The Bagel Report: Recent Episodes
Erin Ben-Moche and Esther D. Kustanowitz
The Bagel Report is a pop-culture entertainment podcast featuring award-winning culture and entertainment writers Esther D. Kustanowitz and Erin Ben-Moche. Each episode, these entertainment junkies discuss all things Jewish in the arts & entertainment world while exploring how Jewish identity is portrayed on the big and small screen. Follow us on social @estherk and @ebenmoche and on Twitter and Facebook @TheBagelReport .
This week, Esther and Erin took a field trip to Village Well in Culver City because they had a LATTE to talk about!
From Andor's series finale to the themes of Reformed and Amy Poehler's new podcast, the bagels break down what they're watching and what they're listening to. Erin, in honor of Esther's birthday, also asked Esther about her rose, thorn, and seed for the year.
Check out these links:
Reformed Trailer
Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money Teaser
This week, Erin and Esther sit down with Tzivia Schwartz Getzug, a consultant for DreamWorks' iconic animated film The Prince of Egypt. With its star-studded cast, stunning visuals, and unforgettable soundtrack, The Prince of Egypt was a landmark in animated storytelling, and now Tzivia takes us behind the scenes of the epic retelling of the Exodus story, sharing her role in shaping the film’s extensive outreach to faith communities.
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Fumi Kitahara. Check out these links:
Fumi Kitahara in Deadline
VAL Trailer--- You can watch the documentary on Amazon Prime Video
Val Kilmer feature in the New York Times
Esther and Erin reunite to discuss new jobs, the devastating wildfires, and the upcoming awards season. They also review films like indie comedy Bad Shabbos, Marvel sequel Captain America: Brave New World, and Oscar-nominated Holocaust epic The Brutalist. Later, the Bagels celebrate 50 years of Saturday Night Live and discuss the sentimental value it brings to many generations.
Check out these links!
Donate to Fire Relief: https://fireaidla.org Donate to Jewish LA relief efforts: jewishla.org/wildfire-crisis-relief/
Holocaust Museum LA Bad Shabbos Trailer SNL 40 "That's When You Break!"
SNL 50 Adam Sandler Song
This week, Esther and Erin are celebrating Hanukkah...and all the award show nominations trickling in. They congratulate "A Real Pain" and the Netflix rom-com favorite "Nobody Wants This" and later break down "September 5," the historical drama about the Munich Olympics massacre and the ABC Sports team that covered the events.
Check out these links:
Six13's Wicked Hanukkah The Maccabeats Hanukkah
This week, Esther and Erin speak with Jessica Jablon from Sharsheret, an organization supporting Jewish women and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer. They discuss Sharsheret's services, including mental health support, genetic counseling, and the successful "Pies for Prevention" program, which has raised over $115,000 this year. The conversation also highlights breast cancer storylines in TV and film and the importance of early detection and personalized medical care.
Learn more about Sharsheret at sharsheret.org
This week, Esther and Erin defy gravity and geek out over the movie musical, "Wicked." They analyze the complex relationships between Elphaba and Glinda and themes of outsiderhood and privilege. They do a deep dive into the clever Easter eggs, including potential connections to "Frozen," the Wizard’s portrayal by Jeff Goldblum, and the connections to Jewish identity and social justice. Plus, they delve into the symbolism of the characters, including a link to the Passover Seder.
This week, Esther and Erin break down Jesse Eisenberg's new Jewy film, A Real Pain, and what makes his and Kieran Culkin's performances so captivating. They also dive into the high-stakes thriller September 5th, a gripping retelling of the Munich Olympics Israeli hostage crisis and what it brings up in a post-Oct. 7th world. The bagels even talk about the new Paramount+ documentary about an Israeli-Palestinian boy band that came to LA to start a music career on Oct. 6th, 2023.
Check out these links:
NPR's Retrospective on the Munich Olympics September 5th Trailer As1One Music Video
Erin and Esther are celebrating the fifth anniversary of this little ol' podcast! After some reflections on all we've lived through since October 2019 (!!), the Bagels move down the Jewish interpretive road, examining "Agatha All Along" — its bar mitzvah episode and other moments and images that remind us of Jewy things. Looking ahead to November, the Bagels discuss A Real Pain, the movie written and directed by and starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin. Erin bubbles with enthusiasm about the release of Wicked and talks about the film's long production road. So if you care to find us, look to the Western Sky, or join us on the Bagels' Road. If you're reading this, you're with us already. And we're so grateful for that! Check out these links: Agatha's Jewy Plotline via Variety A Real Pain Trailer Wicked Trailer Stephen Schwartz Is Still ‘Defying Gravity’
As the Bagels reflect on the Jewish New Year and the anniversary of the Oct. 7th terror attacks in Israel, they are also uplifted thanks to a conversation about Reboot Studios' latest project, "We Should Eat." Written and directed by Shaina Feinberg and developed by Alysia Reiner, the short tells the story of a Jewish family with a Filipino father and Jewish mother. The duo tells Esther and Erin about the film's diverse Jewish experiences and nuanced character dynamics while addressing existential dread and intergenerational trauma.
Check out these links:
Shaina Feinberg's A Brief History of Hating My Face | NYT Reboot's The Anne Frank Gift Shop Sneak Peak Learn more about Reboot here.
Nobody Wants This? More like somebody wants this! Rabbinic representation gets the Hollywood treatment in the new Netflix romantic comedy series "Nobody Wants This," about atheist podcaster Kristen Bell falling for rabbi Adam Brody. The show's trailer and title set up negative expectations, but how did the series portray Jewish life and ritual? Is the show engaging enough for a second season? And what could a show like this do for Jews in interfaith relationships? Join the bagels for a long-ranging and in-depth conversation about this 10-episode series. If you've already binged it or have just started streaming, send us your thoughts at thebagelreport@gmail.com.
Check out these links: Nobody Wants This trailer
Chrismukkah clip from the OC
Adam Brody in Fleishman Is in Trouble
This week the Bagels discuss the importance of balancing joy and tragedy. They remember the six Israeli hostages killed by Hamas while kvelling over the very Jewish wedding of Ben Platt and Noah Galvin. They also review the trailer for the upcoming Netflix series "Nobody Wants This," featuring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody; shout out Ilana Glazer's friend-flick, "Babes," and rave over Adam Sandler's newest Netflix special, "Love You."
The Bagels are glad to have found Jonathan Branfman, a professor at Stanford and author of the book, Millennial Jewish Stars: Navigating Racial Antisemitism, Masculinity and White Supremacy, to discuss how on-screen portrayals of Jewish people or situations have changed over the decades. Jon tells us about "Goyface" and how it relates to "Jewface" and racial minstrelsy. Plus, shoutouts to Andi Mack, Lil’ Dicky, Uncut Gems, Broad City, Logan Lerman, Zac Efron, Adam Brody and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. This episode will fulfill your Judaic studies academic requirements and involve you in a long-ranging discussion about Jewish masculinity in popular culture AT THE SAME TIME!
Follow Jonathan Branfman on Instagram @JonBranfman
Check out these links!
Thinking about Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (academic papers)
Andi Mack Major Jewish and LGBTQ moment
Zac Efron on SNL
Esther's review of Israeli vampire series "Juda"
Friends of the Pod Friday Night Movie
This week, the bagels chat with Rebecca Margolis, author of The Yiddish Supernatural on Screen: Dybbuks, Demons and a Haunted Jewish Past and Yiddish comedy in American film and television. She and the Bagels do a deep dive into the Yiddish language and how it finds its way into TV and film. Later, she answers Erin and Esther's questions about Dybbuks and why they continue to show up in supernatural spaces.
Only the Bagels know how to connect the Muppets, Broadway and SpermWorld. This episode's journey explores the history of the Muppets, the guest stars at Ben Platt's new Broadway show and the return of one of Esther's faves, Hacks. Esther and Erin also anticipate upcoming camp movies, are moved by Jerry Seinfeld's emotions, and talk documentaries, from SpermWorld to The Jinx. We also create our ultimate Jewish Pride Pop-Culture Playlist.
Check Out These Links:
Jim Henson Documentary
Hacks Season 3 on HBO
Jerry Seinfeld and Bari Weiss
SpermWorld and the NYT piece that inspired the doc.
The Jinx and The Jinx PART 2
Erin and Esther are back together, sharing their TV-must-watches as well as what they're looking forward to, Jewy pop culture-wise. Erin talks Netflix is a Joke Fest and especially John Mulaney's limited talk show format, "Everybody's in L.A." Esther downloads her time in Israel and tunes out for Erin's Bridgerton review. Digressions include puns, GenZ phrases, Kveller articles, pop tarts, graduation speakers and more. Check Out These Links: The Jews Are Coming Jerry Seinfeld's Commencement Speech at Duke Unfrosted Trailer Everybody's in LA Clip Dinner with the Parents aka Friday Night Dinner Jewish Bridgerton Treasure Trailer New Adam Brody RomCom on Netflix
This week, the Bagels are joined in the virtual studio by Emmy-winning comedian Rob Kutner. He shares his experiences writing on Conan and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, as well as how he ghostwrote Marvel's meta-novel, Look Out for the Little Guy. Kutner also updates Erin and Esther on his latest project, God's Gang, a multicultural kid's series about superheroes, unity and peace.
Check out these links:
God's Gang: Full Episode
God's Gang Website
Look Out for the Little Guy Trailer
More on Rob Kutner!
What a week: Curb Your Enthusiasm ended, Alex Edelman's Just For Us dropped on Max, and We Were The Lucky Ones, Dinner with the Parents, and tons of other shows are keeping TV Jewy. This week Esther and Erin tackle the big questions: who's worse, Larry David or the Seinfeld Four? Why do LD's friends tolerate him? And why wasn't there more of a tribute to Richard Lewis? And to top it all off, Passover's coming...and we've got playlists and parodies and haggadahs, oh my! Check out these Links!
Curb's Last Day on Set Dinner with The Parents Trailer Lena Dunham Learns She's Jewish Can You Feel the Dayen-ergy? Esther's Kenough Passover Kveller's Passover Parody Contest
Passover Playlist from Mike Boberg of The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati And his Purim playlist Raymond Simonson's Playlist to an Exodus Crazy Ex-Girlfriend audio haggadah playlist episode that explains the playlist More Passover pop culture from Esther: Heroes Haggadah Schitt's Creek Haggadah
This week, the Bagels were joined by Rabbi Sharon Brous, the founder of IKAR in Los Angeles. Esther and Erin asked questions about Brous' new book, "The Amen Effect: Ancient Wisdom to Mend Our Broken Hearts and World." The bagels and Brous touched on the value of community in the darkest of times while also finding moments of joy. The Bagels also recapped the Oscars and Rabbi Brous joined in on a pop-culture speed round.
You can find The Amen Effect at a bookstore --virtual or in-person-- near you.
Check out these links: Erin's Oscar Coverage
Rabbi Sharon Brous' Ted Talk
This week Erin shares her journey to the 96th Academy Awards and tries to explain all 2 hours and 46 minutes of Dune: Part 2 to Esther. Later, Esther and Erin remember comedian Richard Lewis who passed away last week at the age of 76. Esther recalls his recent Curb Your Enthusiasm cameos and other famous roles as well as his impact on comedy.
Check out these links: Follow Erin's Oscar coverage here (kfiam640.iheart.com)
‘Dune 2’ is set thousands of years in the future — so why does it feel like a parable about Gaza?
