Welcome To The Party Pal: The Mind-Bending Film & Television Podcast You Didn't Know You Needed!

Welcome To The Party Pal delves into the the second season of the post-apocalyptic drama television series The Last of Us, the HBO series based on the video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog. The season is set twenty-five years into a pandemic caused by a mass fungal infection, which causes its hosts to transform into zombie-like creatures and collapses society. The season stars Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna, Isabela Merced, and Young Mazino. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell lay out the good, the bad, and the ugly components of the polarizing second season in an episode that displays how little the hosts of WTTPP know about modern day video games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the second season of Andror, the American science fiction political spy thriller drama television series created by Tony Gilroy for Disney+. It is part of the Star Wars franchise and a prequel to the film Rogue One (2016), which itself is a prequel to the original Star Wars film (1977). The series follows thief-turned-rebel spy Cassian Andor during the five years that lead to the events of the two films, exploring how he becomes radicalized against the Galactic Empire and how the wider Rebel Alliance is formed. Diego Luna reprises his role as Cassian Andor from Rogue One and serves as an executive producer. The series also stars Adria Arjona, Stellan Skarsgård, Ben Mendelsohn, Benjamin Bratt, and Alan Tudyk. In this episode co-hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan explain why they believe this series is an absolute triumph from its inception to its final, heart-wrenching moments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the final season, and in particular the concluding episode, of The Righteous Gemstones, the comedy-drama television series created by Danny McBride. The series follows a famous and dysfunctional family of televangelists. McBride also stars in the series, alongside Adam DeVine, Edi Patterson, and John Goodman. The series concluded on May 4, 2025, after airing four seasons and 36 episodes, and we here at Welcome To The Party Pal contest that McBride & Co. tremendously stuck the landing. As such, following a breakdown of how the Gemstones series was brought home with finesse, co-hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell share their picks for the shows that had the most successful series finales in television history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the long awaited-second season of the science fiction psychological thriller television series Severance, created by Dan Erickson and executive produced and primarily directed by Ben Stiller. It stars Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, Tramell Tillman, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, and Patricia Arquette. The series follows employees at the biotechnology corporation Lumon Industries that have undergone "severance" — a medical procedure that ensures they retain no memories of the outside world while at work, and have no recollection of their job once they leave. This results in two distinct personalities for each employee: the "innie," who exists solely within Lumon, and the "outie," who lives their personal life outside of work. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell take you into the depths of the MDR department on the Lumon Industries' severed floor to answer all of your pressing questions about the Apple TV+'s smash hit.Timestamps: Minimal White Lotus & "Guilded" Age of Television talk until 15:08, and the rest all Severance! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the comedy-drama film written, directed, produced, and edited by Sean Baker, Anora. It stars Mikey Madison as Anora "Ani" Mikheeva, a stripper from New York who marries the wealthy son of a Russian oligarch. The film led at the 97th Academy Awards, winning five Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Madison), Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell dissect exactly why Anora cleaned house at this year's Oscars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan examine the hype surrounding Paradise, the political thriller television series created by Dan Fogelman and starring Sterling K. Brown, Julianne Nicholson, and James Marsden. Set in a city-sized underground bunker in Colorado three years after a doomsday event, the series follows United States Secret Service agent Xavier Collins (Sterling L. Brown) as he seeks to discover the truth behind the killing of the President of the United States. As Xavier comes under suspicion for President Bradford's James Marsden) death, he searches for answers about what really happened, and is unsure of whom he can trust as his questions lead to many shocking revelations. Join in on an episode that celebrates a season of television refreshingly brimming with surprises and intrigue episode after episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan dissect The Brutalist, the 2024 epic period drama film directed and produced by Brady Corbet. It stars Adrien Brody as a Hungarian-Jewish Holocaust survivor who emigrates to the United States, where he struggles to achieve the American Dream until a wealthy client changes his life. The cast also features Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, Joe Alwyn, Raffey Cassidy, Stacy Martin, Emma Laird, Isaach de Bankolé, and Alessandro Nivola. Join in on an episode that celebrates a sweeping epic of a film brimming with brilliant production design, a captivating score, and an exceedingly talented cast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant break down American Primeval, the American Western miniseries created and written by Mark L. Smith and directed by Peter Berg. Starring Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin, the series is set in 1857 during the Utah War and examines the fight to gain control of the American West and the violent clash between the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and cultures in the Utah Territory, centering on the events surrounding the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Join in on an episode that tips its cowboy hat to captivating storytelling, a jaw dropping performance by Shea Whigham, and a surprisingly tender series conclusion, all while giving birth to what will forever be known as the "Revenant-Verse." