

The Prestige TV Podcast
The Ringer
The Prestige TV Podcast is your home for instant reactions, deep dives, creator interviews, and Hall of Fame retrospectives on the best television around. Join a rotating cast of Ringer personalities including Bill Simmons, Joanna Robinson, Rob Mahoney, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, and more as they break down the shows you're binging and the ones you're waiting to drop every week. Subscribe to The Prestige TV Podcast, check back weekly for our breakdowns, and most importantly, keep watching.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 5, 2024 • 59min
‘Shogun’ Episode 3 Recap
The hosts discuss the visual style and cinematography of 'Shogun', the complex motivations of the characters, and the power play dynamics between Mariko, her husband, and Toronaga. They also explore the symbolism of diving versus jumping as a metaphor for control and surrender in the narrative.

Feb 28, 2024 • 1h 47min
Did ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ Stick the Landing?
Andy Greenwald and Bill Simmons discuss 'The Larry Sanders Show,' praising Garry Shandling’s lead role and the show's blurred reality. They explore its tortured production, influence on workplace sitcoms, and heightened stakes in the final season. The debate revolves around if the finale 'stuck the landing'.

Feb 27, 2024 • 1h 13min
‘Shogun’ Series Premiere Recap
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney discuss the premiere of 'Shogun', diving into historical context, character dynamics, and power struggles. They highlight the intricate set design, cultural exchanges, and the importance of attentively watching the show for language nuances. The hosts also explore themes of death, cultural adaptation, and craftsmanship in the series.

Feb 21, 2024 • 1h 26min
Did ‘The Leftovers’ Stick the Landing?
Andy Greenwald and Mina Kimes dissect the emotionally charged finale of 'The Leftovers,' praising the show's ability to reinvent itself and discussing its central theme of love. They explore the exceptional performances, the unique tone of the final episode, and ultimately debate whether the series stuck the landing.

Feb 20, 2024 • 1h 13min
‘True Detective: Night Country’ Season Finale Deep Dive. Plus, Shōgun Preview.
The hosts analyze the season finale of a show, exploring symbolism and character dynamics. They delve into the significance of a cover song and the mysterious implications of spirals. Unresolved conflicts, small town mysteries, and spiritual connections are also discussed. They critique the finale, address toxic discourse, and preview the upcoming series 'Shogun' on FX.

Feb 14, 2024 • 1h 22min
Did ‘Freaks and Geeks’ Stick the Landing?
Andy Greenwald and Joanna Robinson discuss the cult following and premature ending of 'Freaks and Geeks,' as well as the potential for a reunion. They analyze the impact of the show's cancellation on careers and the significance of recognizing failures. They also explore the unintentional finale episode, the concept of cool, psychological themes, and the casting and development process.

Feb 13, 2024 • 57min
‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ Review
Charles and Jo discuss the re-imagining of 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' with Donald Glover, Phoebe Waller-Bridge's involvement, and the balance of humor in the series. They also explore open-ended endings, potential casting choices for future seasons, and share their thoughts on fashion choices and relationships. The hosts express gratitude towards their producer.

Feb 13, 2024 • 1h 12min
‘True Detective: Night Country’ Episode 5 Deep Dive
The 'True Detective: Night Country' podcast episode discusses Raymond Clark's whereabouts, potential connections to 'The Odyssey', and whether Rose is a ghost. They analyze the intense showdown between Pete and Hank and unravel the vast conspiracy at the heart of the story. The hosts also speculate on the significance of tension and suspicion between characters, explore maternal connections, and express concerns about Navarro's uncertain resolution in the finale.

Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 33min
Did ‘Girls’ Stick the Landing?
Guests Andy Greenwald and Amanda Dobbins discuss the HBO series 'Girls' and its impact on television. They analyze the cultural significance of the show, Lena Dunham's self-awareness as a creator, and the evolution of the characters throughout the seasons. They also debate whether the series finale 'stuck the landing' and explore different types of show finales. The podcast provides an insightful and entertaining discussion of the popular TV show.

Feb 6, 2024 • 1h 23min
‘True Detective: Night Country’ Episode 4 Deep Dive
In this episode of the podcast, Jo and Rob delve into the recurring themes of ‘True Detective: Night Country’, including the use of teal, the connection to Sedna the sea goddess, and the expansion of supernatural horror. They discuss the inconsistent storytelling and the impact of the shortened season. The hosts theorize about Rose Aguineau's role in Navarro's life and analyze the murder of anti-K and its connection to the ice caves. They also highlight a funny moment in a lobby scene and critique the character development and lack of airtime given to certain storylines.