Decoding TV

Decoding TV
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Dec 19, 2025 • 1h 37min

Ep. 92 - It's Fun to Be Back in the World of 'Fallout' (S2 Premiere) Again. PLUS: Pluribus S1E08 Puts Characters on a Collision Course

In this lively discussion, the hosts dive into the Oscars’ surprising move to YouTube and what it means for broadcast TV. They explore the implications of streaming consolidation, particularly with the rise of Apple TV’s hit, Pluribus. The analysis of Pluribus Episode 8 reveals themes of loneliness and connection as characters navigate complex relationships. Shifting gears, they tackle the Fallout Season 2 premiere, showcasing its balance of humor and brutality while teasing exciting plotlines involving vault mysteries and dynamic characters.
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Dec 12, 2025 • 1h 43min

Ep. 91 - 'Pluribus' S1E07 Might Be Its Most Effective Episode Yet

In this discussion, Netflix's potential acquisition of Warner Bros sparks intriguing debates about the future of theatrical releases. Concerns arise over Paramount's ambitious plan to release 30 films a year, while David Ellison's recent texts reveal tensions within Hollywood. The hosts also dive deep into the latest episode of Pluribus, praising its thematic depth and character arcs, particularly focusing on the emotional journey of Carol and Manusos. A surprising incident involving a Pluribus ad triggers a larger conversation about mental health in media.
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11 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 1h 38min

Ep. 90 - What 'Pluribus' S1E06 Has In Common with 'Notting Hill'

Stranger Things is making waves with impressive premiere numbers, leading to debates about viewing in theaters. HBO Max faces criticism over its flawed Mad Men 4K release, raising questions about streaming quality. Apple TV's legal issues prompt discussions about their pulled shows. The hosts dive into Pluribus, exploring its pacing and character arcs, while connecting themes to Notting Hill. They weigh moral dilemmas and speculate on future plot developments, all wrapped in rich pop culture references. Expect lively theories and deep dives into this unique storytelling.
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9 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 59min

Bonus Ep: 'Pluribus' S1E05 Makes Us Wonder Where This Show Is Going

Hosts dive into the fifth episode of Pluribus, pondering its slow pacing and how Carol's character balances likability and obliviousness. They discuss Carol's emotional plea, the Hive’s complex dynamics, and the eerie visuals, including a vanishing sequence. Theories about mysterious milk ingredients spark curiosity, while cultural critiques explore online backlash against Carol. As ethical dilemmas emerge, they speculate on long-term plot directions and future seasons, inviting listener theories and feedback along the way.
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12 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 38min

Ep. 89 - 'Pluribus' S1E04 Tests the Limits of What's Possible in This World

Dive into the latest TV news, including HBO's potential rescue of Poker Face and the renewal of Tim Robinson’s The Chair Company. Explore the future of House of the Dragon and the implications of Warner Bros acquisitions. The analysis of the latest Pluribus episode reveals bold choices in character dynamics, such as Carol’s abrasive nature and her chilling truth serum experiment. Finally, listeners weigh in with wild theories about the show's twists and turns, making predictions that will keep you guessing.
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15 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 1h 41min

Ep. 88 - 'Pluribus' S1E03 Opens Up Some Dangerous Possibilities

Dive into the captivating world of TV as hosts discuss the implications of YouTube TV's blackout with Disney and react to the renewal of Alien: Earth. Excitement bubbles over a new Jimmy Olsen true-crime series from HBO Max, while concerns mount over the future of Poker Face with a potential recasting. In their analysis of Pluribus, they explore themes like hive minds and the complexities of Carol's character, questioning the boundaries of communication and memory in a gripping narrative landscape.
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12 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 50min

Ep. 87 - The 'Pluribus' Season Premiere Will Go Down in History

Dive into the chaotic launch of Vince Gilligan's Pluribus and the impact of a massive Apple TV outage. Uncover the brewing tensions between YouTube TV and Disney over channel blackouts that frustrate sports fans. Explore how Gen Z's preference for platforms like YouTube and TikTok is reshaping viewership. The premiere is dissected for its ambitious storytelling, moral dilemmas, and striking visuals, while Rhea Seehorn's standout performance steals the spotlight. It's a thrilling discussion packed with insights!
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Oct 31, 2025 • 57min

Bonus Ep: 'Slow Horses' Season 5 Was a Blast

Dave and @joyonapping are back for another season of Slow Horses! In season 5, the focus is on Roddy Ho as he becomes ensnared in a vast terrorist conspiracy.What were the biggest differences between the books and the show? Is the format of the show inherently in tension with its plotlines? Who were our MVPs this season? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!Links:Follow Joy on ThreadsEmail us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)comFollow us on Tiktok at tiktok.com/@decodingrealitySubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Oct 27, 2025 • 38min

Bonus Ep: 'It: Welcome to Derry' Takes Some Big Swings. Is It Enough?

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss the season premiere of It: Welcome to Derry. What are the ways in which this show expands on the lore of the book? What did we make of the bold decisions at the end of the first episode? If this show starts at a 12, does it have anywhere to go? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework:Slow Horses season 5 (Apple TV+)Links:Alex Zalben’s article about this show’s cheap scaresJack Hamilton’s review of ItListen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Oct 25, 2025 • 50min

Bonus Ep: 'Gen V' Season 2 Was a Mixed Bag. Can This Show Thrive in a Post-'The Boys' Future?

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick are joined by Jessie Earl to discuss the second season of Gen V. Was this show able to overcome some of the clunkiness of the earlier episodes? What did we make of the show’s biggest twists this season? And can this show really survive and thrive in a future without The Boys? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.Links:Check out Jessie Earl’s YouTube channelCheck out Patrick Klepek’s Crossplay newsletterSubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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