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell share their choices for the best television shows of 2024. Join in as they take you to feudal Japan, the coast of Italy in the 1960s, the gritty streets of Gotham amid a burgeoning gang war, to Northern Ireland during The Troubles, and beyond— in a celebration of the television shows that entertained and enlivened our lives in 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Say Nothing, the historical drama limited series created by Josh Zetumer for Disney+, produced by FX Productions. Detailing four generations in Northern Ireland during The Troubles, it is an adaptation of the 2018 book by Patrick Radden Keefe. The series follows the lives of people growing up in Belfast in the 1970s, 80s and 90s during The Troubles, as well as their involvement in the Provisional Irish Republican Army, and inquiries into the Disappeared and particularly the murder of Jean McConville. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell tip their hat to a show they both agree is "perfect." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates The Penguin, the crime drama television miniseries developed by Lauren LeFranc for HBO. Based on the DC Comics character of the same name, it is a spin-off from 2022's The Batman that explores Oz Cobb's rise to power in Gotham City's criminal underworld after the events of that film. LeFranc serves as the showrunner of the series and the series stars Colin Farrell as Oz, reprising his role from The Batman, alongside Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Clancy Brown, Michael Kelly, and Mark Strong, amongst many others. In this episode hosts Michael Shields, Ryan O' Connell, and Douglas Grant converse about the terrific acting in the season (particularly Milioti!), how LeFranc and company perfectly bridged the gap between television and movies, what the series means for the future of The Batman franchise, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal features a deep dive into HBO's The Sympathizer, the historical black comedy drama miniseries based on the 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Viet Thanh Nguyen. The series was created by co-showrunners Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar, with Park directing the first three episodes. The series is based on the story of the Captain, a North Vietnam plant in the South Vietnam army. He is forced to flee to the United States with his general near the end of the Vietnam War. While living within a community of South Vietnamese refugees, he continues to secretly spy on the community and report back to the Viet Cong, struggling between his original loyalties and his new life. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant take you on a journey to Saigon, then to Los Angeles, and back again! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal once again celebrates the second season of House of The Dragon, the television series created by George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal for HBO. A prequel to Game of Thrones (2011–2019), House of the Dragon is based on parts of Martin's 2018 book Fire & Blood where the series begins about 100 years after the Seven Kingdoms are united by the Targaryen conquest, nearly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, and 172 years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen. Featuring an ensemble cast, the show portrays the events leading up to the decline of House Targaryen, a devastating war of succession known as the “Dance of the Dragons.” In this episode, hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell discuss the jump in quality from Season One to Season Two, the critiques revolving around the Season Finale, what their hopes are for the next season, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the second season of House of The Dragon, the television series created by George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal for HBO. A prequel to Game of Thrones (2011–2019), House of the Dragon is based on parts of Martin's 2018 book Fire & Blood where the series begins about 100 years after the Seven Kingdoms are united by the Targaryen conquest, nearly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, and 172 years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen. Featuring an ensemble cast, the show portrays the events leading up to the decline of House Targaryen, a devastating war of succession known as the "Dance of the Dragons." In this episode, the main themes and points of action of the riveting Dragon-laden second season are dissected thoroughly, with the help of a special guest, a person so knowledgeable in the ways of Westeros he is known in many circles as simply The GOT Guru (Geoffrey Golia). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal journeys through the multiverse in a celebration of Dark Matter, the science fiction Apple-TV series created by Blake Crouch, based on his 2016 novel of the same name. In it, a man is abducted into an alternate version of his life. Amid the mind-bending landscape of lives he could've lived, he embarks on a harrowing journey to get back to his true family and save them from a most terrifying foe: himself. Dark Matter stars Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, Alice Braga, Jimmi Simpson, Oakes Fegley, Dayo Okeniyi, and Amanda Brugel. