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 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 TV critic at Vulture, brings her keen insights to discuss the Netflix series Mo, co-created by standup comedian Mo Amer. They explore the show's heartfelt blend of humor and serious themes like immigration and identity through the lens of a Palestinian-American protagonist. Haddadi highlights how the series navigates family challenges, grief, and addiction while critiquing absurd bureaucracies. The conversation also touches on cultural representation, culinary controversies, and the vibrant context of Houston, enriching the narrative.

TV critic Roxana Haddaddy, from Vulture, dives into Netflix's gritty Western, American Primeval. She discusses the fierce battle for survival faced by a mother and her son caught between a violent militia and the federal government. Haddaddy examines the show's neo-Western themes, character dynamics, and the portrayal of historic tensions, all while critiquing character depth and Indigenous representation. The conversation also lightens up with a humorous pitch for a spinoff starring Shea Wiggum, blending insight with entertainment.

Quinta Brunson, creator and star of Abbott Elementary, shines alongside her talented writing team as they celebrate their Roomie Award for collaborative excellence. TV critic Roxana Haddadi expertly moderates a lively discussion. The team shares fascinating insights on the unique process of simultaneous production in television, revealing behind-the-scenes chaos from their Halloween special. They also navigate challenges like child actors' illnesses while maintaining humor, highlighting the delicate balance of storytelling and character development. Exciting plans for future crossover collaborations are teased!