Is ‘Dune’ a Retelling of the Passover Story? Murtaza Hussain & Yair Rosenberg on The Daily Show The Ally
Perhaps in honor of January's Holocaust Remembrance Day, or perhaps in anticipation of March's Oscars and May's Yom Hashoah — it's never the wrong time to #NeverForget. This week the Bagels talk about the influx of Holocaust-themed movies and TV shows like The New Look, A Small Light, Transatlantic and the upcoming One Life, The Tattooist of Auschwitz and We Were the Lucky Ones. Erin saw The Zone of Interest during an L.A. flood warning and Esther took a virtual tour of Auschwitz. The two discuss what the trend in Holocaust content means and how it affects antisemitism and Jewish representation. Plus, Schindler's List is 30; a delayed news brief about the Shabbat on Broadway event that seemed to come out of nowhere; and Susie and Jeff have a Curb Your Enthusiasm podcast. Check out these links: Six Million Voices
Difficult People The New Look Coco Chanel's Nazi History Schindler's List Oral History -- The Hollywood Reporter
Seinfeld Schindler's List Scene Shabbat on Broadway Curb Your Enthusiasm Podcast
Hadassah Magazine The Wolf Hunt
Get it? Cause we're bagels...Grab a cup of spite and a dry scone because this week the bagels are talking about the final season of Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm. This episode has everything: guest stars, fan contributions, the Holocaust and Elmo. Let us know what you think of the 12th season of the series, which is now available on HBO and MAX. Check out these links! A Real Pain The Floaters ElmoGate Larry David Defends ElmoGate on Seth Meyers Larry Latte Pop-Up
It's a new year and that means the return of Erin's favorite joke annually told by Esther. This week, the Bagels talk about the upcoming awards season, and learn more about Maestro "Lenny" as well as how musical conducting is a lens through which to view leadership. Erin and Esther issue a Shabbat dinner invitation to Alanis Morissette, who discovered her Jewish roots, and talk about Ava DuVernay's upcoming film, Origin. Plus, Jessica Seinfeld's Instagram posts about her trip to Israel with her famous husband; and celebrating The Amen Effect, the eagerly-awaited book by IKAR Founder Rabbi Sharon Brous. The kvelling is substantial.
Check out these links!
Are the Golden Globes Unlikeable?
Finding Your Roots: Born to Sing
Ted Talk Lead Like the Great Conductors
Hollywood Reporter: Maestro Howard Rosenman
Seinfelds Visit Israel
The Amen Effect Book Tour
Hallmark finally got Hanukkah right and gifted us with “Round and Round,” a charming, delightful movie that imagines the Festival of Lights as a time loop. In addition to this great watch at year’s end, the Bagels have a list of other time loop episodes for you to check out and some movies — old and new — to end 2023 with. May 2024 bring us peace, health, and lots of new content to talk about. Happy New Year!
Check out these links:
Learn More About Round and Round
Greenback Boogie Lyrics (Suits Theme)
Click Movie Starring Adam Sandler
Esther shares insights from her screening of Maestro, pulling on the Jewish identity threads in the film (and yes, addressing the nose). The bagels also discuss Sarah Silverman's role in the film and her evolving, honest opinions about Jewish representation. Erin recommends Adam Sandler's Leo and looks forward to a new Jake Johnson comedy as well as a new Hanukkah movie featuring a time loop. Plus, revisiting our expectations about Jewish celebrities using their platforms to speak out about current events and Jewish issues, and running through the IMDB profile of Norman Lear, z"l. May the light of this season shine brightly, especially for those who are living in darkness. Wishing all our listeners a hopeful and illumination-centered Hanukkah.
Check out these Links:
Sarah Silverman in the LA Times Spielberg's statement Leo trailer Y-Stud's A Taylor Swift Hanukkah Maccabeats Hanukkah Song
This week, Erin and Esther celebrate another year of the Bagel Report which has been talking about all things Jewish and pop culture since October 2019! They also recap the mitzvah of Alex Edelman's unabashed Jewish representation and give a shoutout to the new Meg Ryan and David Duchovny movie (but never actually name the movie, which is: What Happens Later.) Esther gets a little serious, talking about opportunities to raise awareness for the hostages from the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel. Erin also seeks out Hallmark Christmas movies to ice her brain and offers a prayer for a rom-com. Check out these links: Alex Edelman Just for Us Bring Him Home video https://oneminaday.com/?filter= https://www.metoo-unlessurajew.com/social-share The Shark is Broken Albert Brooks documentary Defending Your Life
With things still crazy and tragic in Israel and Gaza, we continue to hold the hostages in our minds and our hearts. At the same time, the Bagels allow some space for joy and chat with screenwriter Alison Peck, writer of the Netflix movie "You Are SO Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah" (produced by Adam Sandler and starring at least three additional Sandler family members, and based on the 2005 book by Fiona Rosenbloom). We talk about our connections to Israel and to Jewish life, brainstorm ideas for Peck-Kustanowitz-BenMoche collabs and try to get Alison a brand partnership with Converse. Check out these links! https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/new-initiatives-look-to-help-jewish-teens-connect-to-themselves-and-their-community-before-becoming-adults/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Are_So_Not_Invited_to_My_Bat_Mitzvah Moving Traditions webinar with Alison Peck: https://www.movingtraditions.org/whos-invited-to-your-b-mitzvah-resources/
This is not a normal episode. Erin and Esther process an impossible week while reacting to celebrity prayers for peace.
With the help of IKAR, their spiritual community, Erin and Esther have atoned! Now the Bagels are breaking down their Yom Kippur experience and celebrating the end of the WGA strike. And apparently, Hallmark Christmas Movie season begins in September, so Erin shares some news about the Hanukkah movie coming to town. Esther also talks about Hed Lamarr's hidden gifts through the PBS documentary Bombshell.
If we had but one Rosh Hashanah wish...the Bagels would create and "bam-copyright" Hanukkah and Elul advent calendars. The Bagels prepare for the High Holy Days by manifesting wishes for 5784 and recommending movies and shows with themes that match Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Erin makes the case for Netflix's #1 show Suits as a great High Holy Days rewatch, and Esther invents a college course about faith, science and pop culture that no one asked her to develop. Plus, both of your hosts make pop culture resolutions: each to overcome resistance to shows that the other thinks are TV musts. Sending our wishes to you all for a shana tova - a happy new Jewish year!
SNL's Steve Martin Holiday wish:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uVUSBi3u0E
Suits Opening Theme:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Q18TnxZxLI
Finally, a movie with "bat mitzvah" in the title! What a time to be alive. :) The Adam Sandler-produced film, written by Alison Pick and directed by Sammi Cohen hit Netflix on August 25th and we've been talking about it ever since! Join Erin and Esther for a deep dive: Did you always get called by your Hebrew name in Hebrew school? What were your bat mitzvah themes? And who is Bagel Face? Get the download on Shabbat cookies, name cakes, and adolescent drama. Plus Erin’s reveal — she's encountering matzah ball ignorant people — and Esther spins a Sephardi backstory for Mateo.
'Golda' is now in theaters, with a tour de force performance by Helen Mirren as the Israeli Prime Minister, and wonderful supporting performances. We'll talk more about the film's content in future episodes, but in this special short-and-sweet episode, Erin and Esther interviewed the film's director, Guy Nattiv, who provided his insights on the woman the film presents to audiences, some of them, for the first time. To better understand our interview, we've gathered some information below that may be helpful, including more about the people he mentions during the interview. Enjoy - and feel free to email us with any questions: thebagelreport@gmail.com. More about Golda Meir and her impact: He says that Golda didn't believe Marwan “the Angel” - a spy who worked for both Egypt and the Mossad and that when Arab leaders wanted to speak with her she thought they were crying wolf — Nattiv used the term “wolf, wolf” - an Israeli idiom for crying wolf: Ze'ev, ze'ev. He refers to Meron Medzini, Meir's former press secretary and one of her biographers: you can watch one of his lectures about Meir here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVcAEZ9RuVo
Lou Kedar, Meir's longtime assistant, did an interview for the AP after Meir died — read the author's reflection on that interview here: https://www.timesofisrael.com/the-time-i-didnt-meet-golda-meir/ Golda's impact on Ukraine and President Zelenskyy https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/promova-prezidenta-ukrayini-volodimira-zelenskogo-v-kneseti-73701 https://www.jta.org/2022/03/09/global/former-israeli-prime-minister-golda-meir-is-a-hero-to-ukrainians-in-the-fight-against-russia
Erin and Esther went to see Theater Camp together and spoiler alert, everything is adorable, especially Molly Gordon and Ben Platt. This week was all about unpacking the film’s cinematic influences while reminiscing about our own camp/theater camp experiences at Camp Tamarack and Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. Even though the bagels attended camp at different times and places, their life lessons were similar. Lessons include how any musical number can be translated into Hebrew, and that there are no small roles, only small child actors. Have a favorite camp movie? We do, but advise you not to google “popular camp movies” or you might find yourself in the middle of WW2. As the WGA strike continues well past 100 days, we give a shout-out to Hannah Einbinder’s Jewish activist presence, good Mandy Patinkin vibes and Marnina Schon’s Jewy comments on protesting. Later, Jewish erasure in Oppenheimer takes on a new angle, and, as two unrelated movies come out the same day, we have to ask ourselves: is You Are So Not Invited to Golda’s Bat Mitzvah the new Barbenheimer?
Hi Broadway!! (Hi Broadway!) Welcome to Season 3 of The Bagel Report! Our episode recorded after the Tonys — recorded in June, but new to you! — gets a new Barbenheimer intro to an episode about Jewy Broadway, with an exploration of Alex Edelman's "Just for Us," which Esther saw in New York. Erin breaks down the importance of "Parade," plus mentions for "Leopoldstadt" and "Rent," and Erin asks Esther to define "TV Gone Jewy." Shabbat pajamas, what?? (Visit https://midrashmanicures.com/ and use the code JWEEKLY!) SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Midrash Manicures (for Shabbat pajamas, Barbie-inspired challah cover and more!) Washington Post article about Alex Edelman getting advice from famous comedy people Just For Us - get tickets for Alex Edelman's Broadway show here Golda film - TRAILER You are SO Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah! - https://www.netflix.com/title/81416306 Visit us on socials! IG: @TBRthepod, @estherkustanowitz @ebenmoche X? Is that really what we're calling it? Oh fine: @TheBagelReport, @EstherK @ebenmoche
Erin and Esther take to the studio: Esther discovers what it means to do a comedy roast for a concept, and Erin recommends a film about an ember and a wave who fall in love, and may represent different immigrant stories. And the Bagels talk about their dads, sharing essential characteris and musing over casting ideas
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
Modi clip
Elon gold clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CY3aTshYG8
Elementals clip
https://jweekly.com/2023/06/16/howie-mandel-and-rachel-bloom-headline-an-la-comedy-roast-of-anti-semitism/
Breaking down the Renaissance Faire, cosplay and the Gilded Age with fashion historian Vi (pronounced "vee"), from the SnappyDragonStudios channel on YouTube. We talk about Jewish 1880s fashion and Vi's recreation of her great-great-grandmother's dress, as well as "The Clothes on our Backs," the YouTube series she produced with guidance from the Jewish Writers Initiative Digital Storytelling Lab.
Plus — you knew they had to — the Bagels take one more tour through The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, but from a fashion perspective, talking about how show corsets, sitting and standing skirts, and colors inform the show's characters.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links!
