Streaming Inches Closer to Cable, Why the Latest 'Walking Dead' Spinoff Works, and 'The Changeling'
Sep 14, 2023
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Warner Bros. CFO talks about streaming content devaluation and its similarity to old-school cable packages. 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon' succeeds by using TV tropes. The hosts discuss the first episode of 'The Changeling' on Apple TV+. They also explore the challenges of retaining subscribers and increasing revenue in the streaming industry.
Streaming services like Max are moving closer to traditional cable packages in terms of content and pricing.
The Walking Dead spinoff succeeds by utilizing familiar TV tropes.
The Changeling offers an imaginative and distinctive viewing experience with its sprawling narrative and strong performances.
Deep dives
The Walking Dead: A New Spin-Off with Daryl Dixon
In the new spin-off of The Walking Dead, Daryl Dixon finds himself on a boat conducting experiments on zombies. The show takes a turn when the zombies in this world seem to have changed, and a militaristic faction with power in France is revealed. With a glimpse of what's to come in the season, including a trip to Paris, this show promises a new, intriguing chapter in the Walking Dead universe.
The Changeling: A Complex and Imaginative Tale
The Changeling, based on Victor LaValle's novel, brings a fantastical and mysterious story to the screen. The show jumps through time and explores folklore, flashbacks, and a contemporary story, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. While the first episode may feel overwhelming with its multiple storylines and allegorical elements, it showcases strong performances, stunning visuals, and a rich world that could be captivating for fans of the novel.
An Ambitious and Sprawling Narrative in The Changeling
The Changeling, adapted from Victor LaValle's novel, might present a challenge with its ambitious narrative. The show's first episode introduces various timelines, flashbacks, and a mix of fantastical and real elements. While it showcases high production value and strong performances, the storytelling may be overwhelming for viewers looking for a more straightforward plot. Despite this, The Changeling offers an imaginative and distinctive viewing experience for those willing to delve into its sprawling narrative.
The Walking Dead Franchise and the Daryl Dixon Show
The podcast episode discusses the immense success and longevity of The Walking Dead franchise, which has become a major source of revenue for AMC Network. It delves into the spin-off series centered around fan-favorite character Daryl Dixon. The podcast explores the decision to set the show in France, providing a different location and a fresh vibe. The main character's journey as a wandering samurai in the French countryside, guided by a mission to protect a messianic child, is highlighted as an engaging storyline. The podcast also emphasizes the show's ability to create suspense and captivate viewers with moments of silence and minimal dialogue.
Lessons in Chemistry and Lewis Pullman
The podcast briefly mentions the upcoming Apple TV+ show 'Lessons in Chemistry,' adapted from a bestselling book and starring Brie Larson. The trailer is praised for its visual quality and intriguing premise, featuring an on-the-spectrum chemist navigating a patriarchal society on her journey to become a television chef. The discussion veers into a lighthearted mention of actor Lewis Pullman, who has appeared in projects like 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'Outer Range.' The hosts express excitement for his potential as a rising star in the industry.
Chris and Andy talk about a quote from Warner Bros. CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels that streaming content "has been given away well below fair market value" and how services like Max continue to inch closer to becoming like old-school cable packages (1:00). Then they talk about the latest 'Walking Dead' spinoff, 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon,' how this show is succeeding by leaning on TV tropes (26:14), and the first episode of Apple TV+'s 'The Changeling' (52:25).
