Feb 2024


#824

Double Detective: 'True Detective: Night Country' Episode 3 and 'Monsieur Spade' Episode 3

Chris and Andy break down the latest episode of 'True Detective: Night Country.' They talk about how the lack of easter-egging in this episode worked in it's advantage (1:00) and the dynamic between Danvers and Navarro (24:07). Then they talk about the latest episode of 'Monsieur Spade' and the show's very dense plotline (35:55). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

29 Jan 2024

52 MINS

52:18

29 Jan 2024


#823

'The Curse,' ‘Fargo,’ and the Last Gasp of Prestige TV

Chris and Andy talk about some of the news from the week, including Jon Stewart returning as a part-time host of 'The Daily Show' through the election (1:00) and the Oscar nominations (18:27). Then, they talk about the finales of ‘The Curse’ (21:41) and ‘Fargo’ (1:07:02), and whether these shows are proof that prestige television can still be made, or if they are the last of a dying breed. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

26 Jan 2024

1 HR 16 MINS

1:16:44

26 Jan 2024


#822

Breaking Down 'True Detective: Night Country,' Episode 2

Chris and Andy discuss the second episode of 'True Detective: Night Country.' They talk about some of the callbacks to 'True Detective' Season 1 in this episode (1:00), the horror and paranormal elements that are becoming more prominent this season so far (17:49), and the way the environment plays a role in the plot (26:12). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

22 Jan 2024

47 MINS

47:17

22 Jan 2024


#821

What the Emmys Can Tell Us About the State of TV. Plus, ‘Monsieur Spade’ With Clive Owen.

Chris and Andy talk about the delayed 2023 Emmys that were held this week and what the sweep of awards by shows like ‘The Bear,’ ‘Beef,’ and ‘Succession’ says about the state of the TV industry (1:00). Then they break down the first episode of ‘Monsieur Spade’ (30:12) before being joined by the lead, Clive Owen, to talk about his decision to take on the iconic detective character Sam Spade (50:46). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Guest: Clive Owen Producer: Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

18 Jan 2024

1 HR 19 MINS

1:19:54

18 Jan 2024