Tim Goodman's TV Talk Machine

Tim reviews the return of Amazon’s “Catastrophe”, Jason talks about “The Handmaid’s Tale”, we delve briefly into the controversy surrounding Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why”, and then express trepidation about a potential writer’s strike. Then it’s time for your letters, including a story about the wisdom of Jason Bateman.

Catastrophe, The Handmaid's Tale, 13 Reasons Why, Writer's Strike

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

While preparing for “Silicon Valley” and “Catastrophe” to return, Tim reviews “American Gods.” Is it perhaps a bit too faithful to the source material, or does it highlight failings in the original novel? We also revisit the definition of our TV “white whales”—and share listeners’ choices for great shows that aren’t available on streaming and/or disc.

"American Gods"

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

It’s the time of year when favorite old series return! We talk about “Better Call Saul”, “Fargo”, and “Veep” coming back, plus Jason self-Columbos, we talk subtitled dramas, and pine for some classic TV White Whales.

Returning Faves

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

Subtitled series we talk about:

It’s the first week of baseball, and Jason & Tim are off. There’s no correlation there, but there could be. In any case, David’s back with special guest Dan Fienberg to talk about TV and machines, marsupials, roaming monkeys, terrifying mascot versions of nonexistent TV show characters, cookies, shows that just wrapped up seasons, even more streaming services, and the fine points of podcasting contracts.

Things we like this week:

Special guest!

Host David J. Loehr with Dan Fienberg.

Tim and Jason discuss the new Hulu series “Harlots”, break down (with very few spoilers) this season of “Legion” and why it appeals, and answer your letters.

"Harlots", "Legion" finale

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

This week Tim and Jason spend some time discussing the future of cord-cutting and TV bundles and what consumers should pay for in the platinum age of television. Then we listen to your comments about “Legion” and “Twin Peaks”.

Enjoying TV without going broke

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

For St. Patrick’s Day, Tim reviews an Irish series that has arrived in America. Also, we break down Tim’s lengthy article comparing the modern king of the weird “Legion” to the 1990s weirdness of “Twin Peaks,” and what it means for the revival of “Twin Peaks” on Showtime later this year. (Hint: Showtime is not very happy with Tim right now.)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

We dip into the past to talk about the 20th anniversary of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and the 15th anniversary of “The Shield.” Plus we answer a whole lot of your letters, including conversations about TV romantic comedies and TV comfort food.

Buffy's anniversary and your letters

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

“Making History”, “The Americans”, “National Treasure”, Tim reveals his long hug con, and we answer your questions.

Making History premieres, The Americans returns

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.

Tim reviews the surprisingly good (and questionably titled) “Patriot”, and finds it to be one of the best new shows on TV. Also we revisit “Legion,” so Jason can concur with Tim’s rave review. And from the UK comes “National Treasure,” a show that does not involve Nicolas Cage even a little bit.

Patriot, Legion, National Treasure, and your letters.

Hosts Tim Goodman and Jason Snell.