MyJewishLearning class on Jewish ren faire -
SnappyDragon channel - https://www.youtube.com/@SnappyDragon
What HBO's The Gilded Age Leaves Out - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_O-VnIndndA&t=605s
Jewish Historical Fashion: https://www.youtube.com
/playlist?list=PLSbboTUNfEhAzaWBta3XgEC8_o0i_SmSn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misssnappydragon/
snappydragonstudios.patreon.com
Facebook and Twitter: @misssnappydragon
As Mrs. Maisel takes her final bow, the Bagels review the finale episode and the series as a whole: its highlights and misses, unanswered questions, and a robust number of listener comments and questions. Go watch the season 5 finale, and then join us for the conversation.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
https://decider.com/2023/04/14/the-marvelous-mrs-maisels-season-5-time-jumps-explained-timeline-in-order/amp/
The incredible “one shot” https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cs7Oh0kAGJ6/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
Kevin Pollak is doing a Maisel rewatch podcast so The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel truly never ends! https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cs8rjZGL7zZ/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
"The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel's" fictional Gordon Ford Show, like non-fictional late-night comedy shows, has a head writer: Alvin, played by Austin Basis, who joined the Bagels for a rousing conversation about the end of the show, Jewish comedy influences and which cars on Coney Island's Wonder Wheel are the best.
Also in the virtual studio, filmmaker Michael Horwitz, writer/director of the short film "Kanashimi" (produced by Todd Felderstein) which features Austin in a leading role. Come for the Maiselness, stay for the indie film chatter and Jewish camp shoutouts.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
http://press.amazonstudios.com/us/en/original-series/the-marvelous-mrs-maisel/5
https://seedandspark.com/fund/kanashimi#story
Jewish Matchmaking? On Netflix? Who could have predicted this a year ago? Now that The Bagels have finished bingeing the series, they got a chance to speak with the utterly delightful comedian Pamela Schuller about her standup, dating with Tourette's and disability inclusion.
A long-ago meeting with the show's matchmaker, Aleeza Ben Shalom, built trust and laid the groundwork for Pamela's appearance on the series (she's four-foot-six and went on a date with Stuart) — and the rest is (very recent) history. Pamela, as always, was authentic and funny, answering questions about the show, the difference between her standup gigs and her inclusion/advocacy gigs, putting herself out there and the search for a partner. Plus, Jewish geography!
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
https://jweekly.com/2023/05/17/aleeza-ben-shalom-made-me-fall-in-love-with-jewish-matchmaking/
https://twitter.com/PamelaComedy/status/1658125061876842500
https://pamelacomedy.com/
Are you there, listeners? It’s us, the Bagels…and this week we’re sharing initial reactions to the Netflix show Jewish Matchmaking and its stars, as well as our feelings about seeing Judy Blume's beloved classic story "Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret" on the big screen.
And Mothers’ Day gives us a chance to reflect on the things we appreciate about and have inherited from our mothers, as well as taking a spin through some of our favorite moms of pop culture.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
The cast guide for Jewish Matchmaker on Netflix - https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/jewish-matchmaking-season-1-cast-instagrams-guide
Are You There God? It's Me Margaret trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzRzojHC3iE
This week, the Bagels welcome Jenni Rudolph and Maryam Chishti, co-executive directors of The LUNAR Collective to the virtual studio to talk about Asian Jewish identity. How do they feel about Asian representation in movies like Everything Everywhere and Turning Red?
Jenni and Maryam share personal stories and tease a possible LUNAR Jewish-Asian Book Club. The Bagels and the LUNAR team peel back layers of identity to find meaning and explore the idea of inclusion and belonging. What kind of bagels would they be? After all that peeling, we can't believe that no one said "onion bagel."
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
LINKS:
LUNAR Collective: https://www.weareasianjews.org/
Film series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU5vDDCvar8WpNACWM1bWT78aSB1NiEiv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asian.jews/
Esther and Erin finally dive into The Mandalorian's Jewish themes with the help of two guests who love Jewish identity, Star Wars and popular culture: J. Editor David A.M. Wilensky and Rabbi Howard Tilman.
What is a Mandalorian and does it matter? Why is this show resonating with Jewish viewers? And is a homeland a place or state of mind? Even if you're like Erin, who is new to the fandom, there is something for everyone in this episode, like MCU Easter Eggs, Fiddler on the Roof nods and Harry Potter pivots.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
LINKS:
Howard Tilman is on Twitter: @TweetsOfTorah and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howardtilman
The Mandalorian on Disney+
Judaism Corner on House of R - https://www.theringer.com/2023/3/10/23634829/the-mandalorian-season-3-episode-2-deep-dive-plus-katee-sackhoff
- https://www.theringer.com/2023/4/14/23683139/the-mandalorian-season-3-episode-7-deep-dive
Harry Rubenstein on Reels: https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTYrUhoyuY/
The story about Rabbi Akiva and the foxes overrunning a destroyed Jerusalem
https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/296637/jewish/The-Laughter-of-Rabbi-Akiva.htm
Esther and Erin are twirling their way into the first few episodes of the final season of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel." We go back so that Midge can "go forward" — and also literally go forward in time, jumping from the 60s to the 80s, and getting a clearer picture of what it was like to be a child in the Maisel household.
Plus, kvelling for Judaism consultant Todd Shotz and his work on that super-Jewy episode of Grey's Anatomy, and getting excited about Zach Braff talking about kosher plates.
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
LINKS:
Todd’s episode - https://jweekly.com/2023/02/03/bagels-on-set-talking-you-people-with-its-jewish-consultant-todd-shotz/
Conan O’Brien’s Zach Braff episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYAo624tipg
This is where I leave you =- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fH0cEP0mvlU
Yeminite poem/ Ofra Haza video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aW-QAeLoMw
1960 plane crash - https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/1960-new-york-city-plane-crash-back-gallery-1.1549629
Finding Holocaust victims' names using technology - https://jweekly.com/2023/04/13/once-just-faces-these-holocaust-victims-now-have-names/?fbclid=IwAR2zvi-9puxIJIYz4bJYmiEEebio6vpis03Z-B5py6eKutuvSFNtiPFy-BY
After years of analyzing Rachel Bloom's musical series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Erin and Esther felt equipped to create a Passover Haggadah filled with songs from the show. It comes with rules, of course.
Erin and Esther carefully considered how the pre-existing Crazy Ex-Girlfriend songbook, its titles, lyrics and themes, might be applied to the Passover seder and story. So with that, we hope you enjoy, laugh and sing a little with the kosher-for-passover Bagels as they journey through West Covina (er, Egypt) this Passover. Chag Sameach!
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
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Links to song: https://cxg.fandom.com/wiki/Category:Songs
This episode is in memory of Orli Chaim Wildman Halpern, who died March 17 after a long fight against cancer. She was a self-described bold (and bald) feminist and Swiftie, who loved her dog and Lizzo. May her memory be a blessing and an inspiration.
Is AI taking over the world?! Unclear, but it is attempting to take over Passover...Esther and Erin explore the latest AI-generated Haggadah supplements and evaluate their potential impact on this year's Seders. Then a topic change...to climate change and Jews, as depicted in Extrapolations on Apple TV+.
We love Daveed Diggs playing a social justice rabbi grappling with the impact of major hurricanes on his synagogue — the Bagels are impressed (so far) with the nuance and care displayed in the drama's Jewish characters. Later, Erin and Esther celebrate Adam Sandler and fall into yet another rabbit hole of utterly random predictions for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5. Hold onto your butts, it's gonna be a wild episode!
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
Haggadot.com
Chat GPT Haggadah (Haggadot): https://www.haggadot.com/haggadah/chat-gpt-haggadah
Schitt's Creek Haggadah: https://www.haggadot.com/haggadah/schitt-s-creek-haggadah-1
Heroes Haggadah: https://www.haggadot.com/haggadah/heroes-haggadah
Extrapolations - Daveed Diggs in the Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/features/daveed-diggs-interview-extrapolations-hamilton-b2298224.html
Adam Sandler gets the Mark Twain Prize: CNN teaser for event, which aired March 26: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oX9O2fmteuU
Trailer, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel S. 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nyujqc01ujE
The Oscars were this last weekend, and Erin and Esther obviously have thoughts. From Jamie Lee Curtis' win to Erin not caring so much that Steven Spielberg lost, they cover the Jewy and not so Jewy moments.
The Bagels also pay tribute to the late Chaim Topol, and look ahead to the Jewishness of "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" and Daveed Diggs' role as a rabbi facing climate change in a new AppleTV+ show. Don't forget to thank the Academy on your way to The Bagel Report's afterparty.
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
18 Things About Shazam's Asher Angel:https://www.heyalma.com/18-things-to-know-about-jewish-actor-asher-angel/
Extrapolations Trailer on AppleTV+: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QP-xrG0kZk&t=131s
Oscar voters spill their tea: ew.com/award...-picks
Adam Goldberg in "The Equalizer:" https://www.jta.org/2023/03/09/culture/in-episode-of-cbs-the-equalizer-adam-goldberg-tackles-antisemitic-hate-crimes-in-brooklyn
Schmigadoon! season 2 trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBn4jL4xKNw
Greet this week's newy and Jewy moments as the Bagels break down the pointless Maisel non-trailer; discuss the ADL’s new Entertainment Leadership Council; consider the Hallmark movie Made for Each Other (which features a golem, naturally); and examine the long-awaited History of the World: Part II, including our favorite "shpiely" sketches and whose voices seem to be missing from the enormous cast.
Plus: Esther airs concerns about scatological humor and Erin tries to make "Ashkeforward" happen.
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Malina’s article about the ADL: https://variety.com/2023/biz/news/adl-council-antisemitism-netflix-paramount-1235544082/
Schwarzenegger video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsETTn7DehI
Made for Each Other: https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/made-for-each-other
Maisel teaser: https://www.imdb.com/videoplayer/vi3419587609
Marc Maron’s special on HBO https://www.hbo.com/movies/marc-maron-from-bleak-to-dark#:~:text=TV%2DMA%20%7C%20comedy%20%7C%201%20HR%205%20MIN%20%7C%202023&text=%E2%80%8BLegendary%20comedian%20and%20podcaster,New%20York%20City's%20Town%20Hall.
Patton Oswalt’s special https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hZi5QaMBFc
AMC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiEeIxZJ9x0
Brous AMC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rs8BH0f6ClU
Top Secret https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5zen7sHQFI
Hayehudim Baim - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y87ps1A62m8
What do Jewish women think about how Jewish women are portrayed on TV? With help from an expert — Dr. Samantha Pickett, professor and author of Peak TV’s Unapologetic Jewish Woman: Exploring Jewish Female Representation in Contemporary Television Comedy — the Bagels explore the types and stereotypes of Jewish women’s representation on TV.
There’s plenty to talk about, from Rhoda Morgenstern on "Mary Tyler Moore" to the strangely functional characters of “The O.C.”; from Jewish-insider language at “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” to the varied Jewish women of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Plus, they’ll be deconstructing Susie Essman characters within the context of “Broad City” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
Is it even possible to have a characterization of Jewish women that will please everyone? What do you think? Email us at thebagelreport@gmail.com
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
LINKS:
Buy Samantha’s book — it’s an academic textbook, so it’s more expensive than most, but you can use this special code at this website to get a discount. CODE: LXFANDF30
https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781793633156/Peak-TV%E2%80%99s-Unapologetic-Jewish-Woman-Exploring-Jewish-Female-Representation-in-Contemporary-Television-Comedy
Follow her @sampickette on Twitter
After the fully loaded nachos of Superbowl Sunday and any heart-shaped candy you might have consumed on Valentine's Day, it's time for the Bagels to get back to their Newy and Jewy pop culture rundown and speed round of upcoming stories.
Get our review of Superbowl commercial highlights and a deep dive on what Esther and Erin are looking for in their rom-coms.