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan explore universe after universe, and copy after copy of an embattled main character, in a examination of one of the best science fiction television shows of 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal journeys to Italy to celebrate Netflix's Ripley, the neo-noir psychological thriller television series created, written, and directed by Steven Zaillian, based on Patricia Highsmith's 1955 crime novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. Starring Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley, with Dakota Fanning as Marge Sherwood and Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf, the eight-episode limited series is the first adaptation of Highsmith's novel to a series. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell tip their hat to Robert Elswit's stunning cinematography, the showrunners decision to shoot entirely in black & white, and Andrew Scott's gripping performance, all while attempting to answer the question: Is Tom Ripley a good hang? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal breaks from its normal singular-focused episodes and dives deeply into not one, but two films. First up (6:06) is the action-comedy blockbuster Fall Guy, directed by David Leitch and written by Drew Pearce, loosely based on the 1980s TV series. The plot follows a stuntman (Ryan Gosling) working on his ex-girlfriend's (Emily Blunt) directorial debut action film, only to find himself involved in a conspiracy surrounding the film's lead actor (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The cast also features Hannah Waddingham, Teresa Palmer, Stephanie Hsu, and Winston Duke. That is followed (13:36) by an examination of the weighty themes and cunning black comedy of American Dreamer, a film directed by Paul Dektor (in his feature debut) and written by Theodore Melfi. Based on a segment from the radio show This American Life, it stars Peter Dinklage as a professor who tries to buy the estate of a lonely widow played by Shirley MacLaine. Kim Quinn, Danny Pudi, Danny Glover, and Matt Dillon also star. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan talk two very different, but extremely entertaining, films.River Jordan is the author of four novels and three works of creative nonfiction. She holds an MFA from Seattle Pacific University and her work has been featured in Publishers Weekly, Booklist, NPR's Book Talk, the Southern Literary Review, and Radix Magazine among others. When not working on her new novel, A Muddy Grace she can be found bartending at, God on the Rocks, a virtual blues and jazz bar located in the City by the Bay where she has soulful conversations great humans talking about the things they love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal pays tribute to one of the most enigmatic actors in the history of cinema, Nicolas Cage, through an interview with the author of How Coppola Became Cage, Zach Schonfeld. In this episode, a simulcast production with our sister podcast Across The Margin : The Podcast, the genius of one of the most misunderstood and gifted actors of all time is explored in-depth.Zach Schonfeld is a freelance writer, journalist, and critic based in New York. He contributes to Pitchfork, Paste Magazine, and other publications. He was formerly a senior writer for Newsweek, where he was on staff for five years. His first book, 24-Carat Black's Ghetto: Misfortune's Wealth, was published in 2020 as part of the 33 1/3 series and his latest book, entitled How Coppola Became Cage, is the focus of this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal once again celebrates Shōgun, the historical drama television miniseries created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. It is based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, which was previously adapted into a 1980 miniseries. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant examine how faithful FX's adaption was to James Clavell's books while digging into the overall appeal of the show which has blossomed into a massive hit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Shōgun, the historical drama television miniseries created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. It is based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, which was previously adapted into a 1980 miniseries. Shōgun's ensemble cast is tremendous, and the series has received praise from critics and fans alike. Shōgun follows the collision of two ambitious men from different worlds, John Blackthorne, a risk-taking English sailor who ends up shipwrecked in Japan, a land whose unfamiliar culture will ultimately redefine him; Lord Toranaga, a shrewd, powerful daimyo, at odds with his own dangerous, political rivals; and Lady Mariko, a woman with invaluable skills but dishonorable family ties, who must prove her value and allegiance. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell delve into just why Shōgun is easily one of the best shows if 2024 thus far. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal breaks down the The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, which was presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and took place on March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan exclaim over Oppenheimer's dominance, Poor Thing's impressive showing, and Da'Vine Joy Randolph's intoxication spirit while recounting the most heartwarming and hilarious moments of this year's extremely entertaining Oscar ceremony. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal, in the lead up to The 96th Academy Awards, takes stock of the cinematic offerings of 2023 and celebrates another outstanding year of movies. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan tip their hats to prestige movies such as Killers of The Flower Moon, Oppenheimer, The Holdovers, Poor Things, Past Lives, and American Fiction — while also lauding exciting popcorn-adventure films such as Guardians of The Galaxy 3, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Godzilla Minus One, and more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal delves deeply into True Detective :Night Country, the fourth season of True Detective, the anthology crime drama television series created by Nic Pizzolatto. The season is set in the fictional town of Ennis, Alaska, and follows the investigation behind the disappearance of eight men from a research station. The season stars Jodie Foster and Kali Reis as Detectives Liz Danvers and Evangeline Navarro. Night Country was created by Issa López, who serves as showrunner, writer, and director. It is the first season without the involvement of Pizzolatto; however, he is still credited as an executive producer. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell break down one of the most polarizing and most watched seasons of True Detective yet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the fifth season of Fargo, the anthology dark comedy–crime drama television series created by Noah Hawley. The enthralling season is set in Minnesota and North Dakota in the fall of 2019. It stars Juno Temple as Dorothy "Dot" Lyon, a seemingly typical Midwestern housewife living in Scandia, Minnesota, whose mysterious past comes back to haunt her after she lands in hot water with the authorities. Jon Hamm also stars as menacing North Dakota Sheriff Roy Tillman, who has been searching for Dot for many years. Other cast members include Jennifer Jason Leigh as Dot's wealthy and conservative mother-in-law Lorraine Lyon, David Rysdale as Dot's innocent, loving husband, Joe Keery as Roy's loyal son Gator, Lamorne Morris as Deputy Witt Farr, and Sam Spruell as the mysterious drifter Ole Munch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Maestro, the biographical romantic drama film that centers on the relationship between American composer Leonard Bernstein and his wife Felicia Montealegre. It was directed by Bradley Cooper, from a screenplay he wrote with Josh Singer. Maestro was produced by Cooper, Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Kristie Macosko Krieger, Fred Berner and Amy Durning. The film stars Carey Mulligan as Felicia alongside Cooper as Bernstein; Matt Bomer, Maya Hawke, and Sarah Silverman appear in supporting roles. After sharing their brief thoughts about the recent Oscar nominations, hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan dig into what works and what doesn't in Bradley Cooper's triumphant ode to Leonard Bernstein's complicated and fascinating life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal looks forward to the year ahead and previews a slew of the captivating television shows set to air in 2024. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell discuss heralded television shows returning for their latest season — those highly anticipated, beloved programs such as True Detective, Stranger Things, The Bear, and House of the Dragon. Then, they dig into a bevy of television shows premiering this year, ones such as The Veil, Fallout, The Penguin, The Sympathizer, The Regime, Masters of The Air, and Shogun. A bounty lies ahead, and this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal aptly prepares viewers for the goodness that awaits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell share their choices for the best television shows of 2023. Join in as they take you inside gourmet kitchens in Chicago, private jets taking off from New York City, acting studios in Los Angeles, evangelical churches in South Carolina, and beyond — in a celebration of the television shows that entertained and enlivened our lives in 2023! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the second season of the Disney television series Loki, based on Marvel Comics, which finds Loki working with Mobius M. Mobius, Hunter B-15, and other members of the Time Variance Authority (TVA) to navigate the multiverse in order to find Sylvie, Ravonna Renslayer, and Miss Minutes. It is set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), sharing continuity with the films of the franchise. Eric Martin served as head writer and Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead lead the directing team. Tom Hiddleston reprised his role as Loki from the film series, starring alongside Sophia Di Martino (Sylvie), Wunmi Mosaku (Hunter B-15), Owen Wilson (Mobius), and Jonathan Majors (He Who Remains / Victor Timely). In this episode hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan celebrate Tom Hiddleston's 14 year run as the infamous Marvel God Loki while tipping their horned-hat to the terrific ensemble cast in general. They remark about Natalie Holt's enthralling score and the unexpected conclusion to the series all while sharing their undying love for entertainment revolving around time travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the epic Western crime drama film, Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese, who co-wrote the screenplay with Eric Roth, based on the 2017 book of the same name by David Grann. Its plot centers on a series of Oklahoma murders in the Osage Nation during the 1920s, committed after oil was discovered on tribal land. Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone lead an ensemble cast, that also includes Jesse Plemons, John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser. It is the sixth feature film collaboration between Scorsese and DiCaprio and the tenth between Scorsese and De Niro, and the eleventh and final collaboration between Scorsese and his musical partner, Robbie Robertson, who died two months before the film's release. Join in as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan dissect one of the most captivating, and disturbing, events in American history, a story that was brought vividly to life to one of the greatest directors of all time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates The Creator, the 2023 science fiction film produced and directed by Gareth Edwards, who co-wrote the screenplay with Chris Weitz. The film stars John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe, Sturgill Simpson, Allison Janney, and Madeleine Yuna Voyles (in her film debut). Set in 2055 after a nuclear detonation in Los Angeles and a war against artificial intelligence, an ex-special forces agent is recruited to hunt down and kill the "Creator," who has developed a mysterious weapon with the power to end the war. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant discuss the film tributes that Gareth Edwards employs within The Creator while tipping their hat to the gifted director's science fiction worldbuilding prowess. They talk about the remarkable film debut of Madeleine Yuna Voyles, Allison Janney's foray into action films, the thoughtful social commentary present in the film, the best use of Radiohead's music in film and television, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, the sports drama television series created by Max Borenstein and Jim Hecht for HBO, based on the book Showtime: Magic, Kareem, Riley, and the Los Angeles Lakers Dynasty of the 1980s by Jeff Pearlman. The first season, comprising 10 episodes, chronicles the 1980s Showtime era of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team featuring notable NBA stars Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It features an ensemble cast led by John C. Reilly, Jason Clarke, Jason Segel, Gaby Hoffmann, Rob Morgan, and Adrien Brody. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Justin Wells laud the extraordinary cast, the massive (often disjointed) scope of the series, and the fascinating stylistic choices present in the series, while bemoaning how the series was unceremoniously cut short after two season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Oppenheimer, the epic biographical thriller film written and directed by Christopher Nolan. Based on the 2005 biography American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin, the film chronicles the career of American theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer. The story predominantly focuses on Oppenheimer's studies, his direction of the Manhattan Project during World War II, and his eventual fall from grace due to his 1954 security hearing. The film stars Cillian Murphy as the title character, Emily Blunt as his wife, "Kitty," Matt Damon as head of the Manhattan Project Leslie Groves, Robert Downey Jr. as U.S. Atomic Energy Commission member Lewis Strauss, and Florence Pugh as Communist Party USA member Jean Tatlock. The ensemble supporting cast includes Josh Hartnett, Casey Affleck, Rami Malek, and Kenneth Branagh. Listen is as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan marvel over the genius of Christopher Nolan, tip their hat (a hybrid of a porkpie crown with a somewhat Western brim) to Ruth De Jong's brilliant production design and Ludwig Göransson's gripping score, and show their undying love to the great state of New Mexico! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates Barbie, the fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay she wrote with Noah Baumbach. Based on the Barbie fashion dolls by Mattel, it is the first live-action Barbie film after numerous computer-animated films and specials. The film stars Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken on a journey of self-discovery following an existential crisis. It features a supporting cast that includes America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell explore the surprisingly weighty themes present in Barbie while marvelling about the stunning production design present in the film. They discuss the phenomenon the film grew into, the tremendously gifted cast, Greta Gerwig's future following this gargantuan success, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal tips its hat to the second season of The Bear, the comedy-drama series created by Christopher Storer. The first season premiered on Hulu in 2022 and starred Jeremy Allen White as a young, award-winning chef who returns to his hometown, Chicago, to manage the chaotic kitchen at his deceased brother's sandwich shop. The supporting cast includes Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Lionel Boyce, Abby Elliott, and Matty Matheson. The second season recently concluded and this episode attempts to explain why it is one of the best things you are going to see on television all year long.River Jordan, the featured co-host of this episode, is the author of four southern gothic novels and three spiritual memoirs. For fifteen years River hosted Clearstory Radio from Nashville where she interviewed award-winning best-selling authors. She is currently at work completing A Muddy Grace, a new novel set during the Great Depression in the deep south. River has returned to her saltwater roots and currently lives on the coast of North Carolina. