Stand-up Comedy Podcasts

The Joe Rogan Experience

Joe Rogan

The Joe Rogan Experience is a long-form, conversational journey that dives deep into the diverse facets of the human experience. With each episode, the show serves as a platform for open-ended exploration, where no topic is off-limits and curiosity is the primary driver of the discourse. Whether sitting down with legendary musicians, world-class combat athletes, investigative authors, or political thinkers, the podcast creates an environment where guests are encouraged to speak candidly and extensively about their specific areas of expertise. The show thrives on its versatility. One day you might be listening to a breakdown of ancient historical mysteries and the origins of civilization, and the next you are exploring the nuances of nutritional science, the intricacies of high-end technology, or the raw realities of the entertainment industry. A recurring theme across the catalog is the questioning of institutional narratives and a shared focus on individual health, autonomy, and the preservation of critical thinking in an increasingly digital and polarized world. Known for its marathon-length episodes, the podcast prioritizes depth over brevity, allowing for organic tangents that reveal the authentic perspectives of those at the top of their fields. It is a space built for those who value authentic dialogue, rigorous questioning, and the pursuit of truth, regardless of how complex or unconventional the subject matter may be. It remains an essential destination for listeners seeking long-form, thought-provoking conversation.

No Such Thing As A Fish

No Such Thing As A Fish

Ever wonder why some rats dream of travel, or how a Victorian parlor game transformed into the modern personality questionnaire? Welcome to No Such Thing As A Fish, the podcast where the world’s most eccentric, bizarre, and downright fascinating facts collide. Hosted by a team of researchers who spend their lives scouring the depths of human knowledge, each episode is a high-energy romp through the obscure corners of history, science, and pop culture. Whether they are dissecting the oddities of professional horse sheath cleaning, debating the architectural ingenuity of Barbra Streisand’s private basement mall, or investigating the historical obsession with Victorian hats, the hosts manage to make the most surreal topics feel essential. You will find a perfect blend of rigorous research and lighthearted banter, often joined by special guests who bring their own unique curiosities to the table. For those who crave even more, the Little Fish bonus episodes offer a delightful community-focused experience, where listener-submitted trivia takes center stage. From the physics of air pressure to the strange mating habits of spiny anteaters, the show celebrates the sheer weirdness of our planet. It is an intellectual playground for the perpetually curious, proving that the more you know, the more you realize that truth is always stranger—and funnier—than fiction. Pull up a chair and prepare to become the most interesting person at any dinner party.

The Rest Is Entertainment

Goalhanger

Ever wondered why some reality stars have more cultural sway than Hollywood legends, or why a simple movie title can make or break a blockbuster? Welcome to The Rest Is Entertainment, where hosts Marina Hyde and Richard Osman peel back the curtain on the weird, wonderful, and occasionally baffling world of modern media. This isn’t your typical industry recap. Each episode feels like a witty, fireside chat between two people who have spent their lives observing the gears of fame, film, and television. Whether they are debating the merits of 90s US sitcoms, dissecting the latest celebrity wedding spectacle, or analyzing the strange, global reach of reality TV formats like Love Island, the pair brings a sharp, analytical eye to the trivial and the monumental alike. The show excels at connecting the dots between pop culture phenomena and the deeper societal shifts happening behind the scenes. From special deep-dive interviews with icons like Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg to lighthearted listener Q&A sessions that explore everything from obscure movie trivia to the potential of a politician becoming an indie-rock idol, the content is as eclectic as it is intelligent. If you are looking for a smart, conversational guide to what we watch, why we watch it, and how the entertainment industry is constantly reinventing itself, you have found your new weekly obsession. Expect deep insights, clever hypotheticals, and the kind of sharp wit that makes the business of show business make sense.

Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

Plosive

Step into the dream restaurant, where the menu is limited only by your imagination and the service is provided by two of Britain’s most opinionated foodies. Comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster host this wildly popular podcast, inviting guests to choose their ultimate dream meal, from the sparkling water they prefer to their final dessert. While the premise sounds simple, the reality is a chaotic, hilarious, and often surreal deep dive into the psyche of some of the world’s most recognizable performers. Whether they are hosting intimate sit-downs with Hollywood stars like Anna Faris or welcoming back comedy favorites for high-energy live specials, Ed and James navigate every conversation with their signature blend of sharp wit and petty interrogations. The show thrives on unpredictability, veering from passionate debates about the perfect focaccia or the ethics of the buffet line to absurdly specific tangents about childhood mysteries, celebrity encounters, and bizarre hypotheticals. Beyond the food, this is a show about the weird and wonderful ways we experience the world. From the tasting menu series—where guests are forced to critique the eccentric choices of their peers—to reflective chats about career journeys and personal histories, Off Menu is as much a comedy masterclass as it is a culinary adventure. It is an unmissable, frequently absurd, and consistently funny exploration of friendship and appetite that will leave you laughing and likely feeling quite hungry.