This episode of The Bagel Report is sponsored by the Jewish Film Institute, whose WinterFest event is coming up Feb. 25-26 at the Vogue Theater in San Francisco.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Links:
All the Superbowl ads: https://tvline.com/lists/best-worst-super-bowl-commercials-2023/tubi/
Paul Rudd and son video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtvVi3Z89Dc
Your Place or Mine (Netflix) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JyfgkPMXk0
Wedding Singer (HBO Max/TNT/TBS) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy-TwYB1UQw
50 First Dates (Peacock)
My Big Fat Greek Wedding (HBOMax) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2mecmDFE-Q
Kissing Jessica Stein (Hulu) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vc3bnMSk7SI
80 for Brady (in theaters) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UeGXB2NjR8
Carole King’s WashPo in memoriam of Burt Bacharach
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/02/10/carole-king-burt-bacharach-songwriting/
Poker Face (Peacock) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4x2NzusLAqk
Reboot (Hulu) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4x2NzusLAqk
After seeing it opening weekend in theaters and then again on Netflix amid a swirl of wildly inconsistent reviews, the Bagels become review people taking on "You People," the cringey romcom (cringe-com?) starring Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Eddie Murphy and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Overall observations, questions about content choices and missed opportunities to explore faith, meaning and connection. As the Bagels cruise through a million hot takes on "You People" from all corners, keep your ears peeled for terms like "consensus-building," "calling in vs. calling out," "the oppression Olympics," and "zero-sum game." The discourse is THICK this week!
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Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Selected reactions to "You People":
* https://people.com/podcasts/people-every-day-podcast/lauren-london-jewish-roots-you-people/
* https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/you-people-netflix-55-million-hours-viewed-opening-weekend-1235508210/
* https://www.buzzfeed.com/morganmurrell/you-people-netflix-twitter-reactions
* https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/arts-letters/articles/you-people-antisemitism
* https://jweekly.com/2023/01/31/you-people-is-a-step-back-for-black-jewish-relations-worse-its-not-even-funny/
* https://www.jta.org/2023/02/01/culture/netflixs-you-people-wasnt-funny-at-all-to-my-black-and-mexican-jewish-family
Dialogue and representation organizations:
* https://blackjewishentalliance.com/
* https://mjnewground.org/
Reactions to Farrakhan's claims:
* www.washingtonpost.com/archi...avery/
* https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/jews-and-the-african-slave-trade/
Previous Bagel Reports:
* https://jweekly.com/2023/02/03/bagels-on-set-talking-you-people-with-its-jewish-consultant-todd-shotz/
* https://www.spreaker.com/user/jewfolk/background-bagels
People certainly do have opinions about "You People," the interracial, interfaith Netflix romcom scripted by Kenya Barris and Jonah Hill. But we're putting reviews on hold (tune in next week!) to go behind the scenes with Todd Shotz, the Jewish consultant on this controversial production.
He's also a film producer and founder of the b'nai mitzvah prep company Hebrew Helpers. How did Todd land this gig? How did he advise the producers on creating the big Yom Kippur scene from the beginning of the movie? And why is there a Yiddish consultant in the credits, but no Yiddish scene in the movie?
This episode of The Bagel Report is sponsored by the Jewish Film Institute, whose WinterFest event is coming up Feb. 25-26 at the Vogue Theater in San Francisco.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Other links for this episode:
Background Bagels — our episode last year recapping our days as background actors
Hebrew Helpers
Recipe for Change
The Grotto (film)
Lazy Eye (film)
Latter Day Jew (film)
Kevin Misher (You People producer)
The Oscar nominations are here! In this week's Bagel Report, the Bagels break down nomination trends, talk about Jewish nominees (as well as films they just enjoyed), and speculate about why "She Said" was left out of the awards conversation.
They're also talking about "The Fabelmans," what's Newy (an Amy Winehouse biopic!) and Jewy (Josh Malina, always), and a speed round of stories ranging from a movie for Holocaust Remembrance Day to a possible extension of the Shtisel-verse. Plus, just for fun, how a Jewish "SNL" star is rescuing M&Ms.
This episode is sponsored by the Jewish Film Institute, whose WinterFest event is coming up Feb. 25-26 at the Vogue Theater in San Francisco.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
Articles referenced in this episode:
Forward article about Josh Malina
Jodi’s Oscar Blog
2MovieJews
Oscars roundup @ J.
Miriam Haart
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Shochten
Maya Rudolph M&Ms spokesperson
Join the Bagels as they take a deep dive (with some spoilers, so watch first, then listen!) into Hunters Season 2. The gang is now in Argentina looking for Hitler — so the Bagels are pondering the proper punishment for a genocidal maniac, examining the line between vigilantes and heroes, and wondering about why this series grabbed us and wouldn't let us go. We'll tell you about TV shows featuring pop songs in Hebrew and Yiddish; what might be happening to the movie Maestro; plus some quick mentions of the Mandalorian and Fauda. You might call this episode a bit of an "everything Bagel" Report. With more to come in the weeks ahead!
DISCLAIMER: Hunters references 11 million people who died in the Holocaust (6 million Jews plus 5 million others). But there's an issue – that number was invented by famous Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal to create more sympathy for Jews.
Here's more on the 11 million figure, which we look forward to discussing in the weeks ahead: https://www.jta.org/2017/01/31/united-states/remember-the-11-million-why-an-inflated-victims-tally-irks-holocaust-historians
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
More links:
Esther's Hunters article in J: https://jweekly.com/2020/02/21/in-hunters-al-pacino-and-his-gang-of-vigilantes-target-nazis-in-1970s-america/
"Say Shalom to My Little Friends" TBR's first Hunters episode: http://tinyurl.com/bagel-hunters
Variety piece about Hebrew "Fight Song": https://variety.com/2023/music/news/hebrew-version-fight-song-fleishman-is-in-trouble-1235488452/
The Jewish Experience at TCM: https://www.tcm.com/articles/Programming-Article/021714/special-theme-the-jewish-experience
The Bagel Report is launching season 2 starting this Friday, now supported by J. The Jewish News of Northern California.
Connect with us on socials!
Twitter: @estherk, @ebenmoche and @TheBagelReport
Instagram: @estherkustanowitz, @ebenmoche and @tbrthepod
Email us at: thebagelreport@gmail.com
It's a high-low cultural extravaganza that includes everything from Spielberg's “The Fablemans” to the newest season of “My Unorthodox Life.” David Baddiel's "Jews Don't Count" is a UK documentary special based on his book; we have a brief rundown. Plus, why aren't people going to see "She Said"? And does anyone have Peacock? And if so, are they watching "The Calling," a police procedural featuring a Jewish detective? And as the year closes, the Bagels have some year-end notes and appreciation to share...with some exciting things coming in 2023. Thank you to all the listeners: here's to more in the new year!
This week the Bagels are joined by actor Adam Busch, one of the stars of the new Hulu Hanukkah film "Menorah in the Middle." This episode has everything: childhood Hanukkah traditions, the Talmud, Jewish geography, learning about Christian de la Fuerte, and a wide-ranging discussion of whether "an awareness of duality" is a Jewish trait.
After a rough few weeks, people are showing their support for Jews in big and small ways! Taylor Swift swiftly corrected her tour schedule to include non-Shabbat dates, and Amy Schumer wore her Judaism on SNL. The Bagels are in trouble for not having read "Fleishman's In Trouble" in advance of its premiere on Hulu next week, and are anticipating the end of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" by suggesting spinoffs for our favorite characters. It's fall folks so Erin has decided it's sweater weather in L.A, and Esther makes the case for "Manifest"'s hidden Jewish concepts. Plus, an existential question about artists' obligations to their work and to their fans.
Therapy is now in session as Erin makes a confession, Esther absolves, and Steve Carell flashes back to Jewish moments in his life in "The Patient." Then we break down "Do Revenge" and wonder why the villain is wearing a Magen David necklace. "Cobra Kai" goes to Shul to hornswoggle the Jewish sensei. Later, the bagels enjoy the actors and fun self-skewering of "Reboot." Since the High Holy Days are right around the corner, Esther and Erin bring TV characters to shul, and recommend Jewy things to watch for High Holy Days-themed entertainment. Shana Tova from the Bagel Report!
Therapy is now in session as Erin makes a confession, Esther absolves, and Steve Carell flashes back to Jewish moments in his life in "The Patient." Then we break down "Do Revenge" and wonder why the villain is wearing a Magen David necklace. "Cobra Kai" goes to Shul to hornswoggle the Jewish sensei. Later, the bagels enjoy the actors and fun self-skewering of "Reboot." Since the High Holy Days are right around the corner, Esther and Erin bring TV characters to shul, and recommend Jewy things to watch for High Holy Days-themed entertainment. Shana Tova from the Bagel Report!
The Jeopardy category is JEWISH PODCASTS. Fresh from the Celebrity Jeopardy studio audience, Esther and Erin jump into the intricacies of trying to make Sabra happen. It has barely been a week since Marvel announced that Israeli actress Shira Haas is playing Israeli superhero Sabra, and the world is on fire with controversy. Esther and Erin go down the anxiety rabbit hole about this announcement, wonder what having an Israeli superhero in the MCU might mean and what Marvel is thinking. Erin gets animated about how American Jews do or don't talk about Israel; Esther makes an impression of a car speeding away and makes up a fake sponsor for the episode. The Bagels anticipate the arrival of The Storybergs, er, The Fabelmans by Stevie Shtetlheimer (a. k.a. Steven Spielberg). Plus, the return of our speedier-than-usual Speed Round, covering: Armageddon Time, What We Do in the Shadows, Counting Crows in Israel, and a new Israeli reality show about Haredi women. The Bagel Report remains your only podcast likely to give shoutouts to Paper Bag Dramatics, George Lucas in Love, and a Bracha Bee all in one episode!
The Jeopardy category is JEWISH PODCASTS. Fresh from the Celebrity Jeopardy studio audience, Esther and Erin jump into the intricacies of trying to make Sabra happen. It has barely been a week since Marvel announced that Israeli actress Shira Haas is playing Israeli superhero Sabra, and the world is on fire with controversy. Esther and Erin go down the anxiety rabbit hole about this announcement, wonder what having an Israeli superhero in the MCU might mean and what Marvel is thinking. Erin gets animated about how American Jews do or don't talk about Israel; Esther makes an impression of a car speeding away and makes up a fake sponsor for the episode. The Bagels anticipate the arrival of The Storybergs, er, The Fabelmans by Stevie Shtetlheimer (a. k.a. Steven Spielberg). Plus, the return of our speedier-than-usual Speed Round, covering: Armageddon Time, What We Do in the Shadows, Counting Crows in Israel, and a new Israeli reality show about Haredi women. The Bagel Report remains your only podcast likely to give shoutouts to Paper Bag Dramatics, George Lucas in Love, and a Bracha Bee all in one episode!
At The Bagel Report, anything can happen: like learning about human behavior and Jewish ethics with Nathan Fielder on "The Rehearsal" which leads to a conversation about how to clone Hitler. Erin is anticipating Nick Kroll’s new standup special and although she's under a reviewer embargo, Esther can't wait for "Reboot," starring Rachel Bloom and Paul Reiser. Plus, a convo about which sitcoms from our respective youths we would reboot. Erin unexpectedly comes down hard on actors doubling themselves for roles. Plus, [Seinfeld voice] what is the deal with Larry David?
At The Bagel Report, anything can happen: like learning about human behavior and Jewish ethics with Nathan Fielder on "The Rehearsal" which leads to a conversation about how to clone Hitler. Erin is anticipating Nick Kroll’s new standup special and although she's under a reviewer embargo, Esther can't wait for "Reboot," starring Rachel Bloom and Paul Reiser. Plus, a convo about which sitcoms from our respective youths we would reboot. Erin unexpectedly comes down hard on actors doubling themselves for roles. Plus, [Seinfeld voice] what is the deal with Larry David?
Only icons and no lame-os in this new episode. Erin and Esther share their reflections on iconic singer/actress Olivia Newton-John, from "Grease" to "Physical" to "Two of a Kind." Erin tells Esther about Nathan Fielder's very Jewish episode of "The Rehearsal," and Esther tries to sum up "The Sandman" and invokes "The Booth at the End." Plus, disappointment is shared over the Netflix version of "13" and anticipating the Jewish representation in "Never Have I Ever" season 3.
From Adam Sandler's new bat mitzvah movie to 1"3: The Musical: The Movie" (both coming to Netflix), the Jewish coming of age ritual is taking center stage. Erin breaks down Jason Robert Brown's contributions to musical theater, while Esther wants to know more about the Jewish meaning in both of these movies. Erin drops knowledge about Josh Peck and Esther appreciates the education. Inspired by P!nk's newest song and video, "Irrelevant," the Bagels talk about the connections between art and politics; how culture can create empowerment and activism; how people should use their pulpits, and what people expect from their Jewish community. Check out some links! Pink's Jewish Life 13 The Movie Musical Jewish Emmys nods
This week we talk about....everything, including a madcap review of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) Phase 4. Mostly Ms. Marvel and her fascinating background, delightfully constructed world, and her particular resonance for people with immigration stories in their family history. Mel Brooks makes headway toward becoming the 2000-year-old man. Transparent comes to LA —as a musical, of course—to display complicated families and secular Jewish meaning on stage in 2023. Erin—now post-wedding and post-COVID—goes full Broadway in explaining the Beanie-Lea Michele fight over Funny Girl and why Broadway was unfair to Beanie. Natalie Portman's upcoming new Jewy (non-Thor) role and more!
The Bagels are talking about Bradley Cooper's nose this week-- and how his Leonard Bernstein impression has set the internet ablaze in prosthetic controversy. We also talk about why Obi-Wan Kenobi may or may not be like Moses. Speaking of Moses, Obi-Wan Kenobi actor Moses Ingram has become the target of racist fan rage, which we do not approve of. Strange Jewish things are emerging from Stranger Things this season and of course, Esther caught it. Big Bagel appreciation goes out to celebrity Jews Jamie Lee Curtis, Liev Schreiber, Seth Rogen and Lauren Miller Rogen for their work in honor and memory of their ancestors. The Bagels also remember George Shapiro, who is responsible for bringing us so much comedy over the years, and looking forward to Erin's wedding; she's basically the opposite of a Bridezilla.
Stranger Things Season 2 is on Netflix
Obi-Wan is on Disney+
Just because "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" is between seasons doesn't mean we're not going to talk about the recent casting notice looking for "Jewish types," or what it means that there are scenes in the upcoming season set in Israel. This week, Esther gives a light review of "The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem" and Erin makes a case for Randall as the Jewish sibling in "This Is Us." Plus, Esther engages in a discussion of when "Star Wars" Day actually is and explores some of "Star Wars'" Jewish elements in honor of Shabbat Shabobiwan as Erin politely nods and smiles.
With so much content hitting theaters, networks, and streamers, we had to make some hard choices about what to cover in our first pod after our unintentional hiatus. Esther confronts her "WeCrashed" issues; Erin gets frustrated by missed Jewish opportunities in Marvel's "MoonKnight" series. Both take a moment to appreciate "Grace & Frankie" and how they show new paths into friendship while growing older. Plus, Erin and Esther are happy to be back onboard "Russian Doll's" regressive therapy train to take apart the new season until we reach the vulnerable inner child at the center.
This week, Erin and Esther noted a new trend in storytelling: Girls and women coming of age. "Encanto" and "Turning Red" (Disney+) narrow the lens further with ethnic specificity, which doesn't stop either from being relevant regardless of cultural identity. Plus, some initial talk about Amy Schumer's new series "Life and Beth" (Hulu); "Heritage Day" featuring two of our fave "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" alumni; and the cartoon in live-action that is Jared Leto playing an Israeli in WeCrashed (AppleTV+).
A magician is suddenly a hypnotist and changes everything! Imogene is Dody! Moishe falls off a barstool! This week the bagels recap the highs and lows of the last few episodes of Amazon’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Esther and Erin try to find all their words and mostly succeed in their recap and make a few guesses about the final season. Also, in case we still have listeners who don't watch Maisel, loving “Better Things” leaning into the Jewyness, wondering why Hollywood is all-in on Jared Leto and made him an Israeli con-man in “WeCrashed,” and a quick mini-review of the play “TRAYF,” now at the Geffen Playhouse in L.A.
This week, the Bagels reflect on Ukraine, recap "CODA" moments at the SAG Awards, understand the many layers of Larry David after he canceled/ postponed his own HBO special, and dissect John Mulaney’s sober SNL patchwork musical, including those Fiddler Jews. Later, during Maisel Moments, they psychoanalyze Midge’s urge to drag everyone into progress whether they like it or not. They also praise Susie’s eulogy tour de force and — unfortunately for Esther —offer another “What’s going on with Joel” segment. Stay connected with The Bagel Report on social @thebagelreport, on Instagram @TBRthepod, and by email at thebagelreport@gmail.com
This week Esther and Erin sing out Broadway-style with special guest Anita Silvert, co-host of the Broadway-meets-Jewish-texts podcast VERSES. From Bibliodrama to Limmud to camp and school plays, the trio gets dramatic and musical, talking about the enduring power of musical theater. After saying goodbye to Anita, it's a Bagel Breakdown of the first two new episodes of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," in what may or may not be a returning segment called Moments of Maisel. Or the Bagel Breakdown. We’re still deciding.
As this episode drops into the world, so do the first new episodes of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" in two years. This week, we've got recaps and predictions for Season 4 (with reviews of new episodes coming next week and in our first IG Live on Feb 18). Esther delights in one of the new episodes' titles, and Erin tells us why some people call her "Maisel." Before we remember Midge, Susie and the gang, we head through some newy and Jewy TV shows coming up from HBO and Israel, and more.
The Oscar nominations are here, Charlotte York Goldenblatt's child became a Jewish adult (or did they?), and there's a whole lot that's Newy & Jewy (bam copyright). And Erin and Esther have feelings about all of it, (over)analyzing "And Just Like That"'s Jewish coming-of-age ritual and sharing their bat mitzvah experiences, thinking about how to anchor this moment in a child's life in meaning and identity beyond the binary/traditional. And, pop culture moments that are good, bad and meh for the Jews.
After taking a spin through celebrity genealogy with Pamela Adlon and Kathryn Hahn who co-starred in the latest episode of "Finding Your Roots," the Bagels tackle Jewish erasure in "How I Met Your Mother/Father" and in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (in advance of the forthcoming "Moon Knight" TV show on Disney+). Plus, the Bagels get fashiony (is that how we say it?) and talk about Zendaya's Hebrew dress, Jeff Goldblum's Chasidic couture, and how David Beckham's son has a possibly very Jewish wedding coming up.
Years ago, "The Wonder Years" featured a bar mitzvah episode; it was one of the most prominent examples of on-screen Jewish ritual done well. Now "The Wonder Years" has been rebooted, and aired a bar mitzvah episode of its own. So we're thrilled to welcome special guest Yael Galena—who wrote the episode!—for the inside scoop about creating this instantly-famous episode. While celebrating the love and unusually positive feedback from the Jewish community surrounding the show, we talk about how the writers used subtlety and subtext to convey difference, and what goes into selecting a Torah portion for a fictional character. Plus, dissecting the family influences (twin brothers!) and school snacks (the full tomato!) that powered her development as a comedy writer.
The Bagels spend some time remembering Bob Saget's legacy as a standup comedian, "Full House"'s Danny Tanner and host of "America's Funniest Home Videos." Lots of recommendations this week, from Esther's guest-podding on the "Law & Order: S-Re-View" podcast to talk about their Jewy episode (starring Jason Biggs, of course) and Erin recommends some MLK and Tu Bishvat-themed movies that can be helpful in teaching kids about racism and environmentalism. Plus, an awards season so confusing it will turn your teeth Jewish. Yes, we'll explain that, but no, that's not a thing, and yes, it did launch a discussion about who can tell Jewish jokes. Watch Esther's appearance on "Law & Order: S-Re-View" podcast here!
The Bagels kick-off 2022 by facing a different kind of entertainment awards season, with barely-there Golden Globes and other awards shows scrambling to recalibrate because of Omicron. Erin and Esther discuss the 'Jewface' conversation which hit the UK theater scene, and how Harry Potter unexpectedly took a central role in this week's conversation, thanks to Emma Watson and Jon Stewart. Esther and Erin are kicking off the new year with a new email address (thebagelreport@gmail.com) and IG account (TBRthepod), so hit them up with your comments, questions and pop-culture requests!
After a week away, Esther and Erin get into the pop culture/Jewy content zone, talking about Spiderman: No Way Home and the Jewy lessons of the multiverse; overanalyzing West Side Story and celebrating Rita Moreno; and musing about Larry David's sacred cow tipping at Curb Your Enthusiasm's visit to Holocaust Museum L.A.. And in lieu of end-of-year listicles, the Bagels decide what to take and toss from 2021: and why they're (mostly) down on Don't Look Up. Stay well, TBR nation, and we'll see you on the other side of 2021!! Searching for context after binging Israeli-Norwegian hostage drama 'The Girl from Oslo' A whistleblower brings an end to Curb Your Enthusiasm’s 11th season Another Israeli hit about Haredi Jews, but this one’s funny Malina Saval's 'Curb' Thread
This week, the Bagels meet "Baking It" Judge, Bubbe Norma. 36 years ago, she did standup; now she's a judge on a holiday baking competition show that's produced by Amy Poehler. Norma Zager is our guest and shares some of her varied experiences. From stories about growing up in Detroit to having successfully sold jokes to Joan Rivers, "Bubbe Norma" talks about the importance of food, Jewish community and having a sense of humor. Plus, why she thinks "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" may have stolen her bit.
This episode has lots of New York and a little North Pole...After starting with some words about Sondheim's impact on Broadway and culture in general, the Bagels enjoy the morsels of Maisel that have been dropped to satisfy fans before the show's February premiere on Amazon Prime. Erin leads Esther to consider the possibility of a Maisel multiverse while Esther recaps panels from November's Vulture Festival. HBOMax's "And Just Like That..." reminds us of the worst parts of "Sex & the City" while missing opportunities for meaning-making, but we're still on the lookout for Jewish content. Plus, some developing thoughts about why the Sarah Silverman/Seth Rogen HBOMax series "Santa Inc." might be getting such a cold reception.
Just in time to say farewell to Thanksgivukkah, the Bagels are back to talk about Paul Rudd, Larry David, “Tick, Tick… Boom!” and "deep-cut Judaism." Plus, the debut of our "TVGoneJewy Mailbag." Later, Erin identifies the need to learn more about non-Ashkenazi approaches to holiday food, and Esther is grateful for a world full of Jewy TV mentions. Happy Hanukkah to all our listeners!
Annie Korzen, actress, storyteller and octogenarian TikTok sensation, joins us to talk about her favorite subject: herself. We talk about her time on “Seinfeld,” her latest role in "The Shrink Next Door,” tawking like an awthentic New Yawker, and playing Jewish stereotypes; and how admiring Leslie Jordan's Instagram got her thinking about how to create a presence in the social media space. Plus, what she finds offensive about “An American Pickle" and inspirational about Barbra Streisand.
Annie's TikTok Website and storytelling show
The Bagels host speaker, author and rabbi Ma Nishtana in a wide-ranging conversation about creating a more inclusive and welcoming Jewish community - from challenging the assumptions we make around what Jews look like to the difference between trying to be and actually being welcoming to Jews of color. Plus, responding to the larger conversation about diverse Jewish representation in pop culture. And we talk about Ma Nishtana's upcoming Torah commentary and anthology; his vision of God; and why there's no such thing as "Jewish food."
