The Incomparable Star Wars feed: Recent Episodes
The Incomparable
Hello there! We discuss “Obi-Wan Kenobi” on Disney+, including Ewan MacGregor’s delight in the role, the return of Hayden Christensen, and balancing the needs of superfans with movies-only fans. Host Dan Moren with Kathy Campbell, Chip Sudderth, Tony Sindelar and James Thomson.
Break out your Lego bounty hunters and put away your adult Wookiee holo-entertainment—it’s time for the game where Incomparable listeners infuriate and confuse Incomparable panelists with their opinions about Star Wars! Two teams feud, like families, in a galaxy-spanning battle for points, planets, and porgs. Host Jason Snell with Erika Ensign, Tony Sindelar, Dan Moren, David J. Loehr, Kelly Guimont and Monty Ashley.
Is this the way? We break down the second season of “The Mandalorian,” which sees our title character struggling with his own identity as a Mandalorian as well as coming to grips with the important task of protecting the child that he’s been caring for. What’s the difference between good and bad fan service? How many different spin-off shows were being set up this season? And we workshop a Baby Yoda sitcom. Host Jason Snell with Antony Johnston, Dan Moren, James Thomson, Helene Wecker and Kelly Guimont.
Season two of The Mandalorian wraps up with a few surprises…and more than a few questions about the future. Host Dan Moren is joined by very special guest Kat Benesh to discuss the Empire’s workplace safety requirements, season two’s wider world, and where we go from here. Host Dan Moren with K Benesh.
It’s a break-in with a familiar face this week on The Mandalorian, and host Dan Moren welcomes special guests Jason Tocci and Genevieve Tocci to discuss a fight scene with a problematic edge, why min/maxing your stats is dangerous, and the moment that Mando became a dad. Host Dan Moren with Jason Tocci and Genevieve Tocci.
Tragedy abounds this week on The Mandalorian, as we ramp up to the end of season two. Host Dan Moren is joined by special guest Chip Sudderth to discuss the characterization of a storied (but rarely glimpsed) character, honor among thieves, and the many mistakes of Mando. Host Dan Moren with Chip Sudderth.
It’s a big episode of The Mandalorian this week as several familiar names (and one brand new name!) are dropped, which means it’s a big episode of A Complicated Profession. Kelly Guimont joins host Dan Moren to discuss the bad habits we learn from our teachers, side quests aplenty, and all the questions we need answered. Host Dan Moren with Kelly Guimont.
This week on A Complicated Profession, we’re doing an easy job taking out an Imperial base. Easy! What could go wrong? Host Dan Moren is joined by Antony Johnston to discuss threading the needle of deep fandom and telling a great, accessible story; gorgeous production design; and leaving plot threads dangling. Host Dan Moren with Antony Johnston.
Happy Life Day! To celebrate this important occasion, The Incomparable hereby presents a commentary track, to be viewed alongside The Star Wars Holiday Special. You’ll need to find the Holiday Special via the usual rebel channels. We watched the version with ads in it, so if you find a different version, pause the show during the ads. Host Jason Snell with Annette Wierstra, Dan Moren, David J. Loehr, John Siracusa, Kelly Guimont, Steve Lutz and Chip Sudderth.
What do you expect when you get your ship fixed on a fishing planet? A lot of netting. This week on A Complicated Profession, Dan Moren is joined by podcast pal Erika Ensign to discuss the balancing act of everything from fan service to lore to making sure your main character doesn’t always look like a galoot. Host Dan Moren with Erika Ensign.
The only profession more complicated than being a bounty hunter? Being a taxi service. This week, on A Complicated Profession, host Dan Moren is joined by podcaster and developer James Thomson to discuss children being jerks, standalone storytelling, and why you should never touch anything in a creepy ice cave. Host Dan Moren with James Thomson.
A Complicated Profession is back to cover season 2 of The Mandalorian, and host Dan Moren welcomes podcaster and author Helene Wecker to discuss the evolution of our protagonist from season one, having your tropes and eating them too, and whether there are more than six things in the Star Wars universe. Host Dan Moren with Helene Wecker.
