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In this week's episode, we're diving head-first into our latest hyper-fixations. River explores the magic systems in anime gems like "Mushoku Tensei" and "I Reincarnated as the Seventh Son," while Ama reminisces about McDonald's retro dips and her latest Bravo obsession, "Southern Charm."

But for the majority of this episode, we discuss and analyze the latest season of "The Bear" with a hypercritical lens, analyzing its take on toxic restaurant culture, character arcs, and narrative strengths. We also chat about how we'd like to see the show wrap up.

SHOW NOTES: 

1.  Re-listen to our episodes on Gigolos - start here
2. ‘The Bear’ Season 3: Tastes Great, Less Fulfilling - The New York Times
3. Not 9 to 5 thoughts on The Bear and glorifying toxic restaurant culture

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Join us on this episode of High Low Brow as we dive into our love for "Abbott Elementary," praising Quinta Brunson's masterful blend of humor and heart. We also share how we've been finding solace in cozy movie nights with 90s classics like "The Crow," delving into its dark allure and lasting impact. Switching gears, we dissect unforgettable scenes from "Striptease," comparing it to "Showgirls" and celebrating Demi Moore's iconic performance. Whether you're a fan of nostalgic 90s gems or modern TV hits, this episode is packed with insights and entertainment. Tune in now!

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In this week's episode, we're gushing over Charli XCX's brand new album "Brat" and talking about how Kendrick Lamar's incredible Pop Out — Ken & Friends show where he played 'Not Like Us' six times!

Finally, we discuss our experience at the Ben Schwartz and Friends show in Niagara Falls, which featured Colton Dunn, Drew Tarver, and Jim Woods. Then, we talk about our latest TV obsession, "Hacks," and share why it's one of the smartest comedians on-air right now. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions, laughs, and insights!

SHOW NOTES

1. Charli XCX's new album, Brat
2. Kendrick Lamar’s Pop Out Concert: A West Coast Reunion and Unforgettable Haters’ Ball - Pitchfork
3. Kocchi no Kento earmworm 
4. Hannah Einbinder: Everything Must Go comedy special on HBO Max

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During this week's episode, we'll give you an in-depth analysis of Bravo's "The Valley" and Peacock's "Love Island USA," breaking down all the drama, twists, and turns that kept us on the edge of our seats. 

Discover the impact of Jesse and Michelle’s emotional breakup, Brittany's journey into motherhood and its effect on her marriage to Jax, and Janet's controversial actions towards practically everyone. We also explore potential changes in the production team and the show's future.

Then as we switch gears to "Love Island USA," we obsess about Ariana's new hosting gig (eat your heart out, Tom Sandoval). Then Ama explains the island experience for River, while the two discuss contestant strategies, highlight returning favorites like Rob,  and talk about how hetronormative the show is.

Tune in for a podcast episode packed with pop culture insights and entertainment - you won't be disappointed.

SHOW NOTES

1. Roasted Peanut Kale Crunch Salad
2. Birdify Smart Feeders
3. Billie Lee Responds to Tom Sandoval's girlfriend Victoria w/receipts - Billy and the Kid Podcast
4. Live Interview With Tom Sandoval's Girlfriend Victoria Lee + Best Friend Kyle Chan - Up and Adam
5. Quincy Brown

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Discover the captivating depths of 'I Saw the TV Glow' in our latest episode! Join us as we delve into the surrealistic psychological drama directed by Jane Schoenbrun. With an impressive 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this film takes viewers on a mysterious journey exploring the profound bond between Maddie and Owen, centered around the TV show 'The Pink Opaque.'

As Maddie mysteriously vanishes for a decade, their silent yet powerful connection evolves, only to resurface with unsettling phenomena that challenge Owen's reality. Through intricate trans themes and gripping horror elements, 'I Saw the TV Glow' delivers a profound emotional impact that lingers long after the credits roll.

Tune in as we dissect what makes this film so compelling, delving into its themes of self-discovery and acceptance. Our wide-ranging discussions aim to enlighten and entertain, offering a comprehensive look at the importance of embracing one's true self. 

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Jump into the chaos of Vanderpump Rules Season 11 reunion with our latest episode! From Tom Sandoval's antics to Ariana's bold moves, we dissect every tear and tantrum.

Join us as we navigate the divide between Team Sandoval and Team Ariana, while exploring the evolving storylines of James Kennedy and Lisa Vanderpump. Grab your cocktail and buckle up for a wild ride through the scandalous world of VPR!

SHOW NOTES

1. YouTuber and TikToker Christina Cocca
2. Ellis makes a house remix of Nicola Coughlan 
3. Yukikosan · Midori

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This week, we delve into the 'digital guillotine' and the #Blockout2024 movement on TikTok. The movement urges users to block celebrities who stay silent on Palestine.

We ponder how to balance entertainment with staying informed. We navigate the changing realms of culture and activism, examining differing perspectives on the movement's impact.

Though we can't offer all the solutions, we shed light on how our engagement with pop culture and social media affects our mental health and the world around us.

Show Notes and References:

1. Blockout 2024: what should we realistically expect from celebrity activism? - Dazed Magazine
2. Calls to Boycott Celebrities for Silence on the War in Gaza Spark a Debate Over Online Activism - TIME
3. Canadians feel grocery inflation getting worse, 18% are boycotting Loblaw: poll - CTV News
4. High Low Brow episode on Parasocial Relationships with Sadaf Ahsan
5. High Low Brow episode on Stan Culture with Rosalyn Talusan
6. TikTok PR Crisis Analysis by Molly McPherson

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We're back for another week! Strap in for our commentary on the apocalyptic twists and turns of the Fallout TV series currently airing on Prime. Having not played the games, we're watching it fresh without any judgments. We dive into the narratives spun around the Brotherhood of Steel and the enigmatic Ghoul, masterfully portrayed by Walton Goggins. Ella Purnell's character, Lucy Maclean, has us rooting for an unlikely protagonist. The show is a reflection of our society in a very dystopian mirror and we're obsessed.

Wrapping up, we pour the tea on "Drag Race All-Stars 9." We're piecing together the impact of returning queens and pondering the franchise's future. Is it time for a break, or should the show sashay forward? Plus, why have some of the queens ended up on the Blockout2024 list?

Tune in for another fun episode. Don't forget to rate our podcast (if you liked what you heard) at https://ratethispodcast.com/highlowbrow

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In this week's podcast episode, we dive deep into the complex dynamics of friendships portrayed on Vanderpump Rules. From loyalty to betrayal and hypocrisy, we dissect the dramatic and strategic moves both on and off-screen by the cast and by fans. We also explore how cast actions and production influence made this season particularly challenging to watch.

Additionally, we delve into the ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, while also pondering why 'BBL Drizzy' by Metro Booming is the neurospicy anthem of the year. Join us as we share our thoughts and rants – grab a seat, tune in, and let's unpack it all together!

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For this week's episode, we're taking you to one of the best film festivals our city of Toronto offers: the Hot Docs Film Festival.

We share some of our hits from the festival, including Disco's Revenge (directed by Omar Majeed and Peter Mishara), Union (directed by Brett Story and Stephen Maing), Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted (directed by Isaac Gale and Ryan Olson) and Look Into My Eyes (directed by Lana Wilson). 

We also discuss a bit about the culture of Toronto, how Robin Williams was ahead of his time (RIP to a legend), and Ama briefly recaps her trip to NYC which included getting to see Jinx Monsoon on Broadway in The Little Shop of Horrors.

So, sit back, press play, and savor the rich tapestry of pop culture—one heartfelt tribute, one pulsating beat, and one provocative discussion at a time.

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