Killer Serials: Recent Episodes
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker
Tony Jones and J. Ryan Parker discuss the best in the serial TV, with particular emphasis on spiritual and existential themes.
Tony and Ryan -- but mainly Tony -- chat with Luke Barnett, creator, writer, and producer of the comedy film Faith Based, streaming on Hulu. Luke talks about making a movie that mocks Christian culture, but in a kind and loving way, and getting kicked in the nuts by George Cosantza. Follow Luke's hilarious tweets @LukeBarnett.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the finale of the HBOMax limited series, Beartown. They talk about who the series is about (Peter or Maya), narrative loose ends, toxic masculinity, the Scapegoat Theory, and more.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the fourth episode of the HBOMax limited series, Beartown. They talk about crossing the bridge into the upcoming final episode, the town turning on Peter, mob mentality, and bribery.
They also recommend, for your viewing pleasure, the animated family comedy, The Mitchells vs. the Machines, and the French comedy series, Call My Agent, both now streaming on Netflix.
In this episode of the podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the third episode of the HBOMax limited series, Beartown. They talk about the aftermath of the sexual assault, the proximity of the violator to the victim's family, how Tony has discussed these themes with his teenaged kids, and how well equipped (or not) the church is to engage in these conversations.
In the latest episode of the podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the second episode of the HBOMax limited series, Beartown. They talk about the portrayal of sexual assault, the many problems with Kevin, and the impact of hockey success on the rest of the town.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the first episode of the HBOMax limited series, Beartown. They talk about delaying the inciting incident, small town similarities between Sweden and Minnesota, crazy hockey parents, and all the side eye.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the final episode of the Netflix docuseries, Murder Among the Mormons. They talk about "the big reveal," false narratives and proto-Trumpism and proto-Qanon implications, and the death penalty.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the second episode of the Netflix docuseries, Murder Among the Mormons. They talk about what the serialization of this story says about how we consume content; how they wish it would've been a feature-length dramedy (in the vein of War Dogs); the detectives' search for the bomber; Shannon Flynn's poker face; and Mark Hofmann's liver.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker turn their attention to the new Netflix limited docuseries, Murder Among the Mormons, directed by Jared Hess and Tyler Measom. They welcome Jana Riess, Killer Serial's resident Mormon, to discuss all things LDS and to give some context to what we've seen (and will be seeing) in this series.
In the latest episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the season one finale of WANDAVISION, now streaming on Disney+. They talk about why it felt a little like a let down even though there were more beautiful moments between Wanda and Vision, how COVID impacted the storytelling, and where we go from here.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode 108 of WANDAVISION, now streaming on Disney+. They talk about Wanda's ghosts of tragedies past, American exports of sit-coms and bombs, and that line from Vision...you know the one.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode 107 of WANDAVISION, now streaming on Disney+. Side note: Tony's finally watching Ted Lasso and, spoiler, loves it. But for the series at hand, they talk about the lack of a clear protagonist within Westview, the "surprise" Agatha reveal, the weaponization of fear and anger, how to disarm fear, and how all of this is intersecting with our pandemic moment.
The article on the Agnes/Agatha character in comics history: https://www.polygon.com/2021/2/19/22291025/wandavision-agnes-agatha-harkness-mephisto-theory.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode 106 of WANDAVISION, now streaming on Disney+. They talk about what the TV aesthetics of this episode might say about Wanda's control; Vision's vision of reality; Agnes' imprisonment; and the ways in which Westview mirror what often happens at megachurches when things get out of their leaders' control.
In this week's episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker break down episode 5 of WANDAVISION, streaming on Disney+. They talk about Wanda's agency and grief and the effect that this has on the residents of Westview...and herself. They also talk about simulation theory and whether or not we're just all brains in a vat.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode 4 of WandaVision, now streaming on Disney +. They welcome Tommy Hall on the show to talk about what might be going on in the world of Westview, the series as it relates to Wanda and Vision's past appearances in comics and film, and how we are surrounded by a host of individuals fighting to preserve their own created worlds in the face of chaos and uncertainty.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker dive into the new world of WANDAVISION, now streaming on Disney+. They talk about the boldness of putting these characters into such diverse settings with each new episode and why it's the perfect series for our anxious and uncertain times.
