Directorate S: The Americans Podcast

  The finale of Sharp Objects, “Milk,” brings Camille’s story to a close. Or does it? Our feelings about the ending of the episode are many. We discuss Adora tending to Camille, Camille’s journey, the ghost of Marian, and the truth about Amma. Other topics include: the men of Wind Gap, the town’s complicity, Richard’s […]

  The penultimate episode of Sharp Objects, “Falling,” revealed the truth behind Adora’s relationship with her girls. We discuss Camille’s journey over the course of the series, her connection with John, and her decision to confront Adora. As ever, we remain committed to Amma being the killer as Rachael breaks down her theory about the dollhouse, […]

  With two episodes left to unravel the mystery of Wind Gap, “Cherry” presents the perfect conditions for some sisterly bonding. We discuss the new and improved Camille, Alan’s lack of spine, KC’s info gathering mission, and The Vipers’ take on womanhood.   Links mentioned in this episode: Afterbuzz TV: Violet and April Brinson Guest […]

  The fifth episode of Sharp Objects, “Closer,” was practically a bottle episode and you know how much we love bottle episodes. We dig into Amma’s manipulative behavior, Adora’s abusive behavior, and Camille’s amazing ability to hold it all together. Stay tuned at the end for discussion of the season premiere of Better Call Saul. […]

  Episode four of Sharp Objects, “Ripe,” shows us how the women of Wind Gap use manipulation and information to control the people around them. We discuss gender expectations, performance, trauma, and also some lighter stuff. Adora continues to be ridiculously perfect, Amma continues to probably be the killer, and we’re not sure we can […]

  Episode three of Sharp Objects, “Fix,” got dark, and honestly it was hard to talk about. We dig into some light topics such as  female violence, manipulation, and society’s propensity for ignoring female pain. Camille has questionable reporter skills, Amma remains sinister, and once again Sydney Sweeney is gone too soon.   Links mentioned […]

  Episode two of Sharp Objects, “Dirt,” sees the people of Wind Gap reveal their true colors. We analyze the use of superstition and generational trauma. Jackie is a national treasure, the Currys are magical, and Amma is possibly the most sinister character of them all.   Links mentioned in this episode: Q with Tom […]

  We’re back and ready to dive into HBO’s newest limited series, Sharp Objects. We talk about the Southern Gothic genre and the Madonna-whore complex before diving into some character analysis. We also talk a little bit about The Handmaid’s Tale – We had FEELINGS!   Links mentioned in this episode: Find us online at www.rabbitholenetwork.com […]

  The series finale of The Americans, “START,” masterfully wrapped up a season, and series, all about family, friendship, and loyalty. Topics include: abandoning Henry, that amazing garage scene, Paige’s choice, and what happens now.   Links mentioned in this episode: Slate’s TV Club Insider Podcast for “START” Vulture: “The Americans Series Finale Is a Subdued […]

  The Penultimate episode of The Americans, “Jennings, Elizabeth,” was a adrenaline filled installment that had us on the edge of our seats and worried about absolutely everyone. We discuss that pivotal conversation between Claudia and Elizabeth, Oleg’s request, and the return of Keri Russell’s Emmy vein. Just one episode left, stay strong Amerifans!   […]

  Season six episode eight of The Americans, “The Summit,” saw Elizabeth thinking critically and going against orders. We discuss Elizabeth’s journey from loyal foot soldier to independent thinker, the euthanasia of Erica, and that final conversation with Claudia. Philip indulges in some retail therapy, Stan meets with Curtis, and we can’t believe there are […]

  Season six episode seven of The Americans, “Harvest,” was stressful and hypnotic. We discuss Stan and Philip’s BFF moment and Henry’s inability to stop talking. Erica is making Elizabeth learn, dismemberment is romantic, and Paige is definitely possibly going to die.   Links mentioned in this episode: Slate’s TV Club Insider Podcast for “Harvest” […]

  Season six episode six of The Americans, “Rififi,” had absolutely nothing to do with heists and we feel betrayed. We discuss the current status of Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship, Henry the voice of reason, and Stan’s unnecessary Thanksgiving toast. Oleg is deciphering messages, Emily’s sweet potatoes have finally arrived, and Stavos deserved better than […]

