We discuss The Old Man and Loot, two shows about people who have to believe that what they’re doing is righteous. 01:54 The Old Man, streaming on FX on Hulu, is an expertly directed show for all the spy thriller fans out there. 22:27 Loot, streaming on Apple TV+, tries to have its cake and eat it too in its portrayal of a clueless-but-nice billionaire. 36:08 Plus, culture notes about how Minions: The Rise of Gru became one giant Gen Z inside joke. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss The Old Man and Loot, two shows about people who have to believe that what they’re doing is righteous. 01:54 The Old Man, streaming on FX on Hulu, is an expertly directed show for all the spy thriller fans out there. 22:27 Loot, streaming on Apple TV+, tries to have its cake and eat it too in its portrayal of a clueless-but-nice billionaire. 36:08 Plus, culture notes about how Minions: The Rise of Gru became one giant Gen Z inside joke. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

The Old Man, Loot, and gentle minions

We discuss The Bear and American Girl, a TV series and a film about making the best of the family that you’ve got, for better or worse. 02:52 The Bear, streaming on Hulu, is one of those rare shows that nails the behind-the-scenes intensity and urgency of a restaurant on the verge of catastrophe. 27:11 American Girl, streaming on Netflix, is a melancholy, moving, deeply felt film for the diaspora kids. 40:18 Plus, three films about abortion. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss The Bear and American Girl, a TV series and a film about making the best of the family that you’ve got, for better or worse. 02:52 The Bear, streaming on Hulu, is one of those rare shows that nails the behind-the-scenes intensity and urgency of a restaurant on the verge of catastrophe. 27:11 American Girl, streaming on Netflix, is a melancholy, moving, deeply felt film for the diaspora kids. 40:18 Plus, three films about abortion. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

The Bear, American Girl, and abortion films

We discuss Cha Cha Real Smooth and I Love That for You, a film and a TV show about adults still trying to figure out adulthood. 04:24 Cha Cha Real Smooth, streaming on Apple TV+, is an imperfect but endearing snapshot of what it’s like to be young, selfish, and unsure of where to go next in life. 21:59 I Love That for You, streaming on Showtime, polishes a conventional plot and archetypal characters into a charming series with humor and heart. 34:39 Plus, the mysterious Barbie keeps the crowd buzzing with a Ryan Gosling-as-Ken tease. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Cha Cha Real Smooth and I Love That for You, a film and a TV show about adults still trying to figure out adulthood. 04:24 Cha Cha Real Smooth, streaming on Apple TV+, is an imperfect but endearing snapshot of what it’s like to be young, selfish, and unsure of where to go next in life. 21:59 I Love That for You, streaming on Showtime, polishes a conventional plot and archetypal characters into a charming series with humor and heart. 34:39 Plus, the mysterious Barbie keeps the crowd buzzing with a Ryan Gosling-as-Ken tease. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Cha Cha Real Smooth, I Love That for You, and Ken himself

We discuss Fire Island and The Essex Serpent, two seaside romps with old-fashioned sensibilities. 01:32 Hulu’s Fire Island may not reach new heights (or depths), but it’s perfectly sweet and funny in its take on Pride and Prejudice. 22:42 The Essex Serpent, streaming on Apple TV+, toes the line between gothic eeriness and conventional romance, to highly watchable effect. 40:22 Plus, we’re weeping over the cancellation of Made for Love. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Fire Island and The Essex Serpent, two seaside romps with old-fashioned sensibilities. 01:32 Hulu’s Fire Island may not reach new heights (or depths), but it’s perfectly sweet and funny in its take on Pride and Prejudice. 22:42 The Essex Serpent, streaming on Apple TV+, toes the line between gothic eeriness and conventional romance, to highly watchable effect. 40:22 Plus, we’re weeping over the cancellation of Made for Love. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Fire Island, The Essex Serpent, and RIP Made for Love

We discuss Barry and The Northman, a TV series and a film about the perils of vengeance. 02:47 HBO’s Barry is a darkly funny exploration of the duality of comedy and violence. 21:43 The Northman, available in theaters and VOD, is primordial, strange, and fastidiously amoral in its bloody telling of a revenge story with a twist. 43:24 Plus, raise a glass to Ray Liotta. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Barry and The Northman, a TV series and a film about the perils of vengeance. 02:47 HBO’s Barry is a darkly funny exploration of the duality of comedy and violence. 21:43 The Northman, available in theaters and VOD, is primordial, strange, and fastidiously amoral in its bloody telling of a revenge story with a twist. 43:24 Plus, raise a glass to Ray Liotta. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Barry, The Northman, and Ray Liotta