In the latest episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker turn their attention to a recent Netflix film, Dick Johnson is Dead (2020). What better way to celebrate the holidays than to gather with family and friends and watch an acclaimed documentarian stage her father's death over and over again? Kirsten Johnson's documentary is a beautiful, heart-felt, and heart-breaking reflection on family, love, memory, death, and grief. Tony and Ryan dive into these topics and more.
It's all come down to this. In the latest episode of the podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the series finale of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about where the series fits in the pantheon of great television, Daniel's revelation, Janet and Judy's visit, new details of the case, and the Talbot family's possible expansion to include Billy and Melvin.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the penultimate episode of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Daniel's therapy, Teddy's independence, Bobby Dean's apology, Sheriff Pickens' confession, and Tawney's revelation.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 4, episode 6 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix, and welcome Luke Kirby (who plays attorney Jon Stern) to talk about his role in the series and his larger career.
In this episode, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode 5 of season 4 of Rectify with writer/director Scott Teems. They talk about, among other things, writing an episode of television when you know the end is in sight; directing that heartbreaking scene with Teddy and Tawney; and Ted and Janet's unravelling.
On this week's episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode four of season four of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about the miracle of Chloe, Amantha and Billly's hunting trip (Tony approved), Daniel being stuck, and where Teddy and Tawney go from here.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 4, episode 3 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. Before digging into the episode, we suggest some other killer serials, specifically Ted Lasso, streaming on Apple TV+. In terms of Rectify, they talk about all the decisions that the members of the Holden family face: what will Amantha do about Billy; how will Daniel respond to Avery's suggestion that he seek PTSD counseling and Chloe's offer of a platonic friendship; and will Janet take the deal?
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 4, episode 2 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about the tension at Janet's house, Talbot date night, Billy and Amantha, and why all this feels like a '90s sitcom.
In this episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the first episode of Rectify season four. They talk about Daniel's new job, his halfway house, and the community reaching out to him there. They also reflect on the ways in which he has come to (or is coming to) terms with what happened to him, spiritually speaking, on death row.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the third season finale of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They discuss Tawney's theological crisis, Daniel's goodbye to Amantha and Janet, Sheriff Carl's interrogation of Chris and Trey, and John's visit to Senator Foulks. They also welcome Sean Bridgers to talk about his work on the series as our favorite dipper, Trey.
In the latest episode of the Killer Serials podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 3, episode 5 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Teddy's clarity, Tawney's uncertainty, Amantha's progression, Sheriff Carl's determination, and Trey's predicament.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome back writer/director Scott Teems to discuss season 3, episode 4 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They discuss shifting character sympathies, fraying relationships, Daniel's static nature, and the challenges and opportunities of writing and directing for television vs film.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 3, episode 3 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about changing attitudes towards Daniel, Amantha's healing, the growing rift between Janet and Ted, and what Trey may or may not be up to with Sheriff Carl.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 3, episode 2 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Daniel living his way out of limbo, his family feeling stuck in his decision to accept a plea deal, and Teddy's unravelling.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the first episode of the third season of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk at length about Teddy Jr.'s depression (and the brilliance of Clayne Crawford), Tawney's wandering, Daniel's decision and its destructive impact on his family, and what Senator Foulk's health scare might mean for the future of Daniel's case.
Tony and Ryan are thrilled to be joined by writer Kate Powers to discuss the final episode of season two, "Unhinged." Kate discusses her previous work on a couple of shows you may have heard of — Mad Men and Breaking Bad — and then chats about the intensity of bringing the second season on Rectify to a conclusion.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 2, episode 9 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Teddy's breakdown, Tawney's disappearance, banishment, and the arbitrariness of life and how religion helps people cope with it.