It all comes down to this. We return with a special bonus episode that sees the embodiment of all Jedi, Dan Moren, and the collection of all Sith, Lex Friedman, cover 2019’s Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker, thus wrapping up their coverage of the storied franchise. Hot topics include the surprisingly brilliant deployment of Threepio humor, the camaraderie of our main characters, a Kylo Ren-demption, and building an entire story around cast-off Leia scenes. Thanks for tuning in, and keep your eyes peeled for season 6 of Not Playing, coming this summer! Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
The Skywalker Saga is over—so what’s next for “Star Wars”? This week we’re suggesting potential directions for the franchise to go, on both the big and small screens. What kinds of movies should come next? Is Disney+ a development platform or the next big thing? Our team of franchise fans has no fiduciary responsibility and plenty of ideas! Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Kelly Guimont and Monty Ashley.
In the interest of keeping you entertained if you’re locked indoors, here’s a full-length commentary track for one of our favorite movies, the original “Star Wars,” recorded in 2018. Play this commentary, press play on the movie when we tell you to, and it’ll be like you’re watching the movie with a bunch of friends! Note: You have to play it at 1x speed and with all silence-shortening features turned off on your podcast player or it won’t stay synced. This version has been edited to match the runtime of the Special Edition cut of “Star Wars”, which is the version you’ll find on DVD, iTunes, and Disney+. (We actually watched the “despecialized” edition that matches the original 1977 version of this film, and you can find that version of our commentary track here. If you’re in the UK or elsewhere that has a sped-up PAL version of the movie, you can listen to re-timed versions of our commentary for PAL special edition and PAL despecialized.) This track was originally made as a special for Incomparable members. We’ve done a bunch more since. If you’d like access to every members special we’ve ever done, become a member! Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Kelly Guimont, Monty Ashley and Shannon Sudderth.
Grab a tracking fob and saddle up a bluurg, because it’s time to discuss “The Mandalorian,” the first live-action Star Wars TV series. Why is the show’s main character always wearing a mask? How much merchandise money did Disney forego in order to keep Baby Yoda a secret? Is the Mandalorian capable of providing an environment in which Baby Yoda can thrive? Why is serving tea so civilized? We’ve got to get us one of those jet packs. Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, Helene Wecker, Chip Sudderth and Aleen Simms.
Our trilogy of panels about “The Rise of Skywalker” concludes with a discussion of the film’s themes, how Kylo Ren keeps sliding into Rey’s DMs, whether you can ever have enough “Star Wars”, and how “Star Wars” is a little bit like “Seinfeld.” Host Moisés Chiullan with Tiff Arment, Marco Arment, Cicero Holmes and David J. Loehr.
The first season of The Mandalorian comes to a close this week, so Dan Moren and very special guest Kat Benesh to discuss a significant unmasking, drawing parallels with the past, and what we might see when season two debuts next fall. Host Dan Moren with K Benesh.
Our panel of rebel podcasters, striking again from their hidden base, present another perspective on “The Rise of Skywalker.” Why does James want to see evil droids? Does Liz find Ben Solo or Kylo Ren more intriguing? Can Chip be satisfied with the ending to this generation-defining saga? Why are we in the midst of a global Porg shortage? Guest host Antony Johnston will seek the answers. Host Antony Johnston with Lizbeth Myles, James Thomson and Chip Sudderth.
In this spoiler-filled episode, we give The Rise of Skywalker a thorough going-over. Plus, we discover a not-as-terrible-as-you-might-think addition to our carousel of bad holiday made-for-TV movies. And Phil has a nasty break-up with Jennifer Lawrence. Movies Ruined: Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Avengers: Endgame, The Irishman, Black Widow, Turkey Drop. Host Lisa Schmeiser and Philip Michaels.
The Dead Speak, and so do we! It’s our first panel reviewing “The Rise of Skywalker.” Can this film bear the gravitational pull of the eight previous Skywalker Saga films? Does it provide a proper ending? We discuss Rey’s parentage, Finn’s increasing abilities, Poe’s lessons in leadership, whether Kylo Ren can possibly be redeemed, Zen and the Art of X-Wing Maintenance, how the film balances honoring Carrie Fisher with serving Leia’s character arc, and much more. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Erika Ensign, Tony Sindelar, Kelly Guimont and Aleen Simms.
