Culture Gabfest Jimmy Kimmel Is Back—Sort Of— Edition
Sep 24, 2025
Nadira Goffe, a Slate writer and Philadelphia native, discusses the gritty HBO drama Task, exploring its local accents and strong character focus. Forrest Wickman, Slate's culture editor and an avid birder, delves into the indie documentary Listers, praising its lo-fi aesthetics and emotional depth. The conversation heats up as they analyze the Jimmy Kimmel controversy, addressing government pressure on free speech and the implications of media access blackouts on democracy. Tune in for a thought-provoking blend of pop culture and pressing societal issues!
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Episode notes
Character Over Crime
- Task prioritizes character and family drama over tightly plotted crime mechanics to strong effect.
- The performances and regional detail make the show absorbing despite its heavy tone.
Give The Indie Doc A Chance
- Watch Listers with an open mind; its low-budget packaging hides excellent bird footage.
- Pay attention to the film's mix of crude road moments and high-def nature shots to appreciate its craft.
The Power Of Visual Surprise
- The sudden reveal of professional-quality bird footage reframes the brothers from amateurs to serious documentarians.
- That visual shift is key to the movie's emotional and cinematic power.
