Roxana Haddadi

In this discussion, TV critic Roxana Haddadi and NPR's Andrew Limbong delve into the latest HBO series The Penguin, featuring Colin Farrell's transformation as Oswald Cobb. They explore Gotham's dark underbelly, marked by a gripping turf war, and the impact of a crime boss's daughter, played by Cristin Milioti. The duo analyzes character complexity, power dynamics among goons, and the evolving portrayal of villains like the Penguin, mixing traditional traits with antihero elements. Their take on the series leaves listeners pondering its future.

Roxana Haddadi, a Vulture TV critic, joins to discuss the film 'Warfare,' which offers a raw, realistic portrayal of the Iraq War through the eyes of Navy SEALs. The conversation explores the tension between star power and authenticity in war films, highlighting how its young cast shifts traditional narratives. Haddadi delves into the emotional weight of memory and storytelling in the film, evaluating its impact on veterans and questioning Hollywood's representation of military experiences. The discussion urges for deeper, more nuanced portrayals of war.

Roxana Haddadi, a TV critic at Vulture, dives into the dark and stylish world of 'Nosferatu,' where Lily Rose-Depp plays a newlywed haunted by a malevolent vampire. They discuss how this film reinterprets classic horror elements, emphasizing female agency and the grotesque nature of vampirism over romantic ideals. The conversation also critiques the balance between admiration and disappointment in the film's originality compared to its 1922 predecessor, and encourages viewers to consider 'Nosferatu' as a unique pick for holiday movie marathons.

Roxana Haddadi, a Vulture TV critic, dives into the HBO series Task, featuring Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey. She discusses the show's gripping cat-and-mouse structure and grounded performances, while praising the emotional depth found in small character moments. Haddadi highlights the strong family dynamics amidst crime and grief, yet critiques the portrayal of female characters, with Maeve standing out as a well-rounded figure. The conversation also touches on Philadelphia's authenticity and the controversial ending that left some feeling unfulfilled.

Join Roxana Haddadi, a TV critic at Vulture, Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, and Jordan Cruciola, host of Feeling Seen, as they dive into the nostalgia of 'I Know What You Did Last Summer.' They explore the sequel's connection to its '90s roots and discuss how modern storytelling blends with past horror tropes. Expect debates on audience reactions and comparisons with 'Scream,' highlighting the need for richer character development in today's horror films.