We regroup on this week’s episode of A Complicated Profession, as host Dan Moren recruits trustworthy allies Guy English and John Moltz to discuss lazy biker scouts, Chekhov’s bassinet, and Baby Yoda’s moral code. Host Dan Moren with Guy English and John Moltz.
It’s double trouble on A Complicated Profession this week, as host Dan Moren is joined by special guests Jane and Evan Ritt, to discuss the offscreen life of our protagonist, warring codes of morality, and unfortunate high school flashbacks. Host Dan Moren with Jane Ritt and Evan Ritt.
Though Disney’s purchase of Fox clears all final hurdles in terms of rights to the original “Star Wars”, there’s still no way for anyone to watch the historic theatrical cuts of any of the original films. Instead, the new Disney+ streaming service now offers a 4K Special Edition with even more changes to the beloved classic. Is this the definitive version of “Star Wars” for the rest of eternity? Does Disney’s assumption of the franchise provide a new hope? Can Disney honor history and give fans what they want without negating George Lucas’s insistence that his Special Editions are the only editions? What is “Star Wars” and what will it be in the future? In this episode, we solve the whole thing. You’re welcome. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Moisés Chiullan and Kelly Guimont.
This week, on A Complicated Profession, host Dan Moren is joined by special guest Tony Sindelar to discuss the most recent episode of The Mandalorian, including how much fan service is just the right amount, droid-related head-canon, and the premature(?) fate of an anticipated character. Host Dan Moren with Tony Sindelar.
A Complicated Profession returns with Chapter 4 of The Mandalorian. Host Dan Moren is joined by special guest Kathy Campbell to discuss a compelling new ally for Mando, reinforcing the essential nature of our characters, and homages to a favorite Western trope. Host Dan Moren with Kathy Campbell.
We’re back for the third episode of A Complicated Profession and your host Dan Moren is joined by special guest and network head honcho Jason Snell to discuss chapter 3 of The Mandalorian. Our discussion covers the many possible interpretations of sin, what exactly happened to the Empire, and how this show paves the way for future Star Wars series. Host Dan Moren with Jason Snell.
In the second episode of A Complicated Profession, Dan Moren is joined by Aleen Simms to discuss the second chapter of The Mandalorian, including how an episode can succeed without using a lot of dialogue, ants at picnics, the unpredictability of characters that live in the gray areas, and whether or not the Mandalorian should take off his helmet. Host Dan Moren with Aleen Simms.
In the inaugural episode of A Complicated Profession, host Dan Moren is joined by fellow Star Wars aficionado John Siracusa to discuss the debut of The Mandalorian, the first live-action Star Wars series. We talk about the heritage of Star Wars on TV, Werner Herzog as Werner Herzog, and exactly what kind of show this is. Host Dan Moren with John Siracusa.
We break down the “Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker” teaser trailer scene by scene, speculate about what the title means, question how to balance the closure of the classic saga without straying too far into nostalgia trips, and offer some wild speculation. Then we wrap things up with a discussion of the future of the franchise now that it’s moving (at least temporarily) to the forthcoming Disney+ streaming service. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Moisés Chiullan, Dan Moren, Kelly Guimont, Chip Sudderth and David J. Loehr.
We’ve got a good feeling about this. It’s member season around these parts, and Lex and Dan are back to their old Star Wars tricks, especially for you. Join daredevil pilot Dan Moren and charming gambler Lex Friedman as they steal away with 2018’s Solo: A Star Wars Story. Hot topics include whoever the hell Laredo is, speaking the Wookiee language, the somewhat mystifying fate of Qi’ra, and why Woody Harrelson playing a Woody Harrelson character is always a good thing. Plus, we quickly deliver some angry news about the upcoming Not Playing Season 5. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
Fresh from the movie theaters, here’s our flash review of “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” In a world where there’s a new “Star Wars” movie every year, sometimes it’s a relief not to have the fate of the galaxy at stake. What are the rules of Sabacc? Are references the lowest form of fan service? Will casual fans be more enthusiastic than hard-core ones? Why watch droids fighting for entertainment when you have holograms? From train heists to floating space yachts to surprise cameos, we break it all down. Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa, Erika Ensign, Kelly Guimont, Tony Sindelar and Philip Michaels.