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal dives deeply into Succession, the celebrated television series created by Jesse Armstrong that aired on HBO from June 3, 2018, to May 28, 2023, for four seasons and 39 episodes. In Succession, the head of one of the world's largest media and entertainment conglomerates decides to retire whilst each of his four grown children follows a personal agenda that doesn't always sync with those of their siblings, or of their father. The series starred Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin, Sarah Snook, and Alan Ruck. This episode hones in on the inarguably successful final season and concluding episode to the Roy family saga, cementing the black comedy/drama's reputation as one of the finest series in television history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the second season of HBO Max's Perry Mason, a compelling series which portrays the origin story of the famed criminal defense lawyer (played by Matthew Rhys). The series was created by Rolin Jones and Ron Fitzgerald for HBO and it is based on the character of the same name by Erle Stanley Gardner. The series also stars Juliet Rylance as Della Street, Chris Chalk as Paul Drake, Justin Kirk as Hamilton Burger, and Shea Whigham as Pete Strickland. Season Two finds Perry in the throes of the Los Angeles legal system during the height of the Great Depression. Months after the Dodson trial that comprised the captivating first season shook the city, Perry is readjusting to life as a civil attorney when a high-profile murder case brings him back into the fold. In this episode hosts MIchael Shields and River Jordan expound upon how the story told in HBO's Perry Mason is the unflinching story of America's soul. They explore the knotty, fascinating case at the center of the second season while contemplating what might come next for the series. Ultimately, they celebrate what is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable seasons of television to be released in 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the American mockumentary television series created by Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnitsky, and starring Ronald Gladden, Jury Duty. The series chronicles the inner workings of a jury trial through the eyes of juror Ronald Gladden, a solar contractor from San Diego, who is unaware that his jury duty summons was not official, and that everyone in the courtroom aside from him is an actor. Everything that happens, inside and outside the courtroom, is planned. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan explore the unique premise of the show and the complicated ethical concerns that arise from it. They discuss the dynamic, eclectic cast assembled for the Jury Duty, the meticulous level of production and calculation required to make the series work, and most importantly, the "hero" at the center of everything that is the reason the first season was such a tremendous success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal delves into Daisy Jones & The Six, the musical drama television miniseries developed by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, based on the 2019 novel of the same name by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Set in the Los Angeles music scene of the late 1970s, the series charts the rise and fall of the fictional titular rock band through a documentary style series of interviews with the members and footage of concerts and recording sessions, complete with vocals by series leads Riley Keough (as Daisy) and Sam Claflin (as Billy, founder of The Six). Throughout the episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell discuss the music that acted as the backbone of the season while expounding upon the success and failures of Daisy's adaptation to television. They tip their hat to the deeply affecting finale, profess their love for Daisy Jones & The Six's drummer, explore the possibility of a second season, and much, much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates The Last of Us, the post-apocalyptic television series created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann for HBO. Based on the 2013 video game developed by Naughty Dog, the series is set in 2023, twenty years into a pandemic, caused by a mass fungal infection which forces its hosts to transform into zombie-like creatures. The series follows Joel (Pedro Pascal), a smuggler tasked with escorting the teenage Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across a post-apocalyptic United States. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O'Connell dissect the nine riveting episodes of the first season of The Last of Us while discussing the employment of video games as IP for television and film. They expound upon the phenomenon the show blossomed into (the most watched show in the history of HBO Max!), the triumphant year actor Pedro Pascal is immersed in, the 'Chekhov's Lie' that concluded the season, how special obtaining a book of jokes would be in a post apocalyptic world, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal dissects the 95th Academy Awards to examine what the academy got right and what they got wrong while celebrating the magical moments that occured on stage amid Hollywood's biggest night. Listen in as hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan tip their hat to Everything Everywhere All At Once's dominant evening, bemoan Banshees of Inisherin's lack of award recognition, and ultimately, reveal their picks of their favorite films of 2022. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates The Menu, the black comedy horror film directed by Mark Mylod, written by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy, based on an original story created by Tracy, and produced by Adam McKay, Betsy Koch and Will Ferrell. It features an ensemble cast that includes Ralph Fiennes as a celebrity chef with Hong Chau playing his assistant and Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, Janet McTeer, Reed Birney, Judith Light, and John Leguizamo playing diners who attend his exclusive restaurant. In The Menu, a young couple travels to a remote island to eat at a swank restaurant where the chef has prepared a lavish menu, with some shocking surprises. This episode features a consummate breakdown of the film, wherein hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant discuss the bevy of recent films targeting the rich with satire while exploring the depth behind the multi-course meal that resides at the heart of the The Menu. They tip their chef's hat to the remarkable cast, the rich hilarity of the dark comedy found within The Menu, and much, much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal, hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan dissect the Oscar-nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin which was directed, written, and co-produced by Martin McDonagh. Set on a remote island off the west coast of Ireland, the film stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson as two lifelong friends who find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them. It reunites Farrell and Gleeson, who previously worked together on McDonagh's directorial debut, In Bruges (2008). The Banshees of Inisherin received nine nominations at the 95th Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Farrell), Best Supporting Actor (Gleeson and Keoghan), Best Supporting Actress (Condon) and Best Original Screenplay. At the 80th Golden Globe Awards, it achieved three wins from eight nominations: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actor – Musical or Comedy (Farrell), and Best Screenplay. So, join in on an episode celebrating easily one of the past year's best films. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party celebrates the return of Mike White's Emmy-winning television series White Lotus which premiered its sophomore season this past October. The second season stars Jennifer Coolidge, Aubrey Plaza, Will Sharpe, Theo James, Michael Imperioli, among others. It recently won Golden Globe Awards for Best Limited or Anthology Series and Best Supporting Actress for Coolidge. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Justin Wells attempt to explain the phenomenon of White Lotus and its far-reaching appeal. They discuss the themes of the show revolving around desire, power structures, and the transactional nature of relationships. They breakdown the complex character interconnectivity in the season, what might occur in the forthcoming third season, and of course, tip their hat to the absolutely banging theme song, and much, much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party, Avatar: The Way of Water, the epic science fiction film directed and produced by James Cameron, who co-wrote the screenplay with Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, is dissected and celebrated. It is the sequel to Avatar (2009) and the second installment in the Avatar film series. Cast members Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Stephen Lang, Joel David Moore, and Giovanni Ribisi reprise their roles from the original film, with Sigourney Weaver returning in an additional role. New cast members include Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Edie Falco, and Jemaine Clement. In the film, Na'vi Jake Sully (Worthington) and his family, under renewed human threat, seek refuge with the Metkayina clan of Pandora. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan explore the themes of The Way of Water while discussing James Cameron undying love for the sea. They consider the film's gaudy runtime, the remarkable special effects and CGI featured in the film, and so much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal looks forward to the year ahead and previews a slew of the captivating television shows set to air in 2023. First, hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell discuss heralded television shows returning for their latest season — those highly anticipated, beloved programs such as Succession, Barry, The Mandalorian, and Loki. Then, they dig into a bevy of television shows premiering this year, ones that star such renowned actors as Meryl Streep, Woody Harrelson, Natasha Lyonne, Harrison Ford, Kate Winslet, Bob Odenkirk, Jodie Foster, and Matthew Rhys (just to name a few!). A bounty lies ahead, and this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal aptly prepares viewers for the goodness that awaits.Two articles were mentioned in this episode, those are: "Which Wildly Different TV Shows Make A Surprisingly Good Pair?" by Ryan O'Connell and "Fargo's Perfect Second Season" by Michael Shields. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal pays tribute to The Fabelmans, the coming-of-age drama directed by Steven Spielberg and written and produced by Tony Kushner and Spielberg. It is a semi-autobiographical story based on Spielberg's adolescence and first years as a filmmaker, told through an original story of the fictional Sammy Fabelman, a young aspiring filmmaker who explores how the power of films can help him see the truth about his dysfunctional family and those around him. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Gabriel LaBelle as Sammy, with Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Seth Rogen, and Judd Hirsch in supporting roles. The film is dedicated to the memories of Spielberg's real-life parents Leah Adler and Arnold Spielberg, who died in 2017 and 2020, respectively. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Mitch Lucas marvel at Spielberg's latest while exploring the themes present in the The Fabelmans. They discuss how the movie speaks to the power and beauty of film as they celebrate the tremendous performances found in the film. Ultimately, this episode serves as a tribute to one of the greatest storytellers in the history of filmmaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell share their choices for the best television shows of 2022. In a year absolutely chock full of brilliant offerings, across a multitude of genres, whittling it down to just ten was no easy task, but that was thej ob. And so, join in on a celebration of 2022's bounty. Does Barry, The Bear, Better Call Saul, Rings of Power, Abbott Elementary, Severance, Andor, or Reservation Dogs make our list? Tune in to find out what entertained most this past year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal celebrates the first season of Andor, the science-fiction action-adventure television series created by Tony Gilroy for Disney+. It is the fourth live-action series in the Star Wars franchise, as well as a prequel to both the spin-off film Rogue One (2016) and the original Star Wars film (1977). The series follows thief-turned-Rebel spy Cassian Andor during the five years that lead to the events of the two films. Diego Luna reprises his role as Cassian Andor and also serves as an executive producer. The ensemble cast also includes Kyle Soller, Adria Arjona, Fiona Shaw, Stellan Skarsgård, Denise Gough, Genevieve O'Reilly, Faye Marsay, Varada Sethu, and Elizabeth Dulau, among others. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Douglas Grant discuss showrunner Tony Gilroy's bold and novel approach to storytelling in the Star Wars Universe. They talk about the tremendous cast assembled for the project, Nicholas Britell's engrossing score, a moment where a droid's anguish broke our hearts, Luke Hall's game-changing production design, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal dissects the first season of House of the Dragon, the fantasy drama television series that persists as a prequel to Game of Thrones. It is the second show in the franchise created by George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal for HBO. Both series are based on the A Song of Ice and Fire novels by Martin with Condal and Miguel Sapochnik serving as the showrunners. Based on parts of the novel Fire & Blood, the series is set about 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, 172 years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen, descendant of the eponymous royal house, and 100 years after the Seven Kingdoms is united by the Targaryen Conquest. It portrays the beginning of the end of House Targaryen, the events leading up to and covering the Targaryen civil war of succession, known as the "Dance of the Dragons." In this episode hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell expound on the most exciting moments of this first season of The House of the Dragon while celebrating some of the most nuanced and cutthroat characters that can be found on television today. They explore the challenges presented by the time-jumps that take place throughout the season, the events that occurred in the season that couldn't be found in the novel Fire & Blood, what the finale means for the series moving forward, and much, much more.Check out Ryan O' Connell's pop culture blog, Giddy Up America! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Welcome To The Party Pal hosts Michael Shields and Ryan O' Connell set forth to answer one of the most impossible questions in television: Who is the greatest HBO character of all time? Basing their conversation on an article written by Ryan O' Connell at BroBible titled, "Who Is The Greatest HBO Character of All Time? We Set Up A Massive Battle Royale To Figure Out The G.O.A.T," the two overly prepared hosts analyze all the characters who have inhabited the programs of arguably the premiere television network ever. Does the cream of the crop hail from The Wire (Omar? / Bubbles? / McNulty?), Game of Thrones (Daenerys? / Cersei?), or perhaps one of HBO's most heralded comedies (Curb Your Enthusiasm, Veep, Eastbound & Down)? Find out in an episode that offers a definitive answer to this pressing question. Beyond getting to the bottom of the best of the best, Michael and Ryan go on to tip their hat to a few notable Honorable Mentions, and then discuss some Future Stars from the rookie class (Rue from Euphoria / Kendall from Succession / etc.) that could one day be in the running for the top spot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Welcome To The Party Pal journeys to Graceland to commemorate Elvis, the 2022 biographical musical drama film directed by Baz Luhrmann, who co-wrote the screenplay with Sam Bromell, Craig Pearce, and Jeremy Doner. The film follows the life of rock and roll icon, singer, and actor Elvis Presley, told from the perspective of his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. It stars Austin Butler in the title role with Tom Hanks as Parker, while Olivia DeJonge, Helen Thomson and Richard Roxburgh co-star. Elvis has grossed $285.8 million worldwide against its $85 million budget, becoming the second-highest-grossing music biopic of all-time behind Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) and the fourth-highest-grossing Australian-produced film. Butler's performance garnered widespread acclaim, while the film's costume and production designs as well as musical sequences received positive reviews. In this episode hosts Michael Shields and River Jordan celebrate the spectacles that are Baz Luhrmann's films. They discuss Tom Hanks polarizing portrayal of Colonel Tom Parker while hailing the astounding performance of Austin Butler as Elvis Presley. They talk about what Elvis says about America's longstanding problems with racism, puritism, and homophobia, how biopics can often be predictable and repetitive, Elvis's impact on America and American music, and so much more. Join in as a lifelong Elvis fan and a fledgling admirer celebrate the "King of Rock N' Roll." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.