Here's a link to the Rectify playlist on Spotify that Tony reference's in the episode.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 2, episode 8 ("The Great Destroyer) of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about watching sports in the age of COVID and then take a deep dive into "The Great Destroyer" and discuss Tawney and Daniel's closure, Jared's moves, John Stern's exhaustion, and Ted's revelation.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season 2, episode 7 of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Daniel and Trey's wild, weird road-trip that culminates in a drug-and-alcohol-fueled rager in Georgie's trailer and what this all might mean for our understanding of Daniel's past, his identity, and his future freedom.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss watching TV with teenagers during quarantine and the generational divides between content consumption. Then they take a deep dive into season two, episode six of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about Ted rising to the occasion, Teddy Jr. sinking to new lows, Amantha and John's moment of happiness interrupted, and Daniel's quest into the past.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss season two episode five of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They discuss the "New South Bourgeoise," the rift between Janet and Ted, Amantha's light, and the two bombshells that Tawney drops on Teddy Jr.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome J. D. Evermore to discuss his role in Rectify as Sheriff Carl Daggett. They talk about Sheriff Daggett's character development from the first to second seasons; the difficulty of his situation in bringing justice to Daniel and Hannah; and how hard it was to keep a straight face in his conversation with Clayne Crawford (Teddy Jr.) at the end of the episode.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the third episode of the second season of Rectify, "Charlie Darwin," now streaming on Netflix. They talk about Daniel's big decision, its impact on those around him, and the implications for how we might view the world around us. They also consider how John and Hollis' conversation might influence John's ongoing work on Daniel's case.
In this week's episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the second episode of Rectify season two. They talk about Sheriff Dagget's pursuit of Bobby Dean, Tawney and Teddy Jr.'s fracturing relationship, and the role of memory (both individual and collective) in pursuing peace, justice, and reconciliation. They also welcome screenwriter Scott Teems to talk about his history with the series and the process of creating this episode.
In the latest episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the first episode of the second season of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They talk about theodicy and the afterlife and welcome actor Johnny Ray Gill for a conversation about his role in the series as Kerwin.
In this episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker unpack the season one finale of Rectify, streaming on Netflix. They discuss the height of Daniel's existential crisis, how it impacts those around him, Rene Girard's scapegoat theory, and how it functions in this southern tale. They also tease a special guest for next week's episode.
In this episode of the Killer Serials Podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker unpack season one, episode five of Rectify, now streaming on Netflix. They talk about the many biblical allusions in the episode (from the Prodigal Son to Jesus running a herd of swine off a cliff), the efficacy of Daniel's baptism, and Daniel's struggle with determining what is actually real.
In the latest episode of the Killer Serials Podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker take a deep dive into the fourth episode of the first season of Rectify. This week, they are joined by special guests, Michael D. Fuller and Graham Gordy, who wrote the episode. They discuss being part of the writers room on the first season, creating complex religious characters and settings, and making character choices that tap into what it means to be human.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back with a new episode of the Killer Serials Podcast, continuing their discussion of RECTIFY, season one, episode three, "Modern Times." This week they talk about cosmic narratives, human nature, and the role of myths and/or ghost stories in shaping cultural norms in the South.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back with a new episode of Killer Serials. This week they dive into the second episode of RECTIFY season one. It's all about sex, baby. And stigma. And, of course, time.
The Killer Serials Podcast is back with a new episode, and this week, hosts Tony Jones and Ryan Parker begin their episode-by-episode breakdown of the Peabody Award winning series, Rectify, which premiered on the Sundance Channel in April 2013. All 30 episodes are now streaming on Netflix. Tony and Ryan talk about the ways in which, in its very first episode, Rectify lays spiritual and theological groundwork through the themes of time, truth, and incarceration. Follow along with us as we dig into a new episode of Rectify each week.
We're on Instagram as killerserials and on Twitter as @killerserials1.