We discuss Conversations With Friends and The Staircase, two adaptations about secrets and pretense. 01:35 Hulu’s Conversations With Friends initially suffers from the difficult task of adapting its source material, but ultimately reaches satisfying heights. 20:34 The Staircase, streaming on HBO Max, builds upon a true crime and its accompanying documentary with the addition of one more layer of meta-narrative. 40:06 Plus, breaking down the Netflix crisis. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Conversations With Friends and The Staircase, two adaptations about secrets and pretense. 01:35 Hulu’s Conversations With Friends initially suffers from the difficult task of adapting its source material, but ultimately reaches satisfying heights. 20:34 The Staircase, streaming on HBO Max, builds upon a true crime and its accompanying documentary with the addition of one more layer of meta-narrative. 40:06 Plus, breaking down the Netflix crisis. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Conversations With Friends, The Staircase, and Netflix woes

We discuss Outer Range and Slow Horses, two shows about families (one blood, one not) working through their flop eras. 02:08 Outer Range, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, puts a wonderfully dissonant, bizarre-o twist on the stoic contemporary Western. 19:28 Slow Horses, streaming on Apple TV+, is a satisfyingly competent, classically British, genuinely fun spy thriller series. 32:50 Plus, an unfiltered look at what we’ve been watching under no obligations during this three-week break. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Outer Range and Slow Horses, two shows about families (one blood, one not) working through their flop eras. 02:08 Outer Range, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, puts a wonderfully dissonant, bizarre-o twist on the stoic contemporary Western. 19:28 Slow Horses, streaming on Apple TV+, is a satisfyingly competent, classically British, genuinely fun spy thriller series. 32:50 Plus, an unfiltered look at what we’ve been watching under no obligations during this three-week break. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Outer Range, Slow Horses, and grab bag/catching up

This week’s episode is a one-off special, as we are still on our brief break. We discuss two of our (respective) favorite TV shows ever: Mad Men and 30 Rock, both workplace series with complicated protagonists. 02:03 Mad Men, streaming on AMC+ and IMDb TV, is perfect television, from its incredible character work to its brilliant exploration of weighty themes. 24:57 30 Rock, streaming on Peacock, Netflix, and Hulu, remains one of the most sharply written, joke-dense, affectionately acerbic sitcoms ever on TV. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

This week’s episode is a one-off special, as we are still on our brief break. We discuss two of our (respective) favorite TV shows ever: Mad Men and 30 Rock, both workplace series with complicated protagonists. 02:03 Mad Men, streaming on AMC+ and IMDb TV, is perfect television, from its incredible character work to its brilliant exploration of weighty themes. 24:57 30 Rock, streaming on Peacock, Netflix, and Hulu, remains one of the most sharply written, joke-dense, affectionately acerbic sitcoms ever on TV. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Mad Men and 30 Rock

We discuss Pachinko and Winning Time, two different approaches to retelling history. 02:32 Pachinko, streaming on Apple TV+, is an eminently watchable drama, but much of its spirit has been lost in the translation from book to screen. 26:00 HBO's Winning Time is a self-assured, stylish delight of a show, if you can make it through the scene-setting first few episodes. 43:05 Plus, culture notes about the Barbie and Oppenheimer casts, which are real who's whos of notable names. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Pachinko and Winning Time, two different approaches to retelling history. 02:32 Pachinko, streaming on Apple TV+, is an eminently watchable drama, but much of its spirit has been lost in the translation from book to screen. 26:00 HBO's Winning Time is a self-assured, stylish delight of a show, if you can make it through the scene-setting first few episodes. 43:05 Plus, culture notes about the Barbie and Oppenheimer casts, which are real who's whos of notable names. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Pachinko, Winning Time, and stacked casts

