The Prestige TV Podcast

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons, Van Lathan, and Wosny Lambre remember the late Tony Sirico by discussing his role as Paulie "Walnuts" Gualtieri in 'The Sopranos,' specifically looking back at Episode 11 of Season 3: “Pine Barrens.” Hosts: Bill Simmons, Van Lathan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna, David, and Danny break down 'Westworld' Season 4, Episode 3, "Années Folles." First, they briefly recap everything that happened in the episode (2:27) before analyzing each story line— starting with Maeve and Caleb's visit to a new park (17:28). Later, they discuss some theories about what is actually going on with Bernard's story (57:52). If you have any questions or thoughts about 'Westworld,' you can email Joanna, David, and Danny at [email protected] Hosts: Joanna Robinson, David Shoemaker, and Danny Heifetz Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles and Joanna share their reactions to the first season of the new FX show ‘The Bear.’ They begin by talking about the show’s overall production and its portrayal of the adrenaline-filled world of chef culture (3:00). Then they pivot to their favorite moments from the season and relay personal anecdotes that connected them emotionally to main characters Sydney and Carmy (26:54). Next, they dissect the performance aspects of the last two episodes, which demonstrate the series’ overall excellence (36:18). They conclude by discussing the use of music in ‘The Bear,’ the state of FX in general, and their favorite food experiences (1:07:39). Hosts: Charles Holmes and Joanna Robinson Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna, David, and Danny come back together to discuss ‘Westworld’ Season 4, Episode 2 “Well Enough Alone.” They start by recapping everything that happened in the episode (2:14), before analyzing each storyline—starting with Christina’s mysterious world (6:46). Later, they talk about some of their theories about what is going on and look ahead to next episode (1:18:09). If you have any questions or thoughts about 'Westworld,' you can email Joanna, David, and Danny at [email protected] Hosts: Joanna Robinson, David Shoemaker, and Danny Heifetz Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna, David, and Danny break down the Season 4 premiere of 'Westworld,' from the new opening title sequence to theories about how the upcoming season will play out. They start by discussing what's going on with the flies, and getting into how Caleb's story has changed since last season (6:32). Then, they talk about Christina and if she really is a new, human character or if she is still Dolores (21:12). They also discuss whether William is human or not, before getting into theory corner and discussing some major questions they have going forward (42:29). If you have any questions or thoughts about 'Westworld,' you can email Joanna, David, and Danny at [email protected] Hosts: Joanna Robinson, David Shoemaker, and Danny Heifetz Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill, Sean, and Joanna react to the first two episodes of FX’s ‘The Old Man,’ starring Jeff Bridges. The crew breaks down Bridges’s impressive performance, his Hollywood longevity, and where this show ranks among the best shows of 2022. Plus, why has FX not made this show more known to the public yet? Hosts: Bill Simmons, Sean Fennessey, Joanna Robinson Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson, David Shoemaker, and Danny Heifetz join in anticipation of the new season of HBO's 'Westworld,' recapping the good and the bad of the first three seasons, and breaking down everything you need to know before Season 4 begins. If you have any questions or thoughts about 'Westworld,' you can email Joanna, David, and Danny at [email protected] Hosts: Joanna Robinson, David Shoemaker, and Danny Heifetz Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey is joined by creator and star Bill Hader to discuss the Season 3 finale of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Sean and Bill discuss the notion of cliff-hanger endings, the honesty of going so dark in fiction, and the future of the show. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons and Joanna Robinson react to the finale of HBO’s ‘The Staircase’ and dive into their feelings on the season as a whole.Hosts: Bill Simmons and Joanna Robinson Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey is joined by ‘Barry’ creator Bill Hader to break down Season 3, Episode 7 of the show. Among other things, Sean and Bill discuss the heavier themes of protectiveness when it comes to your children, and what happens when the ‘Barry’ writing process sometimes strays from Hader’s original vision. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Wosny Lambre, and Sean Fennessey recap Episode 6 of HBO’s ‘We Own This City’, discussing the “bleak and hopeless” ending to the miniseries (:42), Jon Bernthal’s performance as Wayne Jenkins compared to iconic dirty cops in film (10:16), and the benefit of a show going against the Netflix model (27:29). Plus, what’s next for creator David Simon (43:18)? Hosts: Bill Simmons, Wosny Lambry, Sean Fennessey Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Bill Hader come together to recap one of the best episodes in the three-season run of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Hader talks about taking big swings, how much you plan before a season vs. during the writing process, and how to make themes like forgiveness and redemption seem authentic within the context of a show that deals with such dark themes. