Needs Some Introduction - Task / Alien Earth

Severance Season 2 - 8 Minute Preview and Trailer Breakdown PLUS: Season 1 Episode 1 and 2 Recap

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
 
If you prefer to stay unspoiled on season 2, skip ahead to (15:00)
Merry Christmas from AppleTV. Apple has provides us with the first 8 minutes of Severance season 2 just about a week after the thrilling trailer arrived, last week.
Something old and something new as I also republished first conversation that Sona and I had back back when the first season came out (nearly 3 seasons ago). 
 

The Agency - Episode 5 - Despite all My Rage I Am Still Just a Rat in a 'Rat Trap' -

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
We made it to the half way mark of the season. Sona and I are both very much on board with the episode. We have many misgivings as to whether any of these agents are actually good at their jobs. Maybe that's the point, though. Most everyone is sleeping with with the most convenient (and almost certainly the worst choice) this week

Breaking Down 'The Day of the Jackal' Finale and Reviewing 'Carry On' (Netflix)

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this episode of 'Needs Some Introduction,' the hosts Darren and Victor delve into the season finale, the 10th episode of the Sky Peacock co-production, 'The Day of the Jackal.' They discuss the action-packed sequences, character motivations, and potential oversights in the plotting. Additionally, Victor offers a mini-review of the new Netflix thriller, 'Carry On,' comparing its tongue-in-cheek action to classics like 'Die Hard.' Show notes include ongoing discussions of 'The Agency,' and an invitation for listeners to share their underrated TV series and year-end best lists via email.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:37 Show Notes and Announcements
02:33 Mini Review: The Carry On
07:40 Movie Recommendations
10:27 Discussion on The Day of the Jackal Finale
33:11 Discussing Dexter's New Episode
35:51 Bianca's Family Dilemma
40:11 The Jackal's Airport Maneuvers
44:18 The Mansion Showdown
49:59 Season Finale Reflections

The Agency' - Episode 4 - Trust and Deception

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
 
In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' the hosts discuss the events of episode 4 of Showtime's series 'The Agency.' They delve into character dynamics, including Martian's (Michael Fassbender) complex relationship with Samia and Daniela's mission. The episode also covers geopolitical intrigue involving Sudan and China's negotiations. Show updates include upcoming discussions on 'The Day of the Jackal' finale, a deep dive into 'Severance' Season 1 in preparation for Season 2, and thoughts on the latest movie and TV premiers.
 
00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Episodes
02:38 Streaming Recommendations and Reviews
07:09 The Agency Episode 4 Breakdown
15:54 Martian's Interrogation and Flashbacks
27:00 Sona's Birthday and TV Show Discussions
37:51 Navigating Corporate and Academic Competitiveness
38:40 The Predator Dynamic in Professional Settings
39:06 Analyzing Daniela's Spycraft
40:08 Poppy and Fassbender's Chemistry
41:14 Therapy vs. Retail Therapy
41:58 Osman's Surveillance and Parental Bonding
42:33 Dr. Blake's Unconventional Therapy
45:44 Danny's High-Stakes Deception
54:01 Martian's Investigation and Flashbacks
01:02:18 Final Thoughts and Future Speculations

'The Day of the Jackal' Episode 9 - Full of Thrills and Missteps PLUS: 'Black Doves' and 'Kneecap'

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor and guest Darren discuss the latest episode of 'The Day of the Jackal,' covering the thrilling yet flawed assassination scene. They also touch on character dynamics, the surge in spy series, and other TV show recommendations like 'Black Doves' and 'The Agency.' Additionally, there are mentions of various spy and conspiracy-themed shows currently trending, a listener's voice memo from Wallace, and a brief commentary on the state of mistrust in power systems reflected in popular entertainment.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:48 Spy Series Recommendations
01:05 Black Doves and Other Series
05:29 The Popularity of Spy and Conspiracy Shows
08:33 Kneecap Movie Recommendation
10:20 Listener Feedback and Mr. Inbetween
12:08 Discussion with Darren: The Agency and More
15:53 Black Doves: A Deep Dive
33:39 Memorable Quotes and Profound Moments
34:04 The Jackal's Return Home
34:48 A Corny Yet Emotional Scene
35:16 The Duality of the Jackal's Actions
36:54 Nuria's Realization and Confrontation
38:30 Domestic Struggles and Assassination Plans
40:34 Public Assassination and Its Implications
43:31 The Impossible Shot and Its Consequences
48:35 The Jackal's Escape and Future Speculations
57:32 Final Thoughts and Predictions

'The Agency' Episode 3 - Working on Those Night Moves

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
We take a lift to the flat, this week as we delve into the third episode of the new Showtime/Paramount+ spy series, 'The Agency,' titled 'Hawk from a Handsaw.' Discussing various plot elements and character interactions, we touch on the episode's Shakespearean reference and its implications. We also review standout scenes, including intense moments between Martian and Dr, Blake. Additional topics include viewer feedback, the show's pacing, and comparisons to other spy narratives. The episode concludes with thoughts on the upcoming 'Dexter' prequel 'Dexter:Original Sin' and revisiting 'Dexter: New Blood.'
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:14 Exploring the Episode Title: Hawk from a Handsaw
00:52 Digression: Shakespeare and Personal Anecdotes
01:40 Soundtrack and Show Renewal News
02:15 Comparing the French and American Versions
04:48 Black Doves: A New Recommendation
07:29 General Takeaways and Plot Breakdown
10:43 Confusing Spy Elements and Character Dynamics
25:02 Tense Interpersonal Moments
31:02 Uncovering Secrets: The Apartment Investigation
31:21 Humor in the Details: Language Differences
32:16 Action in the Woods: A Change of Pace
34:03 The Climactic Confrontation: Dr. Blake and Martian
36:31 Catch-22 and Its Relevance
39:29 The Emotional Finale: Tears and Tension
47:59 Dexter: Original Sin Preview

