The Two Matts The Matts’ cultural highlights of the year
Dec 23, 2025
2025 was a cultural goldmine, with highlights including the sharp satire of Apple TV's 'The Studio' and the epic storytelling of 'The Brutalist.' Matt d’Ancona raves about the intimacy of 'Blue Moon,' while both hosts celebrate the gripping narrative of 'The Traitor's Circle.' They reminisce about Liverpool's thrilling football victory and agree on their shared top moment: Oasis's electrifying reunion at Wembley. Dive into holographic concerts and the future of live music, leaving listeners eager for more next year!
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Golden Age Of Television
- Television is in a golden quarter-century of creative output according to Matt Kelly and Matt d’Ancona.
- Rich, ironic shows like The Studio thrive especially when politics feel bleak.
The Studio's Hollywood Satire
- Matt Kelly recounts The Studio as a self-mocking, Curb Your Enthusiasm-style love letter to Hollywood led by Seth Rogen and celebrity cameos.
- He praises Bryan Cranston's outrageous studio-chairman performance and the show's gallows-humour irony.
Moved By The Brutalist
- Matt d’Ancona describes The Brutalist as a three-and-a-half-hour, VistaVision epic that deeply moved him.
- He highlights Adrien Brody's role, Guy Pearce's patron, and a haunting soundtrack as standout elements.