This is not going to go the way you think. Or will it? For this special bonus episode, we watch the most recent movie ever to appear on the show, and round out our viewing of one of the world’s biggest franchises. Join grumpy sequestered Jedi Master Dan Moren and enthusiastic would-be trainee Lex Friedman as they team up to check out 2017’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Hot topics include “how do you pronounce the director’s name?”, alienation that has only a little to do with aliens, and the question that’s on everyone’s mind: What is wrong with Lex Friedman? Plus, some TOP SECRET info on the upcoming season four of Not Playing. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
Our (increasingly inaccurately named) team of rebel UK podcasters takes on “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Join us for another deep dive into the themes, performances, and surprises of the latest “Star Wars movie.” We promise not to mention Porgs until the very end! Host Antony Johnston with Serenity Caldwell, James Thomson and Moisés Chiullan.
“Time and Relative Dimension in Space” meets “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” as a hardy rebel band of podcasters who are “Doctor Who” fans form The Incomparable’s second panel about “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”. We take on the themes of failure and redemption, the unexpected fan reactions, and specious comparisons between “Doctor Who” showrunners and Star Wars directors. And porgs. Always porgs. Host Chip Sudderth with Erika Ensign, Steven Schapansky, Alyssa Franke and Warren Frey.
Kids explode the darnedest things. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
Phil and Lisa take on “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” in a spoilerific episode filled with your daily recommended allowance of Porgs. They also discuss popular blockbusters “Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool” and “Death of Stalin”, while shining some light on obscure cult favorites “Ready Player One” and “Avengers: Infinity War.” Host Lisa Schmeiser and Philip Michaels.
Grab a porg, put on your matching necklaces, and get out your ancient Jedi texts—it’s time to discuss “The Last Jedi,” episode VIII of the “Star Wars” saga. (And if we missed something, please understand that we’ve only seen it once so far!) Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Kelly Guimont, Aleen Simms and Tony Sindelar.
With Jason away “on assignment,” a Rebel force of podcasters takes over The Incomparable’s transmission tower to celebrate (and introduce you to, if you haven’t watched them yet) Lucasfilm’s animated extensions to the Star Wars canon: the six-season Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, which is entering its fourth and final season. Why do adult fans love them? Did they actually redeem the prequels? Who are the breakout characters who became as important as anyone in the movies? We steer clear of the big spoilers! Host Chip Sudderth with Dan Moren, Lizbeth Myles, David Sparks, Alyssa Franke and Tony Sindelar.
This week we learned that Lucasfilm has parted ways with Colin Trevorrow, who was previously slated to write and direct 2019’s installment in the “Star Wars” saga, and realized that the absolutely dumbest way to react to the news would be to draft a bunch of possible replacements. So in this episode we present our suggestions to fill that director’s chair, from the real to the ridiculous to the ones from beyond the grave! Along the way we take time to discuss the challenges of finding ways for creative people to mesh with big studio-controlled franchises. And all without a single “Star Wars” spoiler! Host Jason Snell with Serenity Caldwell, Monty Ashley, Dan Moren, Guy English, David J. Loehr and Brian Hamilton.