After a long hiatus, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back with a new episode of the Killer Serials podcast. Who knew that it would take a pandemic to kick them into gear? In this episode, they discuss the new four-part mini-series, UNORTHODOX, streaming on Netflix. It's an absolutely brilliant series with a stellar lead performance by Shira Haas as Esty, a young woman fleeing her conservative Hasidic Jewish community in New York. Tony and Ryan talk about the ways in which the hyper-conservative nature of Hasidic Judaism parallels that of other traditions; the use of fear to keep members in communities like this; the role of sex and sexuality in this series; and the appeal of the "otherness" of fringe religious communities to content creators and consumers.
In the latest episode of the Killer Serials podcast, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker unpack the first season of Russian Doll, now streaming on Netflix. They talk about the "coastal" character of the series, the salvific power of serving others, and the series portrayal of mental illness.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back with a new episode of the Killer Serials podcast. In this episode, they provide an obituary, of sorts, for the HBO comedy, CRASHING, which ended its three season run on Sunday, March 10. They discuss whether or not evangelical Christianity has anything of substance to contribute to pop culture, comedy as an avenue for theological reflection, and the religious/spiritual themes of each season.
In this episode of Killer Serials, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the new two-part HBO documentary series, Leaving Neverland, which chronicles Wade Robson and Jimmy Safechuck's accounts of their years-long experiences of sexual abuse by Michael Jackson. They talk about parental failure and if we can know whether or not we would have done better, celebrity as divinity, and the corruption of fame.
After a long hiatus, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back to discuss some killer serials, starting off this new season with Netflix's docuseries, Sunderland Til I Die. In this episode that talk about the culture, economics, and religion of sport, community, devotion, and manager as Messiah.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the final three episodes of the Netflix western, Godless. They talk about whether or not this should have been a film, quick deaths, magnificent shootouts, and an unforgiveable massacre.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back to discuss the third and fourth episodes of the Netflix limited series, Godless. They talk about weak characters, bloated plot lines, and whether or not Frank really wants to minister to the sick.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back after a long break to discuss the first two episodes of the new Netflix series, Godless. They talk about the myth of the wild west, the theological/religious implications of the series' title, and the problems of having, in part, an all-female setting, but few, if any, women in the writers' room.
A conversation about the Sundance Channel series, Rectify, with Presbyterian minister and chaplain, Marjory Roth.
A conversation about the Sundance Channel series, RECTIFY, with Rev. Garrett Bugg, pastor of Wycliffe Presbyterian Church in Virginia Beach, VA.
A conversation about the Sundance Channel series, RECTIFY, with Rev. Mark Reisinger, the Pastor of Beaver Memorial United Methodist Church in Lewisburg, PA.
A discussion of the Sundance Channel series, RECTIFY, with Rev. Colie Bettivia, Associate Pastor of Grace Congregational United Church of Christ.
It's finally here folks! The first season finale of The Handmaid's Tale, now streaming on Hulu. Tony Jones and Ryan Parker unpack this brutal episode and discuss Elisabeth Moss and Ann Dowd's awards-worthy performances, the superpower of pregnancy, American refugees, and where they'd like to see the second season start off.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of The Handmaid's Tale, now streaming on HULU. They talk about Offred's gamble, Ofwarren's disappointment, and their expectations for the finale and the start of the second season.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back to discuss the latest episode of The Handmaid's Tale, now streaming on Hulu. They talk about the nature of Captain Waterford's belief, the brothel as the truth that exposes the lie of Gilead, June's agency, and Nick's backstory.
Check out Alan Levinovitz's review of The Benedict Option, which also sheds some light on the setting of this series:
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome special guest Hank Stuever, chief television critic for The Washington Post, to talk about the latest episode of The Handmaid's Tale, now streaming on HULU. They discuss the TV critics' viewing conundrums, the state of television, and the new, male perspective on The Handmaid's Tale, along with the series' need for a stronger theological and religious foundation.
