Chris Ryan

Van Lathan, a media personality and cultural critic, joins forces with NBA writer Rob Mahoney and writer Chris Ryan. They dive into the excitement surrounding the NFL draft, analyzing surprising trades and standout prospects like Shadour Sanders. The conversation shifts to the NBA playoffs, scrutinizing the Nuggets' struggles and the dynamics of playoff rivalries while showcasing the impressive performances of stars like Jalen Brunson. With humor and keen insight, they navigate the thrilling crossroads of football and basketball.

Rob Mahoney, an in-depth NBA analyst at The Ringer, joins Chris Ryan, who covers NBA culture, and Brian Windhorst, an ESPN analyst known for his insightful commentary. They discuss playoff matchups, focusing on rivalries like Rockets vs. Warriors, the potential for upsets, and the evolving dynamics of team strategies. The trio brings humor to debates on MVP candidates and defensive standout players, while Windhorst shares thoughts on international basketball and the significance of Luka and LeBron in the postseason. A must-listen for basketball fans!

Chris Ryan, a regular contributor to film discussions, joins the hosts to dive into the thrilling world of upcoming movie auctions. They passionately analyze anticipated blockbusters like 'Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning' and indie gems like 'Marty Supreme.' The trio eagerly shares their auction strategies, speculating on box office potential and the impact of streaming on film performance. With humor and camaraderie, they reflect on past auctions, making it clear that predicting cinematic success is as much an art as it is a science.

Film critic Chris Ryan joins the hosts to dissect the chaos of 'Captain America: Brave New World.' They dive into the film's numerous rewrites and production struggles, questioning Harrison Ford's role choices. The discussion emphasizes the film's disconnect within the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its confusion as a political thriller over a superhero story. They critically assess the visual effects and lackluster character arcs, expressing concern about Marvel's declining quality and the franchise's future amidst Hollywood's ever-evolving landscape.

In this discussion, Chris Ryan, a co-host of The Watch podcast and contributor at The Ringer, joins to unpack the cultural phenomenon of 'Mr. Brightside' by The Killers. They delve into the clever wordplay and deeper themes of the song, connecting it to classic poetry. The conversation also explores the evolution of rock in the early 2000s, highlighting the band's theatrical performances and their lasting impact. Finally, they examine how 'Mr. Brightside' resonates as a communal anthem of jealousy and heartache, uniting audiences everywhere.

Joined by Chris Ryan, a film expert, and Sean Fennessey, who knows both film and music, the discussion dives into the rich world of movie soundtracks. They kick off with a humorous toast while selecting their top picks in a live soundtrack draft, emphasizing nostalgic favorites from the 90s. The guests reflect on the cultural significance of iconic soundtracks, like those from 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Trainspotting,' while sharing personal memories linked to these tracks. Additionally, they promote support for musicians affected by wildfires, blending humor, nostalgia, and community spirit.

Chris Ryan, a film critic from The Ringer, joins the discussion to dive into the captivating world of horror cinema. They explore the success of 'Terrifier 3,' reflecting on its cult status and extreme gore. The pair also critique 'Smile 2,' noting its impressive filmmaking contrasted with a disjointed storyline. In an engaging segment, they each share their top five horror films of the year, highlighting promising entries like 'Longlegs' and beloved franchises. The conversation reveals the evolving landscape of horror and the enduring loyalty of its fans.

Tyler Parker, an NBA analyst from The Ringer, shares his favorite summer NBA characters and their potential impact on the league. Chris Ryan joins to discuss NBA betting strategies, while Raheem Palmer dives into the best value for futures bets. Bill's daughter, Zoe Simmons, sheds light on the surge of teens flocking to see 'Minions: The Rise of Gru', intertwining discussions of social media trends and youth culture. The conversation is a delightful mix of sports, pop culture, and the evolving dynamics of teenage life.

In this heartfelt discussion, Kevin O'Connor, J. Kyle Mann, and Chris Ryan pay tribute to their late friend Jonathan Tjarks, celebrating his profound influence on basketball writing. They delve into the nostalgia of the 2018 NBA draft, analyzing decisions and potential re-drafts with humor and insight. The group discusses evaluations of current talents like Trae Young and Luka Dončić, while reflecting on Tjarks' legacy of resilience and passion for the game. Personal anecdotes and meaningful dialogues create a touching homage to Tjarks' spirit.

Ryen Russillo, a sharp sports analyst, joins NBA expert Kevin O’Connor and writer Chris Ryan for a lively discussion. They dive into the trade drama surrounding Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, exploring potential scenarios and team strategies. The trio analyzes trade value and the impact of moves on NBA dynamics, while also breaking down top draft prospects like Chet, Jabari, and Paulo. Prepare for a mix of insightful analysis and playful banter as they navigate the unpredictable landscape of the NBA draft!