Back on the Block

With Peter gone and Austin adopted, we get a whole bunch of new stories, including the return of Meredith, the wrath of Rikki and new problem for Amanda that she can’t just condescend to.

We talk about “Russian Doll,” whether boring plays or bad audience members are a bigger problem, and do a post-mortem on the Grammys. Was there too much Alicia Keys or was it just right?

So many stories come to a head! Does Jo survive getting shot? Is Amanda’s life in danger? Will Alison marry Terry?  Also, Syd meets Rikki’s guru!

We discuss the boring Super Bowl game and halftime show, and wonder who the best halftime acts might be. We also dig deep and wonder about the corrosive effect of media. Plus reviews of “Stan & Ollie,” “Green Book,” “True West,” “Eddie and Dave” and a tribute to the late Kristoff St. John.

Peter and Caitlin’s plan to oust Amanda continues, and Traci Lords becomes Sydney’s roommate (Really!) But it’s Jo who packs the best punch.

We review “Vice,” “Mary, Queen of Scots,” “The Titan Games” and the show “Trick or Treat.”

Jasmine Guy is in the house! And who she’s there with might surprise you. Alison is out of rehab and Jo is making dumb decisions, as usual. Plus, Peter continues to show his true colors and Kimberly and Syd are barely to be found.

We discuss "If Beale Street Could Talk," "Roma," "The Connors," and review the stage shows "Choir Boy" and "On Blueberry Hill." Plus: Karen tries to remember the name and star of a movie she saw years and years ago. Can you help us figure out what it was!?

It's Christmastime on the block, which means Amanda gets an unexpected visitor. Plus, Matt and Peter get involved with Jo's baby and Jane and Syd reach an unlikely holiday detente.

Doug turns over a new, shiny leaf. (Not literally.) Plus, discussion of "Can You Ever Forgive Me," "Dumplin’," "The Kominsky Method," "The Masked Singer," and the stage version of "To Kill a Mockingbird."