The circle is now complete. We conclude our viewing of the Star Wars saga—for now, anyway—with the most recent installment in the main sequence of movies. Grizzled smuggler Dan Moren teams up with desert scavenger Lex Friedman to take in the spectacle that is 2015’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Hot topics include Kylo Ren as a Vader wannabe, how to get just the right amount of C-3PO, and, of course, the fact that Supreme Leader Snoke is a dumb name. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
In our penultimate episode, we close out the original trilogy with the movie that began a sixteen year hiatus of the Star Wars franchise. Lovable Ewok Dan Moren leads rebel commando Lex Friedman through the 1983 version of Return of the Jedi. Hot topics include distracting alien effects, much ado about Admiral Ackbar’s famous line, what the heck the deal with Force ghosts is, and, of course, whether the film is a Vader apologia. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
We return to season 3 of Not Playing with the rare sequel that arguably surpasses its predecessor—at least as far as one of our panelists is concerned. Roguish smuggler Lex Friedman puts his trust in card player, gambler, and scoundrel Dan Moren to lead him through the 1980 masterpiece The Empire Strikes Back. Hot topics include the most awkward dinner ever, disconcerting tauntaun animations, and, of course, why puppet Yoda is better than CGI Yoda. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
On to the main course. It’s the 1977 classic that started this whole thing: Star Wars. (And not with any of that “Episode IV” jazz or anything.) Crazy old wizard Dan Moren and whiny farm boy Lex Friedman embark upon the epic beginning of the franchise as season 3 of Not Playing passes the mid-point. Hot topics include the names of Tatooine’s two suns, the weird slightly retconnings of Rogue One, whether or not the Millennium Falcon really is a hunk of junk, and, of course, why Obi-Wan Kenobi calls his old buddy “Darth”. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
And now for something completely different. Rebel spy Dan Moren and reckless criminal-turned-freedom-fighter Lex Friedman take a break from the story of the Skywalker clan to watch 2016’s Rogue One, the first of the standalone anthology movies set in the Star Wars universe. Hot topics include why droids are programmed with people-like personalities, why the Death Star flaws come in two separate parts, the convincing performance of Governor Tarkin, and hey, Jimmy Smits is back! Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
And with this, we conclude eating our vegetables for this special third of Not Playing covering the Star Wars saga. Dark Lord of the Sith Dan Moren and his apprentice Lex Friedman watch the final installment of the prequels, 2005’s Revenge of the Sith, allowing them to at last move onward and upward. Hot topics include the complete absurdity of Anakin’s fall to the dark side, the frustrating nature of putting Padmé on a shelf, and, wait, is that Jimmy Smits again? Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
We return to a galaxy far, far away, a slightly less long time ago for the second installment of our epic third season, covering the entire Star Wars saga. Supreme Chancellor Dan Moren guides Senator Lex Friedman through the 2002 soporific bore film, Attack of the Clones. Hot topics for this episode include telling the difference between clones and droids, a horrendously unconvincing love story, why CGI Yoda is an offense to all right-minded people, and who the hell Jimmy Smits is playing. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
You’re not seeing things! We’re back with a very special season three of Not Playing with Lex and Dan. Right on schedule, as we promised. Go about your business. Move along. Regular listeners of the show know that among the most egregious holes in Lex’s movie-watching history are most of the Star Wars saga, so in season three, we’re out to correct that oversight. Join Jedi Master Dan Moren as he takes padawan Lex under his wing and shepherds him through the entire eight (soon to be nine) movie saga. Hot topics for this debut episode, which covers the 1999 travesty installment, The Phantom Menace, include what to do about really uncomfortable portrayals of aliens, why some droids can’t speak English, whether or not Queen Amidala is currently Natalie Portman, and what the hell planet we’re on now. Programming Note: In addition to this capsule episode, which contains our discussion before and after the film, members can watch along with Lex and Dan in a full-length commentary track, available in the members-only First Class feed. If you’re not already a member, why not sign up? And if you are, now’s a great time to update your membership allocations and maybe throw a little support in the direction of Not Playing. Thanks! Host Lex Friedman and Dan Moren.
Striking from a hidden base, our rebellious European podcasters have once again taken over the Incomparable Death Star—er, Zeppelin—to provide their own unique opinions on “Rogue One,” the latest Star Wars film. Host Antony Johnston with Lizbeth Myles, James Thomson and Dan Moren.
The address is 1234 Jedha St, Jedha City, Jedha Planet. Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
Put on your Kyber crystal necklace, don a stylish white cape, and keep the Force with you! It’s time to break down “Rogue One,” the first big-budget live-action non-saga “Star Wars” film. We discuss how the film juggles its many characters and settings, the issues with reviving past film elements through CGI, the splendor of Darth Vader’s bachelor pad (and the weirdness of his bathroom), the unexpectedly spectacular space battle, the vacation plans of the Empire’s records division, the film’s strange disconnection with its teaser trailer, and a whole lot more. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Serenity Caldwell, Monty Ashley and Tony Sindelar.