  Season six episode five of The Americans, “The Great Patriotic War,” Philip and Elizabeth finally had sex! Or was it a honeytrap? We analyze Elizabeth’s murder mission, Jim’s interaction with Kimmy, and Philip’s fight with Paige. Stan just can’t catch a break, Granny Claudia takes us to school, and Tatiana gives Oleg a piece […]

  Season six episode four of The Americans, “Mr. and Mrs. Teacup,” was a melancholy look at a marriage in trouble. We discuss the parallels between Elizabeth and Erica, the callback to “Stingers,” and the problem with blind loyalty. Philip continues to be terrible at Capitalism, Paige somehow has friends, and Stan just wants to […]

  Season six episode three of The Americans, “Urban Transport Planning,” gave us the reunion we’ve all been waiting for as Oleg and Stan come face to face. We discuss Elizabeth and Philip’s continued battle for Paige’s soul and the FBI’s decision to pull the plug on Mr. and Mrs. Teacup. Philip is not great […]

  Season six episode two of The Americans, “Tchaikovsky,” was all about marriage and parenting. We discuss the state of Philip and Elizabeth’s marriage, Philip and Henry, and Paige’s especially inadequate espionage. Erica shouts at Elizabeth, Philip shouts at Stavos, and Stan is just not so good at marriage counseling.   Links mentioned in this […]

  The final season premiere of The Americans, “Dead Hand,” aired this last week and so much happened! The theme of family permeates this episode as Philip lives his best capitalist life, Elizabeth sleeps on the job, and Oleg finds himself back in America. We discuss the state of Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship, Paige the […]

  We’re back and excited for the premiere of the final season of The Americans! Join us for this super short discussion of the trailers for the new season. If you have been avoiding the trailers, please do not listen to this episode! We’ll be back next Saturday with our discussion of the Season 6 […]

  Season 7 episode 2 of Game of Thrones, “Stormborn,” delves in to themes of loyalty and perspective while also finding time for a naval battle. We discuss Arya’s reunions, the differing narratives presented by the three monarchs, bad television writing, and we beg the writers to please STOP RUINING FOOD! Should Jon be nicer […]

  In the Season 7 premiere, “Dragonstone,” Game of Thrones focuses on alliances and family while reminding us that life sucks for the common folk. We analyze the growing parallels between Cersei and Sansa, Jon’s method of governance, and Sandor’s continued evolution. Jamie has the best faces, Euron gets a makeover, Daenerys finally arrives in […]

  The Podcast that was Promised has arrived! This week we discuss what we’re hoping, and not hoping, to see in the upcoming season of Game of Thrones before briefly analyzing the season trailers. This will be the last Game of Thrones episode uploaded to this feed, come join us over at Winter Is Here for […]

  The Season 1 finale of American Gods, “Come to Jesus,” is all about female power and we are here for it! It was also about Shadow’s journey towards belief, which we feel was less successful. We discuss the introduction of Easter, the juxtaposition of Easter and Bilquis, and the significance of compacts and favors. […]

Season 1 episode 7 of American Gods, “A Prayer for Mad Sweeney,” returns the focus of the show to stories and storytelling. We discuss the importance of telling stories, the narrative structure of the episode, and the parallels between Essie and Laura. Other topics include: Mad Sweeney’s role in Laura’s demise, Ibis and Jacquel’s satisfying […]

  Season 1 episode 6 of American Gods, “A Murder of Gods,” gave us the road trip trio we always wanted! We discuss our general ambivalence, the show’s use of minority characters, and the hubbub around the depiction of Vulcan and The Vulcanites. “The Book of Nora” was a spectacular ending for The Leftovers. We […]

  Season 5 episode 13 of The Americans, “The Soviet Division,” wrapped up this season with another look at parents and children. Elizabeth levels with Tuan, Philip attempts to break things off with Kimmy, and somehow they both still think their real children will have no problem moving to Russia. We discuss the pacing of […]