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Joanna start their analysis of the midseason finale of ‘Better Call Saul’ by comparing the storytelling methods of this show to those in ‘Breaking Bad’ and discussing Lalo's long spying sequence in the intro. They then go over every angle of Howard's tragic death scene, including Jimmy and Kim's excitement about the execution of their scheme, Howard's character development leading up to his demise, and the similarities in the way Chuck was eliminated earlier in the series (16:44). Finally, they discuss the purpose of Howard's death in regards to the overall ‘Breaking Bad’ universe and speculate on Jimmy and Kim's future heading into the end of the series (38:18). Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Ben Lindbergh Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap Episode 5 of HBO’s 'We Own This City.' They discuss their thoughts on the episode, watching the show without any deep knowledge of the subject, Treat Williams's casting, and more. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey and Bill Hader recap Season 3, Episode 5 of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Now that the season is more than halfway over, Sean and Bill discuss the arc of the third season, how an episode with so little Barry can sustain itself, shooting intense action sequences, and more. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes break down the Season 3 finale of ‘Atlanta,’ “Tarrare.” They dive into the real-life story of Tarrare that inspired the episode, how this Van solo episode functioned as a season finale, and final thoughts on the season as a whole. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Joanna start the pod by talking about their expectations for this season and whether they've been met or exceeded at this point in the story. They then pivot to the dual cold opens that begin the episode and what they reveal about both Kim's moral background and Howard's home life. Next, they share their general theories on the the mysterious private investigator, the plan to secretly drug Howard, Francesca's overall importance, and Kim's decision to not take Cliff's offer to follow her original dream (24:33). They continue by talking about Kim and Jimmy's love chemistry, Lalo's big scene, and the strategy of releasing a two-part season for Emmy award consideration (1:03:33). Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Ben Lindbergh Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap episodes 3 and 4 of the HBO series 'We Own This City,' including its spiritual relationship to 'The Wire,' the exceptional performance of Jon Bernthal at the center of the show, and whether the series has a chance to slot amongst the best of the century so far. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey and Bill Hader are back to discuss season 3, episode 4 of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Sean and Bill discuss how they title episodes of the show, what goes into the decision to revisit the past while writing, the films that influenced Bill while writing the show, and more. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes return to break down "Rich Wigga, Poor Wigga," the ninth episode of Season 3 of ‘Atlanta.' They discuss what elements of the episode disappointed them, debate the usefulness of certain celebrity cameos, and examine the show's occasionally heavy-handed messaging. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Producer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Joanna start the pod by commenting on the sumptuous cinematography in this week's episode, particularly the opening scene, and ponder if this was a conscious substitution for the lack of action in this comparatively transitional chapter within the season. They then discuss the significance of spice curls in regards to Lalo's whereabouts and the reappearance of some notable characters like Erin, Francesca, and Viola.(10:08) Next, they break down the boxing match between Howard and Jimmy and ponder if the outcome was part of "the plan". (32:34) Finally, they talk about the meaning of Werner's lucite slide rule, Lalo in Germany, and take a look at the promo for next week's show in anticipation for the mid-season finale.(44:43) Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Joanna Robinson Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap the season finale of HBO’s ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.’ They discuss the fabricated plotline of the Finals MVP between Kareem and Magic, how the show relates to today’s NBA, and the possibilities of where the story can go for next season. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by creator and star Bill Hader to discuss Season 3, Episode 3 of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ How does the filmmaking link episodes beyond the way the writing does? Plus: Now that we’re three episodes through the third season, does Hader still view the show as a comedy? Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes dive into the eighth episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, “New Jazz.” They breakdown Paper Boi’s drug trip, the surprise actor cameo, and what the episode is saying about the black celebrity. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson and Van Lathan return to 'Ozark' to discuss everything that went down in the final episodes of Netflix's Emmy-winning series. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Van Lathan Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Joanna start the pod by praising the writing and production work of the season so far and ponder whether the shadow of Nacho's death will loom over the rest of the show. They then discuss some of their favorite scenes, including the reintroductions of Wendy and Spooge, the sequence surrounding Howard's therapy session, and Kim's reaction to being tailed.(11:28) They then discuss the connections that 'Better Call Saul' and 'Breaking Bad' have to Shakespeare, particularly 'Julius Caesar,' and speculate which characters could make a return in next week's episode.(28:13) Email us at [email protected]! Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Joanna Robinson Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap the second episode of HBO's 'We Own This City.' They discuss their favorite scenes, winners of the episode, and predictions for Episode 3. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Associate Producer: Isaiah Blakely Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre react to Episode 9 of the HBO docuseries about the 1980s Celtics-Lakers rivalry. The guys discuss events that the series has glossed over, the portrayal of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, impressive acting jobs, and predictions for the 10th and final episode. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, Wosny Lambre Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined again by the writer, director and star of HBO’s ‘Barry,' Bill Hader, to discuss and recap the second episode of Season 3. Bill and Sean break down some of the filmmaking that has characterized the HBO drama, and how it has developed alongside the show’s characters three seasons into the series. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes are back to break down the seventh episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, “Trini 2 De Bone.” They discuss the dynamics between nannies, their biological family, and the children they care for, as well as the intense emotional experiences that can come up at a funeral. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap the premiere episode of HBO’s 'We Own This City.' They discuss how the show feels like 'The Wire,' the absence of humor, Jon Bernthal’s performance, and more. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna and Ben begin their conversation by talking about the amazing production design of the season so far. They then speculate on what Jimmy and Kim are planning, what the reappearance of Huell and Suzanne means for the rest of the story line, and where Lalo could be located (14:42). Next, they analyze each of Nacho's sequences in the episode and what his early exit means for his dad and for the future events of the series (37:33). Finally, Joanna speaks with actor Michael Mando to break down Nacho's character and what it has meant to him and for the 'Breaking Bad' universe in general (1:12:12). Email us at [email protected]! Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Joanna Robinson Guest: Michael Mando Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre recap Episode 8 of HBO’s ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.' They discuss the factual inaccuracies of the show, Dr. J’s portrayal, HBO clapping back at Jerry West, and more. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wosny Lambre Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey is joined by Bill Hader to recap Season 3, Episode 1 of HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Sean and Bill discuss the events of the episode, as well as how Bill approached writing this season after so much time has passed since Season 2. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons and Mallory Rubin recap a thrillingly entertaining season of ‘WeCrashed’. They discuss the choices in storytelling throughout the show, the portrayals of Adam and Rebekah by Anne Hathaway and Jared Leto, and give out some awards to the characters. Hosts: Bill SImmons and Mallory Rubin Producer: Craig Horlbeck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes return to dissect the sixth episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, “White Fashion.” They discuss the history of gentrification in the fashion industry and beyond, debate whether it’s better to be successful and a sellout or real and niche, and tackle Van’s uncertain story line this season. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Producer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Joanna start by discussing the events leading up to the final season of ‘Better Call Saul’ and how the series stands up against the prequels that have been made for other franchises and ‘Breaking Bad’ itself. They then analyze some of the pivotal scenes in the first two episodes of the new season and speculate on where some of their favorite characters are headed. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Ben Lindbergh Producer: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan, Bill Simmons, and Wosny Lambre recap Episode 7 of HBO’s ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty,’ including the show’s relationship with reality, where it strays from Jeff Pearlman’s book, and the performances of Jason Segel, Wood Harris, and more. Hosts: Chris Ryan, Bill Simmons, Wosny Lambre Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin applaud the powerhouse performances from Anne Hathaway and Jared Leto and wonder what kind of message the show is trying to convey. Plus, they share what they hope lies ahead in the series finale and discuss how Apple TV+ stacks up against its competitors. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin Associate Producer: Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes dive into the fifth episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, “Cancer Attack.” They talk about what they believe the show is saying about white fans of hip-hop, the cause of Paper Boi’s creative block, and more. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Siegel interviews the cast and creatives behind 'Better Call Saul' and discovers what it took to get the iconic show made. You can read the written version of this piece at theringer.com. Host: Alan Siegel Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, Wosny Lambre, and Chris Ryan recap Episode 6 of HBO’s ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.’ They discuss what they like about the show so far, John C. Reilly’s portrayal of Dr. Jerry Buss, the authentic locker room talk, and more. Hosts: Bill Simmons, Wosny Lambre, and Chris Ryan Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna and Mal dive into the finale of the first season of Apple TV’s ‘Severance,’ sharing their instant reactions and deeper thoughts on the season as a whole.Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Malory Rubin Associate Producer: Jonathan Kermah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Charles Holmes break down the fourth episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, “The Big Payback.” They talk about the horror nature of the episode and share their thoughts on episodes that don’t involve Darius, Paper Boi, Van, and Earn. Plus, they discuss the role generational wealth plays both in society and in this episode. Hosts: Van Lathan and Charles Holmes Producer: Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson and Jodi Walker sit down to discuss the finale and full season of 'The Dropout' on Hulu. They talk about the major themes along with the real-life story of what happened to Elizabeth Holmes after the events of the show. Later, Joanna talks with executive producer Liz Hannah about what it was like bringing this story to life (47:13). Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Jodi Walker Guest Liz Hannah Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris and Joanna team up to discuss the sudden boom in shows focused on startups. They compare and contrast ‘The Dropout,’ ‘WeCrashed,’ and ‘Super Pumped’ and then rank which shows they’re enjoying the most. Plus, they discuss the performances and episodes that stood out and reflect on the impact that ‘The Social Network’ had on these shows. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Joanna Robinson Associate Producers: Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Van Lathan and Rembert Browne break down the third episode of ‘Atlanta’ Season 3, ‘The Old Man and the Tree.' They discuss the reactions to the season so far (:48) before digging into a character breakdown of Darius, Paper Boy, Van, and Earn (13:58). Plus, what is it with white girls snatching hats at parties (37:47)? Hosts: Van Lathan and Rembert Browne Producer: Donnie Beacham Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna and Nora break down the first three episodes of Hulu’s new show based on the true story of Michelle Carter, ‘The Girl From Plainville.’ They discuss Elle Fanning’s performance as Michelle, the genre of true crime, scenes that stood out, and talk through ways of shooting a text-heavy story. Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Nora Princiotti Associate Producer: Erika Cervantes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Juliet and Jodi rejoin to discuss the final four episodes of 'Bridgerton's' second season. They ask and answer the biggest questions they had at the end of the season including where they go from here and thoughts on hooking up in a gazebo. Hosts: Juliet Litman and Jodi Walker Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Juliet and Jodi talk about all the drama and romance that has unfolded through Season 2, Episode 4 of ‘Bridgerton,' including Anthony Bridgerton’s complicated relationship with the Sharma sisters, the central mystery surrounding Lady Whistledown’s identity, and much more. Hosts: Juliet Litman and Jodi Walker Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices