The Screen Companion

Six years before Game of Thrones, there was another sword and shield epic on HBO called Rome. Nudity? Check. Violence? Check. Political machinations? Check. Rome (2005-2007) did it better; while the series only lasted two seasons, it was spared the controversy and enmity that GoT engendered in its fandom. Guest: Stacey.

Foreign languages can be barriers, but everyone can relate to childhood struggles like being the new kid or having trouble connecting with parents. Let's dig into El Sur and My Life as a Dog—youth trauma, here we come! Truly, universal themes that transcend cultural boundaries. Guests: Max, Andrew & Jon.

Sometimes you've spent all day thinking hard and just want something ridiculous to watch—a movie you can latch onto in a few respects and ignore the rest of it in favor of pure entertainment. Baywatch, Road House, and Die Hard 2 didn't win Best Picture, but who cares? They're fun! Guests: Pat & Andrew.

It's rare that a movie captures a time, place, and culture all in one go like the Ice Cube classic Friday (1995). It represents South Central, the '90s, and black culture for many. When you want to see a different perspective, watch this comedy and get immersed! Guest: Stacey.