Be sure to check out all of Hank's work here.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest (and possibly definitive!) episode of THE HANDMAID'S TALE, now streaming on HULU. Be prepared for Tony's hot takes! They talk about Moss' award-worthy performance, utilitariansim vs. Puritansim, and comparisons between Gilead and present day United States.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome Danielle Shroyer to this week's episode of Killer Serials. They discuss episode 5 of THE HANDMAID'S TALE, now streaming on HULU. They talk about watching the series from a woman's perspective, the possibility of a better world for all, and women's magazines.
Danielle is the author of Original Blessing: Putting Sin in Its Rightful Place (Fortress Press), Where Jesus Prayed: Illuminations on the Lord's Prayer in the Holy Land (Paraclete), and The Boundary-Breaking God: An Unfolding Story of Hope and Promise (Jossey-Bass) and speaks often on issues of theology, church leadership, and emerging communities of faith. Danielle lives with her husband and two children in Dallas, Texas.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of the critically-acclaimed new series, THE HANDMAID'S TALE, now streaming on HULU. They talk about stretching the notion that when one person is oppressed all are oppressed, divinely-sanctioned rape, and a McCarthy-ian sense of hope.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker trun their attention to a new Killer Serial, THE HANDMAID'S TALE, now streaming on HULU. They talk about the dual nature of prophetic television, the marriage of religion and politics, and diverse dystopias.
Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes and check us out over at PopTheology (www.poptheology.com).
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome Keith Anderson,Pastor at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church, and one half of the fantastic podcast and discussion series, THE OA FOR LENT (along with Martin Malzahn). They talk about the spiritual and theological themes in the series and the practicalities of using cultural artifacts like TV series in the worshipping life of the church.
Note: Apologies for the minor audio glitches!
It's all come down to this. Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the second season finale of THE PATH, now streaming on HULU. Who are you, Team Cal or Team Eddie? What's the best way to "run" a religion? They talk about these topics and more on the latest episode of Killer Serials.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of THE PATH now streaming on HULU. They talk about Richard, his devotion to the Movement, his search for a new home, and being backed into a corner.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of THE PATH, now streaming on HULU. They talk about Richard's gamble, Felicia's wisdom, and human frailty.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of THE PATH, now streaming on HULU. They talk about the importance ritual and group confession and accountability, Tess' explosive entrance, and the impossibility of reconciliation and atonement while maintaining outsiders.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker break down The Path, episode 209, "Oz." Is Sarah with Cal, or is she with Eddie? Is Hawk gonna float again? And what's with Eddie's lightning scar?
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discusses the latest episode of The Path, now streaming on HULU. They talk about Cal's desparate attempts to fundraise (or friend-raise!), Eddie's drug-fueled spiritual journey, and the secret Cal's mom wants to share from her deathbed.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of THE PATH, now streaming on Hulu. They talk about fundamentalism, Hawk's ascension, and the powerful threat of doubt to a cult.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are stuck in L.A. traffic talking about THE PATH, season 2, episode 6, streaming on HULU. They discuss Cal's Macchiavelian moves with the Lane family, Hawk's fundamentalism, and Eddie's attempts to stay out of the movement.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episode five of season two of THE PATH, streaming on HULU. They talk about Sarah's devotion, dead cows, and Mary's baby daddy.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of THE PATH, which starts streaming on Hulu today. They talk about the collateral damage of missions, the tension between having agency and being mind-controlled in a religious community, and the power of the will to shape destiny.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episodes 2 & 3 of season 2 of THE PATH, now streaming on Hulu, and talk about the generational split in the movement, perceived and real supernatural occurences, and the agency of The Light.
Ryan Parker and Tony Jones dive back into The Path, Hulu's hottest show, created by Jessica Goldberg. In the first episode of season two, Eddie gets some special time with his kids, Sarah has a breakdown, and Cal proves that, indeed, nothing stays buried.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker wrap up 2016 with a discussion of one of the year's best series, TRANSPARENT. They talk about the brilliance of Judith Light, lament the absence of Rabbi Racquel, and speculate where the series might go in its upcoming fourth season.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the first five episodes of the third season of TRANSPARENT, streaming on Amazon, and the themes of religiosity, sexuality, classism, and narcissism.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the new Netflix documentary, Amanda Knox, and what it says about unjust legal systems, amoral media outlets, and the public's obsession with crime stories.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker wrap up their discussion of Marvel's Luke Cage, streaming on Netflix. They lament a fading narrative, celebrate strong performances, and discuss the theological importance of setting a story such as this in a particular, real world time and place.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episodes 9 & 10 of Marvel's LUKE CAGE, streaming on Netflix and the ways in which the narrative has begun to echo the biblical stories of Cain and Abel and Abraham, Isaac, and Ishmael.
