Slate Daily Feed Culture Gabfest - The Biggest Show on Paramount Is Big Oil Propaganda Edition
Dec 17, 2025
This week features Rebecca Onion, a Slate senior writer with a keen eye for television criticism. She joins the hosts to dive into Taylor Sheridan's Landman, exploring Billy Bob Thornton's captivating performance and the show's intriguing take on masculinity. The conversation shifts to HBO's Heated Rivalry, tackling its steamy portrayal of gay hockey romance and the debate over its focus on romance versus sport. Finally, they pay tribute to Rob Reiner, sharing unforgettable moments from his iconic films and celebrating his extraordinary impact on cinema.
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Episode notes
Gender Dynamics Skew Toward Male Bonding
- Landman often presents gender dynamics through a nostalgic, patriarchal lens that rewards male bonding scenes.
- Female characters frequently register as caricatures, creating a reverse Bechdel dynamic critics notice.
Civility Masks Violence And Profit
- Landman stages seductions of power via civilized rituals that mask violence and blood money.
- The show's glamorous men's-club scene undercuts civility by suggesting the polite veneer covers exploitation.
Explicit Heat Drives Viral Appeal
- Heated Rivalry stands out for erotic frankness blended with stylish visuals and strong chemistry.
- The show's explicit sexual depiction propelled its viral popularity and broad audience reach.