Follow Ma Nishtana on Instagram, Twitter and website! Seth Furst's Amazon page DropoutTV's live D&D - Dimension 20 TribeHerald Jews and werewolves article
This week, the Bagels recap "Curb Your Enthusiasm’s” Jewy season start; "The Nanny" as an anchor in the conversation about Jewish representation on TV; and the collective apology we all owe to Monica Lewinsky after watching "The Impeachment.” In honor of the 50th anniversary of movie-musical "Fiddler on the Roof,” Erin and Esther discuss the roots of Jewish geography Anatevka while they recast the classic for 2022 and beyond.
This week's melange of media includes Nora Ephron Autumn, Rachel Bloom's upcoming projects and what it would take for media programming to help curb antisemitism. Plus, Esther sort of spoils a movie that's been out since 1999 and Erin brainstorms about Jewy Halloween costumes. Finally, Esther gets to talk about "Supernatural," and Erin introduces her new Halloween-themed segment.
Relevant Links:
Werewolf Bar Mitzvah
PaleyImpact: The Role of Entertainment and Social Media in Combating Antisemitism Hunters Season 2
Buffy the Vampire Slayer- Halloween episode Hey Alma's Jewish take on Nancy Drew Adam Rose dancing "Supernatural" Everybody Hates Hitler
Is the Academy Museum erasing or omitting Jews from the Hollywood narrative? Erin and Esther make some recommendations for a Jewish exhibition at the new L.A. museum and consider what Mel Brooks might include in his upcoming "History of the World Part II." Plus, the bagels talk about William Shatner going to actual space; the Star Trek exhibit at L.A.'s Skirball Cultural Center; Jewish space lasers; Jewish astronauts; and Dave Chappelle pitching a project called "Space Jews." Plus they talk about actress Sarah Podemski ("Reservation Dogs") and her Jewish and Native background.
Erin and Esther had a star-studded Hollywood adventure weekend! They served as extras in a synagogue scene for a Netflix movie; visited the new Academy Museum; and brunched with celebrities to benefit Second Nurture’s efforts to support people who are fostering/adopting children. This episode also contains more representation conversations, and discussion of Sarah Silverman's recent comments about non-Jewish actors playing Jews. Erin comes down hard on the new "Rugrats" reboot on Paramount+ and Esther manages a speed round that's actually speedy for once.
Is a sukkah made of bagels acceptable in Jewish law? It is in Jewish podcast law! Welcome to the virtual sukkah lovefest as the Bagels welcome special guests (ushPODzin!)—and Jewy writers' room-in-formation—Jodi and Yechiel from the 2MovieJews podcast. Looking at the whole world through a Jewy lens, the foursome pitches concepts for Sukkot-themed movies and TV shows. Later, they share their celebrity Sukkot guest lists in a modern interpretation of Ushpizin, the invocation of ancestors as Sukkah guests.
Follow 2MovieJews on social media @jodibee (@jodibeek on Instagram), @yakhoffman and @2MovieJews.
Follow Erin and Esther on social media @estherK, @ebenmoche and @thebagelreport.
In honor of Yom Kippur, Esther and Erin are asking TV characters to apologize to other characters/audiences/The Bagel Report itself, and the co-hosts admit that they may need to repent for their comments about "Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist." Plus, the movement around #CancelTheActivist; a new Jewish superhero; looking for Jews on "Grey’s Anatomy"; defining what Teshuvah (repentance) looks like for Midge Maisel and more.
Judd Nelson is Jewish!
Vu Le Article
Rachel Sumekh/SwipeOut Hunger/The Activist
Advot Project's lessons on Teshuvah
PJ Grisar’s article about Whistle
It's our last episode of the old Jewish year, so it's time for the Bagels to get real about spiritual resolutions and think about how our lives have changed since last year: Esther takes us on a tour of her complicated brainspace and Erin talks about her new beginnings and what she's looking forward to. Plus, saying goodbye to Ed Asner and 5781, New Year's puns and some bad, partially improvised parody lyrics to recap the year that was with its plethora of Jewish content and opportunities for pop-culture-infused Jewish meaning. https://jewishjournal.com/judaism/190337/simanim-signs-new-year/ (2016) https://www.hebrewhelpers.com/welcome-to-the-80s-the-5780s/ (2019)
High Holy Days prep meets pop culture as Esther and Erin become your content sommeliers, sharing their TV and movie recommendations with ties to the themes of the season. From Kvetching to Kibbitzing, this episode is both Marvelous and Magnificent, and contains Maisels and Meyersons and Meyerowitzes, oh my... Plus, some super-early talk about that "other holiday season." Yes, in August. All the holidays are coming early this year...
A celebration of young Jewish actors Ben Platt and Beanie Feldstein becomes a conversation about the power dynamics of the Clinton scandal, plus appreciating Monica Lewinsky and her anti-bullying activism. After four new episodes of Grace & Frankie, Erin and Esther talk about its Jewy moments including mohels and circumcisions again, plus our most favorite new made-up Jewish holiday of M'Challah. And a special look back at our favorite Bagel Report episodes as we celebrate episode number 50. Link to trailer of ACS: Impeachment Ben Platt album and Dear Evan Hansen trailer Monica Lewinsky on Twitter TED Talk Follow and connect with us on social media @estherk, @ebenmoche and on Twitter and Facebook @TheBagelReport
What if everything was different? Inspired by Marvel's new animated show "What If...", Erin and Esther explore pop culture moments that could have been, especially if shows like Friends and Seinfeld had leaned into their Jewishness, or away from the typical Hollywood ending. From the midrash of Marvel to the inciting incidents and nexus events that inspire us to make big or small life changes, the Bagels consider their own what-ifs as the new Jewish year approaches.
Watch Kiryat Moriah scene from "Friends" Which version do you like best? "The Wizard of Oz" melting or Mel Brook's? Follow and connect with us on social media @estherk @ebenmoche and on Twitter and Facebook @TheBagelReport
Scarlett Johansson's lawsuit against Disney is also about how creatives are paid for their work, but is it also about the Torah? How does the not-Jewish Ted Lasso's midwestern optimism fit into a Jewish context? The Bagels also hope for mother-daughter drama around a Sex and the City bat mitzvah and wonder whether SATC and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel characters will have grown and learned from their mistakes when we see them next. Plus, a Kvell about our former guest, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series actor/singer Julia Lester!
Follow us and connect with us on social @estherk, @ebenmoche and on Twitter and Facebook @TheBagelReport.
Erin and Esther are back, with new AirPods and opinions about everything from Marvel to Netflix’ “My Unorthodox Life.” Was “Black Widow” a Soviet Jew? (No, but that won't stop Esther from posing the theoretical question.) Why is “Grey's Anatomy” helpful in alleviating Erin's wedding planning stress? And why won't Jews calm down about “My Unorthodox Life?” Let's get into it.
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Read more of Esther's content about "My Unorthodox Life" below!
Is ‘My Unorthodox Life’ bad for the Jews? Hollywood Jews weigh in
‘My Unorthodox Life’: Hasidic TV trend gets reality treatment
After briefly breaking down the Oscars, the Bagels compare it to the Jewish community after COVID (of course) and wonder if the trailers for "In The Heights"and "West Side Story"are too similar. Erin's looking forward to the Steven Spielberg remake of "West Side Story;" Esther's looking forward to being less confused about where to find which movies and TV shows. Erin invents the term "platon-com" to describe the upcoming Tiffany Haddish & Billy Crystal movie, "Here Today." The upcoming season of "Never Have I Ever" (created by Mindy Kaling) renews the conversation about Jewish stereotyping and invoking the Holocaust; and we talk about Erin's favorite interview subject Mandy Patinkin's discovery on "Finding Your Roots." Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
What do shivas and b'nai mitzvah have in common? Bagels, of course, and this week, it's the new films "Shiva Baby" and "Donny's Bar Mitzvah" that are getting The Bagel Report treatment. While one film is subtle and intense, the other takes caricature to 11. The Bagels review them both and reflect on their own b'nai mitzvah and shiva experiences. Esther wants more character and content and less caricature, while Erin looks back on her Detroit-area bat mitzvah years with nostalgia and horror. Plus, the pair reflect on their Passover experiences, talk about the popularity of the "'Schitt's Creek' Haggadah" and get into some "Shtisel," which Erin still can't sit down and watch.
**Links:** -Check out Esther's "Schitt's Creek" Haggadah -From ‘Shtisel’ to ‘Tiger King,’ the secret TV bingeing pleasures of America’s Jewish clergy "Shiva Baby" "Donny's Bar Mitzvah" "On the Spectrum" **Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!**
Sorry listeners, Esther and Erin don't have time to recap the 4-hour-long Snyder Cut this week because they have to prepare for Passover!!! Realizing they're still not ready, they stall and talk about Passover's past and share traditions, stories, special foods and other influences that define the holiday for their respective families. They also discuss crossover possibilities between Passover and popular culture. Later they take a moment to remember their colleague, entertainment writer Gerri Miller, who died on March 14. Links Night at the Museum clip Easy Farfel Muffin Recipe Remembering Gerri Miller Stop AAPI Hate Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
The Bagels welcome Julia Lester, one of the stars of "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series." After some getting-to-know-you conversations and Jewish geography, we talk about her character Ashlyn on the Disney+ reboot and what it's like to be a part of the 15-year-old franchise. Erin geeks out with Julia over a cappella connections and Esther does her best to understand nostalgia for a show she never watched. Plus, a speed round of questions delving into favorite Broadway shows, bat mitzvah themes and beyond!! Relevant Links: "Wondering" Music Video "HSMTMTS" Season 1 Trailer Hanukkah Medley from "High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special" Follow Julia Lester on Instagram and Twitter! Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
After acknowledging the first anniversary of COVID hitting America, the Bagels are not getting ready for the Holiday of Matzah and are reviewing the Golden Globes. From virtual awards shows to what's newy and Jewy, Esther and Erin explore pop culture through their particular Jewish lens: highlighting the career of Shira Haas, sending good wishes to Gal Gadot & looking forward to the return of "Shtisel'' in late March. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Everybody knows Stan Lee, but nobody knows Stan Lee— except people like critically-acclaimed writer Abraham Riesman, who has written a new book about the late Marvel Comics founder. Riesman joins the Bagels to discuss "True Believer: The Rise and Fall of Stan Lee," which shatters fans' assumptions about the life of the man who started out as Stanley Lieber.
Riesman also provides background on comic book fandom and culture, questions Jewish characters in Marvel universe and asks if we go too far in looking for Jewish themes and identity in comic book superheroes and their stories. Later, Esther talks trauma as a crucible for storytelling and Erin reveals a surprising turn in her "WandaVision" fandom.
Relavent Links:
Find his book here.