We discuss Atlanta and the Severance season 1 finale, two displays of some of the best television playing right now. 04:03 Atlanta, streaming on FX on Hulu, is an extraordinary, self-assured chameleon of a show, and we’re so glad it’s back for its third season. 20:47 We’re doing something a little different this week and going deep on one single episode: the perfect Severance season 1 finale, streaming on Apple TV+. 40:09 Plus, culture notes about Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez getting engaged (again!). ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Atlanta and the Severance season 1 finale, two displays of some of the best television playing right now. 04:03 Atlanta, streaming on FX on Hulu, is an extraordinary, self-assured chameleon of a show, and we’re so glad it’s back for its third season. 20:47 We’re doing something a little different this week and going deep on one single episode: the perfect Severance season 1 finale, streaming on Apple TV+. 40:09 Plus, culture notes about Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez getting engaged (again!). ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Atlanta, Severance finale, and Bennifer engagement 2.0

A weekly podcast about the film, TV, and culture we're consuming and what it all means (if it means anything at all). Hosted by producer and writer Pelin Keskin-Liu and culture writer and critic Jenny G. Zhang.

Jerrod Carmichael

We discuss Life &amp; Beth _and Jerrod Carmichael’s _Rothaniel, a series and a comedy special that explore the effects of things kept hidden and left unsaid within families. 02:31 Life &amp; Beth, streaming on Hulu, is uneven and frustrating at times, but there are real flashes of emotion and thoughtfulness at its core. 19:28 Jerrod Carmichael’s comedy special Rothaniel, streaming on HBO Max, is an intimate, vulnerable, personal piece of storytelling. 34:24 Plus, culture notes about some of the roles Bruce Willis has played in our lives. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Life &amp; Beth _and Jerrod Carmichael’s _Rothaniel, a series and a comedy special that explore the effects of things kept hidden and left unsaid within families. 02:31 Life &amp; Beth, streaming on Hulu, is uneven and frustrating at times, but there are real flashes of emotion and thoughtfulness at its core. 19:28 Jerrod Carmichael’s comedy special Rothaniel, streaming on HBO Max, is an intimate, vulnerable, personal piece of storytelling. 34:24 Plus, culture notes about some of the roles Bruce Willis has played in our lives. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Life & Beth, Jerrod Carmichael: Rothaniel, and Bruce Willis

We discuss Deep Water _and _Standing Up, two works that both involve finding the humor in less-than-ideal circumstances (whether intentionally or not). 04:21 Deep Water, streaming on Hulu, is not an especially good film, but it is a good time. 23:55 Standing Up, streaming on Netflix, is a highly capable ensemble dramedy that makes fully realized characters out of what could have been basic tropes. 39:57 Plus, grab bag! We briefly touch on other things we’re watching: Fresh, Good Girls, This Way Up, Billions, Benedetta, and Bridgerton s2. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Deep Water _and _Standing Up, two works that both involve finding the humor in less-than-ideal circumstances (whether intentionally or not). 04:21 Deep Water, streaming on Hulu, is not an especially good film, but it is a good time. 23:55 Standing Up, streaming on Netflix, is a highly capable ensemble dramedy that makes fully realized characters out of what could have been basic tropes. 39:57 Plus, grab bag! We briefly touch on other things we’re watching: Fresh, Good Girls, This Way Up, Billions, Benedetta, and Bridgerton s2. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Deep Water, Standing Up, and grab bag

We discuss Turning Red and The Tourist, a film and a show about whether you can change who others say you are. 03:02 The new Pixar film Turning Red, streaming on Disney+, is a vivid, moving story for both kids and adults coming to terms with their childhood. 25:44 HBO Max series The Tourist starts off strong, but eventually falls into the predictable pitfalls of the amnesia thriller. 37:56 Plus, culture notes about the Cannes Film Festival’s partnership with TikTok. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Turning Red and The Tourist, a film and a show about whether you can change who others say you are. 03:02 The new Pixar film Turning Red, streaming on Disney+, is a vivid, moving story for both kids and adults coming to terms with their childhood. 25:44 HBO Max series The Tourist starts off strong, but eventually falls into the predictable pitfalls of the amnesia thriller. 37:56 Plus, culture notes about the Cannes Film Festival’s partnership with TikTok. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Turning Red, The Tourist, and TikTok cinema