Kutter Callaway, Assistant Professor of Theology and Culture at Fuller Seminary, joins Tony Jones and Ryan Parker for a discussion about his new book, WATCHING TV RELIGIOUSLY: TELEVISION AND THEOLOGY IN DIALOGUE. The new book is a perfect resource for educators, influencers, and fans looking to engage the medium on a deeper level.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episodes 7 & 8 of Marvel's LUKE CAGE, streaming on Netflix, and welcome Kutter Callaway of Fuller Seminary to talk about racial diversity, the use of scripture, and the way the series beckons us to talk theology and religion.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss episodes 5 and 6 of Marvel's Luke Cage, streaming on Netflix. In this episode, they talk about the role of the church, viewing the world as a battle field vs. seeing it as a pasture, and whether or not we can rightly refer to "back in the day."
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome guest Jay Bakker to discuss episodes 3 & 4 of Marvel's Luke Cage. Jay and Ryan attempt to school Tony on the Marvel cinematic universe and talk about what Luke's backstory has to say about political, cultural, and religious issues today.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the new Netflix hit, Luke Cage, and talk about how it's folding in current events and concerns, celebrating black history and culture, and drawing on religious imagery and narratives. They're also well aware that as a couple of white guys, they're probably only scratching the surface of the series' themes and references.
As PhDs are want to do, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker belatedly discuss this year's Emmys, what they say about pop culture, what we think about the winners, and what our next Killer Serial will be.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker welcome John Bucher to the podcast to talk all things STRANGER THINGS. They look back on the entire first season, talk about where the second season might go, themes of sacrifice (self and otherwise), and whether or not Eleven is a Messiah figure and the boys are her disciples.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the hit Netflix documentary series, LAST CHANCE U, and look at the power of football in America and higher education, different ways of teaching and learning, and the cast of characters that enrich the series.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the final two episodes of The Preacher on AMC. They talk about conversations with God, cowboys in hell, and the role of materialist theology. Enjoy!
This week, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss the latest episode of PREACHER on AMC TV, Odin's spiritual & theological crises, the last stand at the Alamo, and Jesse's willingness to sacrifice his power for Eugene.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker discuss this week's episode of PREACHER on AMC, the role of Cassidy as moral conscience, the brilliance of Ruth Negga (be sure to check out the trailer for LOVING--https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33g-ZHBQdNU), and what the hell Quincannon's up to.
After a brief hiatus due to travels, tragedies, and holidays, Tony Jones and Ryan Parker are back to discuss the last three episodes of PREACHER. In this episode, they discuss the nature of Genesis and its effect on Jesse, the loss of humility as a preacher's downfall, and Eugene's insight into guilt, forgiveness, and penance.
Craig Detweiler (professor of communications at Pepperdine University) joins Ryan Parker to talk about the latest episode of Preacher on AMC. They talk about divine complexities, reading John Muir in a slaughterhouse, and how the series captures the best of Bonnie and Clyde and No Country for Old Men.
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker continue their discussion of Preacher on AMC, which is shaping up to be every bit the character-driven drama as it is supernatural, thriller, Western. They get nit-picky about the presentation of religion, but love the struggle at the heart of Jesse's character. And how about that chainsaw scene?!
Tony Jones and Ryan Parker kick off their discussion of a new Killer Serial, AMC's Preacher, an adaptation of the cult classic comic series by Garth Ennis. In this episode, they talk about different narrative trajectories, the establishment of the three main characters, violence, and the prophetic nature of the comic books regarding the status of religion in America.