'The Day of the Jackal' Episode 8 - The Jackal Unmasked

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this episode of 'Needs Some Introduction,' the hosts delve into the eighth episode of the Peacock original series, 'The Day of the Jackal.' The discussion covers the origins and motivations of Alexander Duggan, also known as the Jackal, through flashbacks from his time in Afghanistan. The show notes talk about his meticulousness and detachment from his military teammates and how a botched mission leads him to desert his unit under explosive circumstances. Meanwhile, MI6 agent Bianca continues her investigation into Duggan's identity, unearthing top-secret files and facing moral dilemmas. Viewer feedback is solicited, and the hosts also preview upcoming coverage of other series, including 'The Agency' and the new 'Dexter' prequel on Paramount Plus and Showtime.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:37 Upcoming Content and Show Notes
02:33 Plot Breakdown: Day of the Jackal Episode 8
02:41 Jackal's Backstory and Key Events
06:12 MI6 and UDC Developments
15:53 Discussion on Social Media Ban in Australia
20:34 Family Movie Reviews: Moana 2 and Wicked
23:05 The Agency: First Impressions
28:24 Episode Discussion
30:57 Analyzing the Media's Reaction
33:30 The Sniper's Mission in Afghanistan
35:46 Moral Compromises and Character Insights
37:23 The Botched Wedding Operation
45:53 Bianca's Investigation and Personal Struggles
51:33 Family Dynamics and Secrets Revealed
54:18 Speculations on the Series Finale

Love, Lies, and Spies: 'The Agency' Episodes 1 and 2

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' the hosts delve into the first two episodes of 'The Agency,' a dense and intricately plotted spy thriller series available on Showtime and Paramount Plus. They discuss the complex character dynamics, with a focus on Martian (Michael Fassbender) and his strained yet deep-seated relationships, particularly with his love interest Sammy and his handler Naomi. They also explore the perilous missions and personal stakes involved, touching upon themes of identity, loyalty, and the psychological toll of spy work. The episode also briefly touches upon recent Thanksgiving experiences, Black Friday deals, and other current TV recommendations.
 
00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Recap
00:26 Streaming Recommendations and Deals
01:55 Thanksgiving Stories and Cooking Tips
04:03 Introduction to 'The Agency' and Its Origins
06:25 First Impressions and Comparisons
08:51 Character Analysis and Plot Breakdown
21:34 Coyote's Incident and Its Implications
37:06 Secrets and Destruction
37:52 Conflicted Emotions
38:15 Awkward Interactions
39:05 Bombing and Panic
39:44 Father-Daughter Reunion
40:45 Spy Work and Realities
43:09 Training the Trainee
45:23 Mission Preparations
48:07 Interrogation and Deception
01:02:30 Exfiltration and Shootout
01:15:44 Future Speculations

'The Day of the Jackal' Episode 7 PLUS: Black Friday Streaming Deals

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this packed episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' the host wishes listeners a Happy Thanksgiving and breaks down episode seven of 'The Day of the Jackal,' featuring co-host Darren. The discussion covers major plot points, including Jackal's interactions with various characters and a suspenseful assassination attempt. Additionally, the episode highlights Black Friday streaming deals for services like Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Paramount+, with recommendations for shows and series worth watching. The hosts also touch on relevant documentaries and movies such as 'Exit Through the Gift Shop' and 'Hitman,' providing insights and personal reflections on these topics.
 
00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Greetings
00:20 Black Friday Streaming Deals
02:42 Peacock and Paramount Plus Offers
06:04 Conversation with Darren: The Day of the Jackal Breakdown
06:47 Music and Documentary Recommendations
11:34 Star Wars Series and Mystery Movies
14:56 Arcane and The Franchise Series
19:00 The Day of the Jackal: Episode Analysis
27:23 Discussing Rasmus' Role and Emotions
29:16 The Hilarious MI6 Sketch
30:22 Botched Assassination Attempt
31:53 The Jackal's Hideout and Preparations
34:38 The Big Day: Concert and Chaos
39:31 The Aftermath and Speculations
44:01 The Jackal's Next Move
48:57 Final Thoughts and Predictions

Aging with Grace in Netflix's 'A Man on the Inside' PLUS: Thoughts on 'Based on a True Story'

mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com
In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction', the host initially plans to review 'Based on a True Story' but shifts to discussing Mike Schur's new comedy series 'A Man on the Inside' starring Ted Danson. The conversation covers the show's heartwarming themes, its exploration of aging and personal connections, and the strong performances, particularly Ted Danson's. The episode also touches upon holiday plans, other recommended shows, and the importance of maintaining family relationships across generations.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:39 Holiday Plans and Family Traditions
02:06 Shoutout to My Daughter
03:37 Upcoming Shows and Streaming Deals
05:07 Review of 'Based on a True Story'
09:43 Introduction to 'A Man on the Inside'
15:32 Episode Breakdown and Analysis
15:40 Ted Danson's Career and Performance
31:22 Andre Brower and Homicide Life on the Streets
32:43 Heartfelt Moments and Character Dynamics
33:54 Senior Living Community and Social Dynamics
34:41 Humor and Relatable Moments
44:01 Emotional Depth and Family Relationships
53:14 Final Thoughts and Recommendations