  Season 5 episode 12 of The Americans, “The World Council of Churches,” begins to pick up the pace as this season’s disparate storylines come to a head. We discuss themes of identity and naming, the significance of Elizabeth and Claudia’s conversation, and Pastor Tim’s really good advice. Paige makes a powerful decision about her life […]

  Season 5 episode 11 of The Americans, “Dyatkovo,” dropped an even bigger bombshell than last week! We break down what it means that Elizabeth is done, how this decision could play out, and our mixed feelings about the Natalie Granholm mission. Lydia Fomina drops a truth bomb on Oleg while Stan drops one on himself. […]

  Season 5 episode 10 of The Americans, “Darkroom,” delves into themes of happiness and home before dropping the biggest bombshell to date: Philip and Elizabeth get real married!! You Guys! Married! It was the sweetest, cutest, most perfect thing ever and we can’t even. Other topics include but are not limited to: Renee Watch […]

  Season 5 episode 9 of The Americans, “IHOP,” continues this season’s focus on the tedium inherent to a spy’s life. We discuss the emotional toll of being a spy, Kimmy’s reciprocal relationship with James, Oleg’s mini character arc, and Stan’s habit of projecting his beliefs and desires on to others. What is Tuan really up to? […]

  Season 5 episode 8 of The Americans, “Immersion,” continues the season long themes of domesticity and family. We discuss the varied fan reaction to this season, the strength of Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship, and whether or not Claudia can be trusted to stay out of their heads. Henry has friends, Sofia wins us over with adorableness, […]

  Season 5 episode 7 of The Americans, “The Committee on Human Rights,” overflows with themes of family and self-sacrifice. We discuss Gabriel’s parting words to Philip and Elizabeth, Stan’s new moral stance, and Paige’s decision to break-up with Matthew. Mail Robot whizzes on by, Stan seems oddly chill about his job prospects, And Oleg […]

  Season 5 episode 6 of The Americans, “Crossbreed,” continues the themes of fathers and sons, lies, and truth as Philip struggles to keep it together. We discuss Elizabeth’s emotional journey, Philip’s somehow still increasingly depressing childhood, and Oleg’s place in the larger narrative. Is Paige really still religious? Did Mischa exist solely to serve Gabriel’s […]

  Fathers and sons dominated Season 5 episode 5 of The Americans, “Lotus 1-2-3,” as Mischa is intercepted by Gabriel, Henry’s secret is revealed, and Tuan longs for a family connection. We dissect the portrayals of class structure and excess, the juxtaposition of Deirdre and Ben, and Paige’s function in the narrative. Oleg comes home […]

  Season 5 episode 4 of The Americans, “What’s The Matter With Kansas?” gives us a crash course in espionage as Philip and Elizabeth work to develop new assets while Paige gets her snoop on at Pastor Tim’s house. We discuss Philip’s bond with Alexei, the reversal in interpersonal dynamics during the honey trap missions, and the […]

  Season 5 episode 3 of The Americans, “The Midges,” continues to explore loyalty and relationships within immigrant and refugee narratives. We discuss the moral ambiguity of Randy’s death, Mischa’s not-so-excellent adventure, and the surprise reappearance of everyone’s favorite seduced-and-married secretary. Paige is not cut out for the spy life, Staderholt need to work on their […]

  Teenage angst and grown-up paranoia are just a couple of themes in Season 5 episode 2 of The Americans, “Pests.” We discuss Paige’s behavior and continued training, Tuan’s worldview, and our newfound anxiety for Pasha’s future. Would the Americans really contaminate grain supplies? Are they that evil? Would Alexei be okay with harming an innocent […]

  Rejoice, Amerifans! The hiatus is over and we’re back to discuss Season 5 episode 1 of The Americans, “Amber Waves.” Themes of loyalty and family abound as we breakdown the significance of the Jenningses’ new family and Oleg’s new job. Mischa takes a depressing bus ride, Stan “meets” someone new, Paige is the ultimate […]