We discuss Severance and After Yang, two futuristic works about what it means to be a person. 02:36 The sci-fi workplace psychological thriller Severance, streaming on Apple TV+, is one of the best shows on television right now. 23:33 After Yang, available on Showtime, is a contemplative film that excels at the aesthetic, but its touch is so light that it's rendered more gestural than deeply felt. 37:45 Plus, culture notes about everyone on The Power of the Dog being forced to defend it against Sam Elliott. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Severance and After Yang, two futuristic works about what it means to be a person. 02:36 The sci-fi workplace psychological thriller Severance, streaming on Apple TV+, is one of the best shows on television right now. 23:33 After Yang, available on Showtime, is a contemplative film that excels at the aesthetic, but its touch is so light that it's rendered more gestural than deeply felt. 37:45 Plus, culture notes about everyone on The Power of the Dog being forced to defend it against Sam Elliott. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Severance, After Yang, and gay cowboys

We discuss tk 04:15 Love Is Blind: Japan, streaming on Netflix, is a more thoughtful and illuminating window into dating norms and challenges than its U.S. counterpart. 23:51 Drive My Car, available on HBO Max, is a long reflection on grief, love, and art, but it ultimately falls a little flat for us. 40:40 Plus, culture notes about Zoë Kravitz and Robert Pattinson's smolder-heavy press tour. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at MUBI.com/criticismisdead. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss tk 04:15 Love Is Blind: Japan, streaming on Netflix, is a more thoughtful and illuminating window into dating norms and challenges than its U.S. counterpart. 23:51 Drive My Car, available on HBO Max, is a long reflection on grief, love, and art, but it ultimately falls a little flat for us. 40:40 Plus, culture notes about Zoë Kravitz and Robert Pattinson's smolder-heavy press tour. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at <a href="https://mubi.com/promos/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUBI.com/criticismisdead</a>. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Love Is Blind: Japan, Drive My Car, and Zoë/Rob

We discuss The Worst Person in the World and The Afterparty, a film and a series about looking back and moving forward. 01:35 The Worst Person in the World, currently playing in theaters, explores existential questions through the small dramas of everyday life. 23:41 The Afterparty, streaming on Apple TV+, is the latest star-packed entry in the "millennial whodunnit" genre. 37:28 Plus, culture grab bag! Very brief thoughts on Annihilation, Somebody, Somewhere, Inventing Anna, The Gilded Age, Single Drunk Female, and The Righteous Gemstones. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at MUBI.com/criticismisdead. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss The Worst Person in the World and The Afterparty, a film and a series about looking back and moving forward. 01:35 The Worst Person in the World, currently playing in theaters, explores existential questions through the small dramas of everyday life. 23:41 The Afterparty, streaming on Apple TV+, is the latest star-packed entry in the "millennial whodunnit" genre. 37:28 Plus, culture grab bag! Very brief thoughts on Annihilation, Somebody, Somewhere, Inventing Anna, The Gilded Age, Single Drunk Female, and The Righteous Gemstones. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at <a href="https://mubi.com/promos/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUBI.com/criticismisdead</a>. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

The Worst Person in the World, The Afterparty, and grab bag

We discuss Nightmare Alley and Flee, two films about men grappling with haunting pasts. 03:02 Nightmare Alley, available on HBO Max and Hulu, is a visually sumptuous lesson in the genre of film noir. 21:29 The animated docudrama Flee, streaming on Hulu, is a tender, bittersweet account of witnessing the terrors of humanity at a young age. 39:41 Plus, culture notes about this year's Oscar nominations, including who we want to win and who got shut out in the cold. This episode is brought to you by MUBI. Justin Chon's GOOK and Mati Diop's short film ATLANTICS are streaming on MUBI in Canada and many other countries. Get MUBI for free for 30 days: MUBI.com/criticismisdead. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Nightmare Alley and Flee, two films about men grappling with haunting pasts. 03:02 Nightmare Alley, available on HBO Max and Hulu, is a visually sumptuous lesson in the genre of film noir. 21:29 The animated docudrama Flee, streaming on Hulu, is a tender, bittersweet account of witnessing the terrors of humanity at a young age. 39:41 Plus, culture notes about this year's Oscar nominations, including who we want to win and who got shut out in the cold. This episode is brought to you by MUBI. Justin Chon's GOOK and Mati Diop's short film ATLANTICS are streaming on MUBI in Canada and many other countries. Get MUBI for free for 30 days: <a href="https://mubi.com/promos/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUBI.com/criticismisdead</a>. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Nightmare Alley, Flee, and Oscar noms