As a new “Star Wars” movie nears its release, we turn our attention to some of our least favorite features of this franchise we love. Our panelists draft our least favorite Special Edition changes, retcons, Original Trilogy and “Force Awakens” elements, and more. Plus we each pitch a new “Star Wars” movie that can right a wrong in the existing canon. Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, Joe Rosensteel, Monty Ashley, John Siracusa, David J. Loehr and David Sparks.
Nope, Jason, John, Serenity, and Dan aren’t going to analyze the trailer for “Star Wars: Rogue One.” It’s not going to happen. It would take rebel podcasters, striking from a hidden studio, to bring this podcast to its knees… Host Antony Johnston with Lizbeth Myles, Chip Sudderth and Moisés Chiullan.
The first teaser trailer for “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” has dropped, and so in the spirit of our “Force Awakens” teaser breakdown, we’re back to provide frame-by-frame analysis of all 90 seconds. This is the first in a new series of “Star Wars” anthology movies, this one set before and around 1977’s original film. How do you make a period piece about a fictional period? What’s Felicity Jones’s character all about? Why does Forrest Whitaker have a Darth Vader breathing harmonica? And why does Jason refer to all droids like they’re vacuum cleaners? For some questions there are no good answers. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Dan Moren and Serenity Caldwell.
Our many-part analysis of “The Force Awakens” continues. In this episode we praise the casting of Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, and Oscar Isaac, and ponder how the diversity of the “Star Wars” universe has increased. Plus, did Luke hide something in all the droids? Why does Finn hold a lightsaber like a baseball bat? Why would one of the Weasley brothers become a fascist? And ultimately, why is this film redemptive for the franchise as a whole? Host Aleen Simms with Lisa Schmeiser, Erika Ensign and David J. Loehr.
In this installment of our continuing coverage of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” our East Coast panel gushes a little, complains about Starkiller Base a little, ponders “The Force Awakens” as a buddy movie, copes with death, and tries to imagine what it will be like to get a new “Star Wars” movie every year. Also, Scott keeps bringing up “Star Trek.” Host Chip Sudderth with Andy Ihnatko, Shannon Sudderth, Scott McNulty and Tony Sindelar.
Lots of people have opinions about “The Force Awakens,” and it’s sort of our charter to overdo it when it comes to “Star Wars.” So this week we’re presenting several follow-up panels about this new film. In this installment, we travel across the pond for a panel predominantly made up of residents of the UK. Why are there Scottish people in space? Who is the face of fresh young fascism? Where can we get red replacement arms? Host Antony Johnston with Lizbeth Myles, James Thomson and Dan Moren.
After three years of anticipation, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is finally here, and our panel of “Star Wars” fans is ready to review it. So here we go. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Serenity Caldwell and Dan Moren.
Who’s a good Jedi? Yes you are! Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
Just ahead of “The Force Awakens” release, game designer and podcaster Brianna Wu joins Antony to round off our very own “prequel trilogy” with a defense of “Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith”! Host Antony Johnston with Brianna Wu.
With “The Force Awakens” only a week away, we pause to ponder why we’ve anticipated this film release for more than three years. What spoilers have we avoided? (This episode certainly contains none.) What does it mean that “Star Wars” is now an extended film franchise releasing new films annually? How many times are we going to see the film next weekend, and how will we find time to podcast about it? And perhaps most importantly, can any new “Star Wars” movie ever possibly hope to capture the excitement we felt when we discovered these films as children? Host Jason Snell with Serenity Caldwell, John Siracusa and Dan Moren.
Remember that time we found a clone army in the couch cushions? Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
As it turns out, we don’t agree on everything. Who knew? Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
The thing is, you get more parsecs per mile on the highway. Host Joe Rosensteel and Dan Sturm.
Film critic and controversial prequel fan Mike Klimo joins Antony to explain his unorthodox Ring Theory, and how he believes it proves “Episode II: Attack of the Clones” is unjustly maligned. It’s kind of intense. Host Antony Johnston with Mike Klimo.
