

Decoding TV
Decoding TV
David Chen and Patrick Klepek discuss everything going on in the world of TV, with recaps and reviews of the most interesting shows on the air. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 15, 2026 • 52min
Bonus Ep: Why 'Heated Rivalry' Is Such a Big Deal (feat. Valentina Vee)
Valentina Vee, a filmmaker known for her viral TikTok breakdowns, joins to dissect the cultural phenomenon of Heated Rivalry. They explore why women are captivated by the series and its significance for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in Russia. Valentina reveals her background in male-male romance and praises the show's cinematography. Emotional moments, like Scott's coming out, are highlighted, alongside discussions on storytelling and the show's impact on global queer viewers. Their conversation delves into fandom creativity and what fans can look forward to in the next season.

Jan 9, 2026 • 2h 15min
Ep. 94 - 'The Pitt' Season 2 Has So Much Confidence (feat. Sarah Marrs)
In this discussion, Sarah Marrs, Deputy Editor and Film Critic at Lainey Gossip, dives into the energetic premiere of The Pitt Season 2, highlighting its character evolution and dynamic storytelling. The panel explores the show's pro-science themes and emotional stakes, analyzing character clashes between new and old methods. They also debate the moral dilemmas posed by a case involving an abandoned baby. Additionally, they touch on the latest news from Stranger Things and other TV highlights, keeping the conversation lively and insightful throughout.

10 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 40min
Ep. 93 - Unpacking Your Theories and Reactions to Pluribus Season 1 (Plus: 'Fallout' Feels Like It's Spinning Its Wheels So Far)
Dive into the fascinating reactions to season one of Pluribus, where themes of colonialism and authenticity in production shine. Explore listener theories, including the intriguing idea of Minusos disrupting the hive signal. The hosts then shift to Fallout Season 2, dissecting its character focus and pacing compared to the first season. They highlight the amusing satire of Vault 33 and tackle the complexities of the Brotherhood of Steel's storyline. Expect laughs, critiques, and a thoughtful look at what makes these shows tick!

8 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 58min
Bonus Ep: Did the 'Pluribus' Season Finale Stick the Landing?
In this bonus discussion, the hosts dive into the thrilling season finale of Pluribus. They explore the emotional highs of Carol's arc and debate the show's pacing. Listeners’ questions spark witty exchanges about the show's universe and its quirky logic. Tension mounts as they analyze character dynamics, particularly the romantic undertones between Carol and Zosia. With intriguing theories about the signal's origins and moral dilemmas, they speculate exciting possibilities for season two. Overall, excitement and some frustrations mark the finale's conclusion.

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.

6 snips
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.

12 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.

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.

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.

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.