Follow Riesman on Twitter @abrahamjoseph
Check out his latest WandaVision Recaps here! Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Hold onto your invisible kippahs (especially while drinking water during the impeachment trial), because the Bagels are talking awards show nominations, challenging Hollywood to create more thoughtful Jewish portrayals, and wishing a mazal tov to Steven Spielberg on being named the Genesis Prize Laureate for 2021. Plus, Erin knows Broadway musicals so well that she can use the term "choreo," while Esther brainstorms about casting Julia Garner and Shira Haas as sisters in something. And this week's speed round might be the speediest yet! (Which is to say, not all that speedy, but speedier than usual, so we will take the win.) Finally, with Valentine's Day approaching, and since Esther's celebrating her nephew's bar mitzvah and Erin her brother's birthday virtually due to pandemic concerns, it's time to think differently about love. Sending big Bagel love to all our listeners! Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Proud Bostonian and all-around-rockstar Variety Features Editor Malina Saval joins the Bagels for a deep dive into Jewish representation and how our names and our accents mark us. It's not just where we're from but possibly who we become. Is the "Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" full of caricatures? What does it mean to "look Jewish"? And why "Let Them All Talk" is a deeply Jewish — and pandemic-relatable — film, even though it features non-Jewish women on a cruise. Plus, we'll brainstorm some storylines for the upcoming "Sex and the City" reboot, and discuss why Boston accents are hard to pull off and which actor nailed it best. Relevant Links: Hilaria Baldwin, Hollywood and the Honor of Having a Boston Accent Dunkin Donuts Commercial SNL "Smaht Pahk" Hyundai Commercial Rob Lowe on Sobriety Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
This week's title may sound like a verse from Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire," but it's only because it's packed with weekly pop-culture info! In a week that includes both Holocaust Remembrance Day and Tu Bishvat (Jewish Arbor Day), the Bagels remember their respective trips to Poland before awkwardlyconnecting it to a conversation about "WandaVision" and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Later, Esther and Erin discuss crossover pop culture neighborhoods and compatible universes and Erin reveals a love for "Happy Days" while Esther gives us the rundown on the newest Israeli streaming content. Also, a diversion into mayonnaise thanks to Amy Schumer, and why looking to Superbowl commercials as an annual event doesn't make sense anymore. Plus, should Esther and Erin do a video episode? Let us know by connecting with us!
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After some initial reflections on the Inauguration—in an episode recorded before Bernie Sanders became a coat-swaddled meme—the Bagels talk about Jewish rituals that mark moments of change. Erin is both bored by and getting costume inspiration from "Pretend It's a City," Netflix's Fran Lebowitz documentary series. Plus, a conversation about the new season of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" inspires an Esther tangent about how people get their names and which Jewish themes the series should tackle next. And in the Bagel Wishful Casting Department, tackling rumors about Sorkin's "I Love Lucy" film and a wish list of young Willy Wonkas.
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As a new year starts, the Bagels welcome back ultimate cinephile Jodi Berman Kustanovich (of bermanoscarblog.blogspot.com) for a report on the 365+ movies she saw in 2020. Topics include how increased access is great for movie lovers and "feeling seen" by streaming algorithms. Then Jodi announces her top 10 list (and Esther and Erin share their Top 5s from 2020). In summary, we're just three Jews standing in front of pop culture, asking it to love them.
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If only Erin and Esther had a wishing stone so they could wish "Wonder Woman 1984" was a better movie... too many villains, plots and loose threads (including one hyperactive golden lasso) made it a bit of a mess. But the Bagels had fun breaking it all down: from what Gal Gadot means as a symbol of Judaism and Israel to musings about how gender influences criticism of superhero movies, and finding cool ideas within the messy narrative. And while unpacking the theology and lessons of Pixar’s "Soul," Erin and Esther discover the truth within: we're all just little soul blobs looking for our purpose.
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In their year-end episode, the Bagels puzzle over advent calendars, debate the difference between diners and delis and muddle through the confusion over when "Shtisel's" third season will arrive on Netflix. Erin shares a rundown of new Hanukkah music (including two stars of the original production of 'Hamilton') and late-night sketches; meanwhile Esther "grinches" all over holiday content. Plus, an alternate career path for Gal Gadot in case Wonder Woman doesn't work out (although we hope it will!), and wishes for a new year that will be happy, healthy and, most importantly, not 2020. Relevant Links: -Seth Meyers and 'Jersey Goys' -To Play Dreidel At The White House Hanukkah Party This Year, You Have To Risk It All -Proof the Chanucorn is Real! -HSM Series’ Julia Lester, Larry Saperstein Perform Classics for Disney+ Holiday Special
-'Hamilton's' Daveed Diggs Writes a Hanukkah Song About Puppies Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
All of our Hanukkah dreams come true for this conversation with the prolific and brilliant Critics’ Choice Award winning actress, neuroscientist, author, mom and mogul-in-the-making Mayim Bialik. Mayim tells the Bagels about filming her new show "Call Me Kat" (Jan. 3 on FOX) during the pandemic and her "Breakdown" (new mental health podcast). Later they get into a conversation about non-Jewish actors playing Jewish roles and breaking down gender and body stereotypes in Hollywood. Plus, we ask Mayim a question she's never been asked in an interview before! Here's a hint: it's about her characters and Bat Mitzvah themes! Tune in for one interview with enough content to last all eight days of Hanukkah! Happy Hanukkah to all, and to all a good night. :) Follow Mayim Bialik on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @missmayim. Also check out her Youtube page. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
It was bound to happen: a full episode devoted to one of our favorites, Rachel Bloom, and her new book, "I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are." Reading this felt like a Disneyland ride through the author's head: Erin celebrated Rachel's honest truth-telling and fantastic brain, and Esther appreciated the book's balance of comedy and pain. After sharing ideas for an on-brand Rachel Bloom bat mitzvah, the bagels ponder the question should we name and shame the bullies, or deny that they have any power over us by ignoring them? "I Wanna Be Where the Normal People Are" is available wherever books are sold these days. Buy the book locally, here! (Not a paid advertisement, we just love her and want to promote strong successful Jewish women.) Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!*
Leading up to Thanksgiving, the Bagels are identifying what they're most grateful for: John Mulaney, the Jewish-adjacent comedian who recently played a Hillel event; Rachel Bloom, who has a new book out, and Zoom, which enables family connections while separated. Plus, the return of everyone's favorite Haredi TV drama, "Shtisel," and everyone's favorite adult animated show about puberty and adolescence, "Big Mouth." The Bagels then take an unexpected turn and discuss intermarriage while dabbling in some light analysis of "Fiddler on the Roof's" Tevye.
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This week, Erin and Esther talked Jewish community with Caroline Dorn and Ellie Klein Goldman, the newly-revealed co-authors of @RogueShul, a Twitter account that provided an anonymous, empathetic and often funny look inside the walls of synagogues and Jewish community organizations. After discovering a shared love for "Schitt's Creek," discussion of the comedy's magic emerges as a poignant metaphor for both the RogueShul account and for Jewish community life. Plus some Harry Potter references (from Esther, unexpectedly), a Hanukkah Hallmark movie brainstorm session and a shout out to "The Queen's Gambit" for making chess interesting. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
It's our first Bagelversary! The Bagels have been podcasting for a year now (check out last year's Halloween episode for our humble beginnings and more on Esther's non-Halloweeny youth). Now that we've both seen "Borat 2," we wish a hearty yasher koach to Sacha Baron Cohen for his surprisingly layered film, which provokes conversation about hatred, benign tolerance of anti-semitism, and remembering the Holocaust. Plus, our celebrity Zoom call fatigue continues as Jeff Goldblum and the Saturday Night Seder folks do their thing to save democracy (we hope). Also, Erin's 17 years late to the party, but is now obsessed with the very Jewy teen soap series "The O.C.," which Esther knows very little about. Finally, Esther makes Erin feel better about AppleTV+ nabbing the streaming rights to The Peanuts holiday specials. Thank you to all of our listeners for spending a year with us - here's to Year 2!! Relevant Links: 1. Halloween: It’s More Jewish Than You Think 2. Jewish Celebrities and ‘Saturday Night Seder” Get Out the Young Vote for Biden 3. Lawsuit Filed Over ‘Borat’ Sequel Synagogue Scene Dismissed 4. An anti-Semitic cake, a Holocaust survivor and a whole lot of Hebrew: All the Jewish moments in ‘Borat 2’ Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Does Sacha Baron Cohen traffic in satire or stumbling blocks? Anticipating Borat 2, Erin and Esther puzzle over the line between deception and shining a light on bad behavior. The Bagels then scratch their heads over the epidemic of TV casts reuniting to save democracy, specifically in Wisconsin (and Texas); say goodbye to "Away"'s Jewish astronaut, and meet "Grand Army"'s Jewish character who doesn't know where she belongs. The Chicago 7 had much Sorkinating but taught us a lot, and Erin shares her feelings about the political split among members of the original Beach Boys. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
With ultra-Orthodox protests against mask-wearing in New York, and election anxiety nationwide, Erin "Snuffy" Ben-Moche and Esther "Gal Gadot" Kustanowitz have a lot on their plate. Finally, Erin (and HBOMax subscribers) received the restaged, "Hartsfield's Landing" episode of the "West Wing." The Josiah Bartlet megafan shares her reactions and Esther Debbie Downers it with a dose of realism. Eventually, the Bagels discuss Israeli TV shows like "Tehran" on AppleTV+ and the forthcoming "Valley of Tears" on HBO; the prospect of Wonder Woman and representation of Israel in Hollywood; Gal Gadot as Cleopatra launches a representation conversation; and why "Shtisel" gets all the love and "Fauda" gets criticised. Plus, our question of the week: "Are you a TV binger, or a series savorer?". Grab a bag of Twizzlers (or Red Vines, if you must) as the co-hosts revisit the value of weekly episode releases over streaming a series in one sitting. Helpful Links: Vanity Fair: Gal Gadot on Wonder Woman 1984, Feminism Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
We took a break from post-Rosh Hashanah doom-scrolling to talk Emmys: Schitt's Creek overflowed with statues, Succession succeeded and Watchmen, um, won. Erin and Esther talk about some of the big issues - are creative people prophets? - get stoked for the month of Sacha Baron Cohen-tober, and marvel at how compelling storytelling can elevate cultural conversation into activism. Plus, reimagining Netflix's Calm meditations show, which features celebrity voices, from a Jewish perspective. Because that's what we do.
Relevant Links: Kieran Culkin & Dan Levy - Actors on Actors - Full Conversation Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
How long has this pandemic been? This week we're giving a big Shofar Wave to 5780 as it exits the building; reviewing some Jewy TV highlights and disappointments in time for the Emmy Awards; and considering new Oscar inclusion/diversity guidelines and how to apply them in other areas of life. Plus, loving the honesty and humor of "Big Mouth"; appreciating Tiffany Haddish's love for Judaism; delighting in more Mandy Patinkin; and appreciating the philosophy education we got from "The Good Place." And Rosh Hashanah reflections as the Bagels think about 5781 and wish you a Shana Tova. Relevant links: -Words of Light: 27 Voices, 27 Messages and Countless Blessings for 5781 -Mayim Bialik Joins L.A. Shofar Wave that Aims to Bring Jewish Community Together For Rosh Hashanah -Follow Mandy Patinkin and his adorable Twitter presence @PatinkinMandy Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
As Rosh Hashanah approaches, the Bagels are hunkering down with some new Jewy series, and getting contemplative about redemption. Esther, who grew up watching Holocaust movies in school, considers whether documentaries— including one about Iron Dome from new streaming service IZZY—might be #toosoon or #tooclose to reality for her, and Erin geeks out over Instagram posts from Broadway actors doing fun impressions including one of Mandy Patinkin. Both are looking forward to a Black Jew in space in the new show "Away" (on Netflix) and exploring how the BBC series "The Jewish Enquirer" (on Amazon) channels "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and trolls Jewish journalism at the same time. And in anticipation of the new season of "The Boys" (on Amazon and from Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg) arriving just before the High Holy Days, Esther and Erin make it Jewy. **Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!**
The Bagels are back, talking High Holy Days prep, anticipating Rachel Bloom's new book, and parsing the news from the Shtiselverse. Esther objects to a "Dirty Dancing" sequel and Erin can't conceive Zac Efron in a "Three Men and a Baby" remake. Plus, our first-ever podcast mention of Steve Guttenberg, and our hopes and dreams that Olivia Wilde's Marvel movie will feature a Spider-Beanie Feldstein.