Podcaster and handwavium aficionado Erika Ensign joins Antony to explain why “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace” is unjustly maligned, that audiences should judge a movie in what it’s trying to be rather than what it’s trying to live up to, and how George Lucas never grew up. Host Antony Johnston with Erika Ensign.
A new “Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens” trailer has appeared! And, as was fated, we are here to deconstruct it within an inch of its life. Dark Side IKEA end tables! John Boyega quotes us the odds! Bespoke evil ships! And is that a glimmer in your eye, or just some lens flare? Plus we give some love to BB8, everyone’s favorite robotic soccer ball. Dan Moren reports in from the Star Wars celebration, and Serenity Caldwell phones in from her car. This is serious business, people. Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Serenity Caldwell and Dan Moren.
Finished, this podcast torture is. We conclude our conversation about “Star Wars - Episode III: Revenge of the Sith,” taking you all the way through the dissatisfying ending. As a bonus, we try to rank the prequels, and discover a surprising winner. (part 2 of 2) Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Serenity Caldwell, Steve Lutz, Dan Moren and Andy Ihnatko.
War! We begin our final battle with the “Star Wars” prequels with our take on “Star Wars - Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.” After a long string of opening statements, we take on the crawl and the first few scenes of the film. Why does a droid wheeze? Why are villains introduced off screen? Why is Christopher Lee wasted? What’s the deal with all the elevators? Why is Darth Vader a chump? Why is there even more boring political science? What happened to Natalie Portman, and why is she wearing beaded bedclothes while standing on balconies? (part 1 of 2) Host Jason Snell with Steve Lutz, John Siracusa, Dan Moren, Serenity Caldwell and Andy Ihnatko.
It’s time for Counterclockwise, the panel show where four people discuss four geeky aspects of a single topic, and it’ll all get done in less than 42 minutes. This week on our inaugural Counterclockwise, Jason and Dan are joined by Tony Sindelar and John Siracusa to discuss “Star Wars.” Our topics include: “Star Wars” ships and vehicles, the best scenes from the original trilogy, classic video games and books, and who’s going to die in “The Force Awakens.” Plus, we all pick our Sith names! Host Jason Snell and Dan Moren with John Siracusa and Tony Sindelar.
It’s the holiday season, when it’s time to consider what’s truly important. We spend time with family and friends and maybe even reserve a few moments to ponder some of life’s mysteries: Is Bea Arthur really Boba Fett? Does Han Solo have a secret Wookie bride? What is Tobor spelled backward? And does C-3PO have eyelids? Host Jason Snell with David J. Loehr, John Siracusa, Steve Lutz, Erika Ensign, Tony Sindelar, Monty Ashley and Dan Moren.
There’s now a teaser trailer for “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, and you know we have opinions. And so, in great Incomparable fashion, we’re here to talk about 80 seconds of video for more than an hour. How could we not? Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa and Dan Moren.
The casting for “Star Wars: Episode VII” has been announced, and so our team of interested “Star Wars” fans has arrived to break down the returning actors, the new faces, and our hopes for the future of the franchise. Plus we talk Kremlinology and Soviet industrial design, lament a bag of villains, and confuse screenwriters with pasta. Host Jason Snell with Serenity Caldwell, Lisa Schmeiser, John Siracusa, Dan Moren and Andy Ihnatko.
Do you like sand? Then you may get upset as we conclude our discussion of “Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones,” in which we ponder the mystery of droid consciousness, fail to get excited about seeing our old friends from Episode I again, open a Variety Pack of monsters, debate Yoda’s fighting strategy, and talk John Siracusa off the ledge. Finally, we ponder whether it’s worse for a movie to be bad or boring. (Part 2 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa, Monty Ashley, Serenity Caldwell and Steve Lutz.
Our complete, uninterrupted conversation about “Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones.” (You can listen to this instead of episodes 182 and 183 of The Incomparable.) Host Jason Snell with Monty Ashley, Steve Lutz, John Siracusa and Dan Moren.