  Another bonus episode for you this week as we reflect on the Season 6 finale of Game of Thrones, “The Winds of Winter.” Spoiler alert: we loved it! We breakdown that fantastic opening scene and Cersei’s power grab before travelling to Winterfell to pledge our allegiance to The King in the North. Other topics […]

  Dragons! Battle! Revenge! Gross mud! Season 6 episode 9 of Game of Thrones, “Battle of the Bastards,” was everything we wanted and more. Join us as we fangirl all over this fantastically fun episode while also discussing: the Starkiness of Jon, Ramsay’s battle tactics, Sansa’s poetic revenge, Tormund and Davos’ walk to remember, a […]

  Another season of The Americans has come and gone and boy was it satisfying. “Persona Non Grata” seemingly wrapped up loads of storylines while setting up so many new possibilities it made our heads spin. We say a sad, sad goodbye to William Crandall, refuse to bid adieu to Oleg and Arkady, and look […]

  So. Many. Emotions. Season 4 episode 12 of The Americans, “A Roy Rogers in Franconia,” masterfully set up next week’s finale episode while repeatedly ripping our hearts out. Topics this week include: emotion versus logic, family and motherhood, William’s decision to do the right thing, Oleg’s choice, The Stan and Aderholt Comedy Hour, sad […]

  Nothing is better than an awkward dinner party, amirite? Season 4 episode 11 of The Americans, “Dinner for Seven,” expertly deploys the awkward dinner party while wrapping up the devastating Patty storyline. We discuss the purpose behind Elizabeth’s visits with Pastor Tim, the surprising logic of The Plan, and our heartbreak over Don and […]

  Trust and the breaches thereof abound in Season 4 episode 10 of The Americans, “Munchkins.” We discuss Alice’s proactive protective measures, Kimmy’s decision to confide in James, and how Philip contributed to Gaad’s fate. Other topics include: Pastor Tim’s map-less adventure, teenagers, heart-breaking Young Hee, Stan’s lack of social skills, and the good ship […]

  Season 4 episode 9 of The Americans, “The Day After,” was a breath of fresh air. Fresh, melancholy air. We analyze Elizabeth’s emotional state as she embarks on phase one of The Plan, Philip and Stan’s racquetball match, and the real importance of learning to drive. Other topics include: William’s emotional appeal to Philip, […]

  Season 4 episode 8 of The Americans, “The Magic of David Copperfield V: The Statue of Liberty Disappears,”  launching us seven months into the future and straight into an 80s sitcom. We analyze the big opening sequence, parallels to “Martial Eagle,” and the explosive arguments that fill the episode. Other topics include: Elizabeth’s actual […]

  The Martha Saga continues with Season 4 episode 7 of The Americans, “Travel Agents.” Topics include the evolution of Elizabeth’s self-awareness and compassion, Philip’s increasing disdain for secrecy, and Paige’s moral development. Also: Martha’s arc from lonely secretary to forbidden romantic heroine to lonely traitor, Joan the Operator and her questionable borscht, and Gaad’s realization […]

  The Americans ratcheted up the tension with Season 4 episode 6, “The Rat.” We discuss Martha’s trip down denial, where she’s going from here, and Philip’s decision to put his work before his family. Other topics include: knowing versus thinking, awkward kitchen scenes, William’s depressing life, Sad Gaad, Oleg the Wild Card, and Paige’s […]

  We’re back to talk about Season 4 episode 5 of The Americans, “Clark’s Place.” We discuss Martha’s arc, debate whether she’ll get a different outcome than Nina, and wonder when she’ll find out there’s more to her sister-in-law, Jennifer, than meets the eye. We touch on Nina’s departure before discussing Oleg’s reaction to the news. […]

  We made it, Amerifans! With the end of another great season we take a look back at the most pivotal and horrific moments of Season 3 of The Americans and speculate on what’s to come next season. Will there be repercussions for ignoring Henry? What will Pastor Tim do? Will Martha find out about […]

  The third season of The Americans came to a close with a twist neither of us saw coming; join us as we discuss Season 3 episode 13, “March 8, 1983.” Martha lives to see another season, but we don’t see Martha, and we think that’s a good thing. We touch on the circuitous nature of […]