Slate News Culture Gabfest: Jimmy Kimmel Is Back—Sort Of— Edition
Sep 24, 2025
Nadira Goffe, a Slate writer and Philadelphia native, discusses HBO's gritty crime drama Task, exploring its connections to local culture and character performances. Forrest Wickman, Culture editor and birding enthusiast, dives into the quirky documentary Listers, celebrating its charm and unique take on extreme birdwatching. The conversation also tackles the rollercoaster of Jimmy Kimmel's show cancellation and reinstatement, examining the implications for free speech and democracy. Engaging insights abound!
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Episode notes
Character Over Crime In Task
- Task prioritizes character and family drama over intricate crime plotting, creating a bleak but absorbing mood.
- The show rewards week-by-week viewing and strong performances, especially from Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey.
Authentic Local Detail Anchors Task
- Nadira praises Task for authentic Delco accents and its focus on teens and children as perceptive characters.
- She finds the series more of a character study than a buzzy procedural, buoyed by stellar acting.
Mare Of Easttown’s Emotional DNA
- Task resembles Mare of Easttown in mood and universe but favors character writing over detective plotting.
- Scenes of family dialogue are exceptionally written, even when the crime elements feel less cohesive.
