Join the Geek Girls as we revisit the pilot episode of HBO's critically acclaimed series "The Leftovers" on its 10th anniversary. Susan, Kelly, and Cort dive deep into the haunting first installment that introduced viewers to the mysterious world of Mapleton, where 2% of the global population suddenly vanished without a trace.

Highlights:

- Reflections on our initial reactions to the pilot 10 years ago

- Analysis of key characters and performances, including our man Justin Theroux as Kevin Garvey

- Discussion of the show's unique tone, symbolism, and use of music

- Examination of changes from the original novel by Tom Perrotta

- Appreciation for the series' exploration of grief, faith, and human resilience

- Speculation on unanswered questions and interpretations of the Sudden Departure

We also touch on recent entertainment news, including the box office success of "Inside Out 2" and actor Billy Zane's comments on the emotional toll of intense roles.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this nostalgic look back offers fascinating insights into one of television's most thought-provoking shows. Let the mystery be!

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

03:00 - Entertainment news

13:40 - The Leftovers pilot discussion begins

56:00 - What we're watching this week

01:04:00 - House of the Dragon S2E2 reactions (spoilers)

Check out our original take on episode 1, from 2014!

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

Follow us on Instagram @GeekGirlSoup

Continue the conversation on Facebook

Listen to Cort's podcast with Brad at PureFandom.com

Check out Susan’s movie stats on Letterboxd

Email your questions and comments to GeekGirlSoup@gmail.com

Geek on!

For this episode in our Hidden Gems series, Susan found a fabulous series on Max called “Sort Of.” We happily anticipate the return of “House of the Dragon,” also on Max/HBO. We share what we watched so the you don’t have to, give some recommendations, and discuss what’s coming out this next week.

We don’t really spoil anything for any of the movies/show we discuss. So, feel free to hit “play” and let it roll! But, if you want to pick and choose your segments, check out this rough rundown of our discussion points:

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:01:00] - House of the Dragon and Succession

- Debate on royal inheritance and gender roles

- Comparison with the Roy family from Succession

More stuff!

[00:08:00] - Entertainment News

[00:11:00] - Crazy Rich Asians Sequel and Spin-off

- Update on the sequel and a new TV show focusing on Gemma Chan's character

[00:13:00] - Current Shows

- Presumed Innocent on Apple TV+ featuring Jake and Ruth Negga

- Speculation on how it compares to the original movie

[00:14:00] - Movie Review: Monkey Man

[00:16:00] - Reality TV and Comedy Specials

- Susan’s reality TV binge while packing

- Review of Marlon Wayans' comedy special Good Grief

[00:18:00] - Documentary Review: Six Schizophrenic Brothers

- Kelly’s review of the Max documentary

- Critique on the portrayal of mental illness

More stuff!

[00:24:00] - The Boys Season Four

- Cort's excitement for the new season on Amazon Prime

- Discussion on the show's themes and recent controversies

[00:26:00] - Stand-up Special: Hannah Einbinder

[00:27:00] - MAIN THEME: Hidden Gem: Sort Of

- Overview of the Canadian show Sort Of on Max

- Discussion on the representation of gender fluidity and trans characters

[00:39:00] - Upcoming Documentaries

[00:51:00] - Juneteenth Recommendations

- Cort's recommendation of The Blackening for Juneteenth

[00:52:00] - Next Week: The 10th Anniversary of the pilot episode of “The Leftovers”

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

Follow us on Instagram @GeekGirlSoup

Continue the conversation on Facebook

Listen to Cort's podcast with Brad at PureFandom.com

Check out Susan’s movie stats on Letterboxd

Email your questions and comments to GeekGirlSoup@gmail.com

Geek on!

You’re watching House of the Dragon, right? Let’s compare your first take to ours!

The Geek Girls are chatting about our immediate reactions to season 2 episode 1 of HOTD, baby! Check it!

-

Original music by Garrett Thompson

Follow us on Instagram @GeekGirlSoup

Continue the conversation on Facebook

Listen to Cort's podcast with Brad at PureFandom.com

Check out Susan’s movie stats on Letterboxd

Email your questions and comments to GeekGirlSoup@gmail.com

Geek on!