Relevant Links: Preparing for the High Holy Days in Pandemic Times
Rachel Bloom's Book News New Website Celebrates the Creatives Behind ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ ‘Mrs. Maisel’ Celebrates the Apollo Theater in Virtual Tribute Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
The Bagels have met their match: the Bubbies who Know Best. Two journalists meet three matchmaking grandmothers who have opinions about dating, chemistry, who should make the first move-- and having reasonable expectations in relationships, and having the humility to know what they don't know. Plus, talking about diversifying the Jewish experience beyond Ashkenormativity, onscreen and off, and pronouncing Shtisel every possible way (except the right one). Esther spends time on the Bubbie's Know Best Podcast Check out the Bubbies here. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Erin and Esther dive right into the barrel and pickle their minds in the majestic, artisanal brine that is Seth Rogen's "An American Pickle," now streaming on HBOMax. As the Bagels embrace the Pickle, they unpack its origins and themes and examine some of the most flavorful moments.
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Esther's already seen "An American Pickle" and Erin is still waiting; until the Bagels are brined and ready to discuss it, they join in the conversation about Seth Rogen's comments on Israel and Judaism on Marc Maron's podcast, and consider the failures of the American Jewish educational system. Later, Esther reviews some newly available Israeli TV shows and Erin's roommates support her ongoing "Jojo Rabbit" obsession. Helpful Links: WTF With Marc Maron Podcast- SETH ROGEN Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
No, they're not actually bringing bagels to you, but the Bagels are giving it their all this week. Rolling out some regular segments, Esther and Erin still manage to make their regular mentions of shows they love while taking a delightful diversion into the weird world of "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga." Plus, the Bagels take time to appreciate Josh Gad, tackle Twitter's #JewishPrivilege conversation, celebrate Erin finally having challah for Shabbat and debate whether "Dirty Dancing" is the most Jewish movie of all time. Esther also connects Jewish fast day Tisha b'Av to popular culture and her summer camp experience. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter! What we talked about on this week's episode: Reunited Apart Maisel S3 E6: "Let's Face the Music & Dance" Stars in the House Crazy Ex-Girlfriend Reunion Learn about the Challah Back Girls!
In our 18th episode (Chai!), we're in the Zoom where it happens with our first episode since May. We're recommitting to thoughtful conversations on representation; looking forward to Amy Schumer's docuseries on HBOMax and Seth Rogen's "American Pickle"; dissecting Ryan Murphy's "The Politician"; and celebrating the life of the late Carl Reiner. The Bagels also attempt a lightning round that (spoiler!) doesn't seem that lightning fast. From #Hamilfilm and how COVID-19 may force a Broadway pivot to segments like "What? No! Why??" and "What'd We Miss?" we're happy to be back. Here's to the next chai! **Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!** *Resources on Race and the Jewish Community:* Education at Home: Online Anti-Racist Resources Available for All Ages Nearly 7,000 People Attend Juneteenth Shabbat Commemoration How Jews Can Be Better Allies to Black Americans
Diverse Jewish TV Shows and Movies to Watch with Your Family Rabbi Sandra Lawson Opens Up on Finding Connection in Unprecedented Times Jews of Color Initiative Jews in ALL Hues GlobalJews.org “Believe Us”: Black Jews Respond to the George Floyd Protests, in Their Own Words The Tribe Herald, Multicultural Media 13 Jews of Color to follow on Twitter Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein’s takeover of Mayim Bialik’s social channels How Jews Became White Folks: And What That Says About Race in America So You Want to Talk About Race
Erin and Esther are still wading through the content rapids, wearing their masks and pickling in their preferences. From adoring Mandy Patinkin's Twitter videos to wondering if Jerry Seinfeld's didya-ever-notice humor needs a more modern approach. From Ben Platt on Netflix to Batwoman on the CW, we've got all the comments. Plus being charmed by Mindy Kaling's latest teen series, "Never Have I Ever."
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The world is in chaos and the future uncertain, but oy with the content already! Ryan Murphy's "Hollywood" takes us back in time to help discrimination pave the way for a more inclusive Tinseltown; the Bagels unpack season 2 of "Dead to Me" and why Some Good News' John Krasinski should get the Nobel Peace Prize; and an unsolicited "paper bag dramatics" rewrite of HBOMax's upcoming Sarah Silverman/Seth Rogen Christmas project. Plus, drive the chevy to the levee with us for our final words (at least for now) about "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist."
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The only bagel-related thing you should be consuming this Passover is...new and classic episodes of The Bagel Report! Erin and Esther reflect on the meaning of Passover and review essential Passover classics like "The Prince of Egypt," "Rugrats," "Ten Commandments" and "The Wizard of Oz" (Esther has her reasons). Plus, Esther's bad impressions of a Family Feud buzzer, Jeff Goldblum and Yul Brenner; Angel of Death Dementors; and why all of us simultaneously are and are not Elijah the prophet this year. Wishing you all a meaningful Passover. Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Zooming from different parts of Los Angeles, Erin and Esther look to pop culture for strength. After remembering songwriter Adam Schlesinger ("Crazy Ex-Girlfriend", "That Thing You Do", Fountains of Wayne) who had it going on with his music and jokes that we loved for so long, and who died April 1 from COVID-19 complications, the bagels talk Some Good News; create a show tunes playlist appropriate for our socially distant present; tackle the beautiful but challenging "Unorthodox" and the nerve wracking "Plot Against America"; and identify with John Mulaney. Plus, trying to find the roses amid the thorns.
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This week (and for the foreseeable future) Erin and Esther are chilling at home while they social distance. Topics include catching up on what they're binging; sharing the best "Schoolhouse Rock" songs to teach kids while stuck at home; "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" songs to wash your hands to and the possibilities of Jewish life via Zoom.
Links: Haggadot.com https://www.bimbam.com Schoolhouse Rock on Youtube Taika Waititi's TED Talk: The Art of Creativity The infamous Celebrity "Imagine" video: https://www.instagram.com/p/B95M4kNhbzz/ Virtual Seder, April 12: https://www.facebook.com/events/2733814076686933/ Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
After spending a restrained 9 minutes on "Hunters," Esther and Erin SNAP OUT OF IT by getting "Moonstruck" before landing in a pickle over "Crossing Delancey." Later, the bagels tackle an array of topics including Purim costumes, how "Steel Magnolias" reminds us of the Jewish community, and why "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist" doesn't have us singing along in unison.
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Nazis in America? A group of diverse Nazi-hunters led by Al Pacino? Audiences are split on "Hunters," Amazon Prime's latest series from David Weil and produced by Jordan Peele. Erin and Esther, who both have complicated feelings, do a deep dive into the many layers and conversations spawned by the "Jewsploitation noir" show, including why it gives Erin nightmares and how it's contributing to secular Judaism's visibility and representation onscreen.
CAUTION: This episode contains spoilers from Episode 1 of "Hunters" because Erin is a loose cannon and it's conversationally helpful, but (mostly) refrains from other spoilers because Esther's committed to your experience as a potential viewer. You're welcome.
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In honor of the made-up Hallmark holiday of love, Erin and Esther talk Valentines, Galentines, Shabbat-o-grams and unrealistic romantic expectations (thanks, rom-coms!). We're also celebrating Nora Ephron and "Booksmart," remembering mortifying moments, considering the potential for a "First Wives' Club" sequel and more.
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"THEY WERE ON A BREAK!" But now Erin and Esther are back, talking fandoms, including "Star Wars," "The West Wing" & "Friends." Esther shares notes from her "Star Wars & Judaism" presentation at Limmud Seattle while Erin bids a fond, fan farewell to "The West Wing Weekly" podcast. Plus, David Schwimmer's comments on "Friends" political incorrectness and Batwoman's continued love for, but absence of details about, her Bat Mitzvah.
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As the Oscars approach, Esther and Erin called in civilian expert and Oscar blogger Jodi Berman Kustanovich (bermanoscarblog.blogspot.com), to talk nominations, predictions, and Hollywood's attitude toward diversity. Plus, "Jojo Rabbit," how Holocaust stories are told on-screen and why they win Oscars, and awaiting the return of the #MakeMoviesJewish hashtag game. And an exploration of musical episodes of television, inspired by NBC's latest musical series "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist."
Jodi's Blog: bermanoscarblog.blogspot.com JJ coverage on Jojo Rabbit Jewish Journal at the Critics' Choice Awards Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Welcome to 2020 (those zeroes are actually bagels named Esther and Erin)! Esther went to Disneyland and saw Star Wars; Erin went to the Golden Globes and met Baby Yoda. After talking TV, movies and unsung women who made a musical impact, Esther talks New Year's resolutions, and Erin has feelings about "The Nanny" heading to Broadway (with songs by Adam Schlesinger and Rachel Bloom!).
Links: Russian Doll Trailer Cats Trailer A Drink With Allee Willis Golden Globes 2020 Follow Erin, Esther and The Bagel Report on Twitter!
Deck the halls with lots of latkes! On this Hanukkah-filled (and yet slightly Star Wars-themed) episode, Esther and Erin talk decadent sufganiyot and Sephardic rosquitas; how you eat your latkes; a multiplicity of menorahs, and of course, the war on Hanukkah music. It's our last episode of 2019...more to come in 2020!
Here are the things we talked about in this week's episode if you want to check them out!
Kwanzaa article
Y-Studs - Evolution of Jewish Music [Official Video]
Six13 Star Wars Hanukkah song
Erin's SEC Hanukkah Story
Esther's Bibi's Bakery Story
Midrash Manicures Hanukkah scrunchie
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Maisel days are here again, and we'll be laughing until Passover! This week Esther and Erin discuss Season 3 of Amazon's "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (yes, spoilers, so finish already!). What we loved, what we could have done without, and, of course, our "weird asks." Plus, it's okay to cry during the Wonder Woman 84 trailer, right?
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Erin and Esther share Thanksgiving parade memories; talk new offerings from their favorite comedic ManJews; discuss American Pickle (sort of), the 'Friends' Holiday Armadillo and "Jewish" Hallmark movies; and potentially launch a new business. Plus, trying to imagine what kind of household would need an Auschwitz Christmas Ornament, and getting ready to receive a new season of 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.' Follow Erin and Esther on social media!
Thankful for streaming and social media, Erin and Esther explore Disney+ offerings including the Mandalorian and Jeff Goldblum's new show; schmooze about their theater kid pasts; address fan rebellions against content creators who are "mishandling" treasured stories; and talk turkey about popular culture building relationship bridges. Plus what we're looking forward to at the box office (including "Frozen 2: Do You Wanna Build Another Snowman?") and on streaming...just in time for Gratitudesgiving.
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Erin and Esther share their excitement about comedian Tiffany Haddish's upcoming bat mitzvah and her comedy special "Black Mitzvah," and share thoughts and feelings about Switzerland's “The Awakening of Motti Wolkenbruch,” now on Netflix. Also, just because “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” is off the air doesn't mean we're not going to talk about its brilliance, especially now that show star and co-creator Rachel Bloom is auctioning show memorabilia to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). She's such a menschette. And at the center of this triangle of topics is little ol' us. :) Follow Erin and Esther on Twitter!
In the premiere episode of The Bagel Report, Erin and Esther talk about the one holiday that’s taBOO for the Jews: Halloween. Whether you dress up and demand candy door-to-door or opt out entirely, join us for a Jewish gloss on the holiday: including Erin’s list of iconic scary movie scores written by NJB Danny Elfman and Esther’s recollections of growing up without Halloween. Plus, what makes a Halloween costume “Kosher”?
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