Rosamund Pike

We discuss Euphoria and As We See It, two shows about the pains of growing up. 02:53 HBO teen drama Euphoria is inarguably a huge cultural force, especially among younger generations — but is it any good? 21:52 As We See It, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, is one of the few genuinely terrific shows about people with autism and the loved ones in their orbit. 39:00 Plus, culture notes about Rosamund Pike's running streak of strange taste in projects. (We reference this article by Olivia Craighead.) This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Catch some of our recommendations in this episode, and try MUBI for free for 30 days at MUBI.com/criticismisdead. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Euphoria and As We See It, two shows about the pains of growing up. 02:53 HBO teen drama Euphoria is inarguably a huge cultural force, especially among younger generations — but is it any good? 21:52 As We See It, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, is one of the few genuinely terrific shows about people with autism and the loved ones in their orbit. 39:00 Plus, culture notes about Rosamund Pike's running streak of strange taste in projects. (We reference <a href="https://www.gawker.com/celebrity/someone-help-rosamund-pike" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this article by Olivia Craighead</a>.) This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Catch some of our recommendations in this episode, and try MUBI for free for 30 days at <a href="https://mubi.com/promos/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUBI.com/criticismisdead</a>. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Euphoria, As We See It, and Rosamund Pike

We discuss Abbott Elementary and A Hero, a sitcom and a film about people trying to do good in a complicated world. 03:42 Abbott Elementary, streaming on Hulu, is a solid new workplace sitcom to add to your weekly rotation. 18:00 A Hero, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, is a profound film about morality, honesty, and honor. 36:58 Plus, culture notes about Pelin’s virtual Sundance Film Festival experience. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at MUBI.com/criticismisdead. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss Abbott Elementary and A Hero, a sitcom and a film about people trying to do good in a complicated world. 03:42 Abbott Elementary, streaming on Hulu, is a solid new workplace sitcom to add to your weekly rotation. 18:00 A Hero, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, is a profound film about morality, honesty, and honor. 36:58 Plus, culture notes about Pelin’s virtual Sundance Film Festival experience. This episode is brought to you by MUBI, a curated streaming service showing exceptional films from around the globe. Try MUBI for free for 30 days at <a href="https://mubi.com/promos/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUBI.com/criticismisdead</a>. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

Abbott Elementary, A Hero, and Sundance dispatch

We discuss And Just Like That... and The Last Duel, two works about the lives of women. 04:03 HBO Max's And Just Like That... interestingly picks up the thread of cynicism that ran through Sex and the City, but it loses some of the magic of the original. 30:22 The Last Duel, streaming on HBO Max, makes good use of the Rashomon effect to depict the horrendous truth of a woman's experience at the hands of men. 39:47 Plus, culture notes about Netflix's latest price increase and how it's trying to adapt in a world flush with streaming competitors. ... Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our Substack. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to criticismisdead@gmail.com. Music: REEKAH Artwork and design: Sara Macias and Andrew Liu

We discuss And Just Like That... and The Last Duel, two works about the lives of women. 04:03 HBO Max's And Just Like That... interestingly picks up the thread of cynicism that ran through Sex and the City, but it loses some of the magic of the original. 30:22 The Last Duel, streaming on HBO Max, makes good use of the Rashomon effect to depict the horrendous truth of a woman's experience at the hands of men. 39:47 Plus, culture notes about Netflix's latest price increase and how it's trying to adapt in a world flush with streaming competitors. ... Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/criticismisdead" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/criticismisdead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. For extended show notes — including links that we reference, plus more — subscribe to our <a href="https://criticismisdead.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Substack</a>. Inquiries, complaints, and recs for what to watch can go to <a href="criticismisdead@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">criticismisdead@gmail.com</a>. Music: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/reekah1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REEKAH</a> Artwork and design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saramaciasart/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Macias</a> and <a href="https://www.a-liu.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Liu</a>

And Just Like That, The Last Duel, and Netflix's price hike

Criticism Is Dead

The Best Multi-Part Documentaries, with documentaries on Obama, Federer vs Nadal, the making of Star Wars, Netflix vs Blockbuster and more. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Multi-Part Documentaries

The best podcast episodes about true crime. For any thrill seeking podcast listeners who just can't get enough of the captivating stories of murderers and criminals. This topic has all the best episodes from many different true crime podcasts.  Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!