Against the advice of our doctors, we’re back with more prequels. This time it’s “Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones.” With three different opening statements, our podcast is about as bureaucratic as the Imperial Senate. We also discuss R2’s incompetence as a security system, ponder Anakin’s puzzling pick-up lines (and haircut), sympathize with the boring job of the Jedi, and question the plight of the Fett family and the clone troopers. (Part 1 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with John Siracusa, Steve Lutz, Serenity Caldwell, Dan Moren and Monty Ashley.
We conclude our discussion of “Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace.” We discuss the merits of podracing, debate who the Jedi’s version of Fonzie is, and grapple with tricky euphemisms. Plus, is the final lightsaber duel cool or just over-choreographed? And why is there a hall full of forcefields, next to a room with no guard rails? Party on, Darth! (Part 2 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, Greg Knauss, John Siracusa, Serenity Caldwell, Steve Lutz and Monty Ashley.
They said it couldn’t be done! They said it shouldn’t be done! But here we are, talking about “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace.” Why are the Jedi such jerks? A little Jedi goes a long way. Also, the biggest letdown of John Siracusa’s life to date, stupid droids, good actors being boring, text versus subtext, the merits of prequels in general, and why this is a movie that makes us dream… of a better movie. Exqueeze me? (Part 1 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, Greg Knauss, John Siracusa, Monty Ashley, Serenity Caldwell and Steve Lutz.
Were we pranked, or did Disney really just buy Lucasfilm and announce a new Star Wars trilogy? We decided to just assume it’s happening and record a live flash podcast about this unexpected turn of events. Host Jason Snell with Ben Boychuk, Dan Moren, John Siracusa and Serenity Caldwell.
We wrap up our six-part series on the classic “Star Wars” movies with the climactic final half of “Return of the Jedi.” We discuss how the Empire is ahead of the rebels every step of the way, question Luke’s choice of forest camouflage, and explain why Ewoks are better unsubtitled. Also, how is Luke’s journey to being a Jedi not like what you see in most action movies? Who is more heroic in the end, Luke or Vader? Why does the Emperor wait so long to show us his lightning fingers? Why are rebel ships equipped with fireworks? And is Endor the name of the moon, or the name of the planet the moon is orbiting, or both? Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa and Serenity Caldwell.
We tackle the last of the classic “Star Wars” trilogy, “Return of the Jedi.” Why does Jabba the Hutt enjoy avant-garde wall hangings and ’80s dance moves? Isn’t it sad how Boba Fett goes out with a whimper? Are the alien languages in “Star Wars” too fake-sounding? And what’s up with Leia’s metal bikini? (Part 1 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa and Serenity Caldwell.
Gather some bounty hunters and warm up the carbon freezer! It’s time for the conclusion of our epic discussion of “The Empire Strikes Back.” We dissect the evolution of the Han-Leia relationship, the truly playful nature of Yoda and the importance of Dagobah, Vader’s agenda and his crunchy gloves, and Luke’s continuing adventures with garbage. Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa and Serenity Caldwell.
Launch your probe droids and cut open your tauntaun! It’s time for part one of our two-part discussion of “The Empire Strikes Back.” Does Han Solo just want to be loved? Is Chewie sabotaging the Falcon on purpose? Why is snowy Hoth the setting? Why is Ben Kenobi a man of few words? Who’s scruffy-lookin’? And what is the purpose for Darth Vader’s clamshell office, anyway? Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa and Serenity Caldwell.
Continuing our discussion of “Star Wars,” the original film. We praise the jump to hyperspace, explain why TIE fighter pilots wear black, ponder how Han and Leia somehow turn up in an Aaron Sorkin scene, reveal why there is no Space OSHA, comment on Ben Kenobi’s old man slippers and incomparable pseudonym, and expose the rebellion so rich it can have its own university and mint its own medals. (Part 2 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa, Scott McNulty and Greg Knauss.
“Star Wars,” the original film, is finally in our crosshairs, and if we can bulls-eye a Womp Rat we can take on this classic sci-fi film. We talk about our first memories of Star Wars, pretend the prequels didn’t happen, give Cantina drink-ordering tips, and marvel at Darth Vader’s coffee-drinking habits. (Part 1 of 2.) Host Jason Snell with Dan Moren, John Siracusa, Scott McNulty and Greg Knauss.