SmartLess

Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

SmartLess is the ultimate playground for three of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. In this hit series, the trio invites some of the most influential and interesting figures from the worlds of film, music, and comedy for conversations that feel less like traditional interviews and more like hanging out with friends. Each episode begins with the hosts’ signature brand of playful, improvised banter—covering everything from their personal living habits and fashion dilemmas to their latest cultural curiosities—before they dive into the deeper narratives that define their guests' lives. Whether they are sitting down with global icons like Tom Hanks and Jennifer Lopez or visionary artists like Sting and Emma Thompson, the hosts peel back the curtain on the creative process and the grit required to make it in the entertainment industry. You will hear poignant stories about the pivotal moments that shaped these stars, from early struggles in the improv circuit to the pressure of sudden fame and the importance of maintaining authenticity. The show excels at balancing humor with genuine introspection, exploring how high-profile performers navigate family life, professional reinvention, and the evolving nature of their craft. If you are looking for a show that is consistently candid, unpredictable, and deeply human, SmartLess offers a front-row seat to the authentic personalities behind the red-carpet personas.

Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend

Team Coco & Earwolf

After decades of commanding the late-night stage, Conan O’Brien is stepping away from the monologue to find out what happens when he ditches the script and simply talks to people. In Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, the legendary comedian engages in long-form, unscripted conversations that feel less like professional interviews and more like intimate, hilarious hangs. Joined by his longtime assistant Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley, Conan creates a space where the guard comes down, allowing for a mix of absurdity, profound reflection, and genuine human connection. The show is defined by its unpredictability. One moment, you might find the team trekking through Morocco or debating the merits of cannabis edibles, and the next, they are diving into the technical nuances of kinetic art, intimacy coordination, or classical music with world-class guests. Whether he is trading stories with A-list entertainers like Danny McBride and Patton Oswalt or exploring the unconventional life paths of animators and sculptors, Conan treats every guest with curiosity and his signature self-deprecating wit. What makes the podcast stand out is its relentless focus on the "why" and "how" behind the public persona. It is a show about the creative process, the challenges of fame, and the messy, beautiful reality of life, all held together by the undeniable chemistry of a team that thrives on mutual teasing and spontaneous tangents. If you are looking for a show that is as likely to make you think as it is to make you laugh until you cry, you have found your new favorite series.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

The Ringer

Pull up a chair and settle in for a conversation that feels exactly like the title suggests. In Good Hang, host Amy Poehler invites some of the most compelling voices in entertainment—from cinematic legends like Matt Damon and Colman Domingo to comedic powerhouses like Mindy Kaling and Sarah Sherman—for intimate, unscripted dialogues that bypass the typical press-tour polish. The magic of this show lies in its depth. Rather than sticking to the standard career-recap format, Amy cultivates a space where guests share the formative moments that shaped them: the lessons learned in early service jobs, the evolution of creative partnerships, and the quiet struggles of navigating fame while staying grounded. You will hear about the surprising intersection of dance and social anxiety, the importance of long-term friendships in an unpredictable industry, and the radical act of choosing gratitude over ambition. Each episode is uniquely structured, often beginning with a guest’s friend or collaborator who offers a heartfelt window into the interviewee’s true character before the main conversation begins. Whether discussing the chaos of a writers’ room, the complexities of aging in the public eye, or the shared Midwestern roots that ground so many of these stars, the show is consistently warm, funny, and profoundly observant. It is a heartfelt look at the people behind the projects, celebrating the vulnerability, work ethic, and genuine human connections that make great art possible.

How Did This Get Made?

Earwolf and Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, Jason Mantzoukas

Have you ever watched a movie so baffling, poorly constructed, or unintentionally hilarious that you had to ask yourself, How did this get made? You are not alone. Join hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas as they embrace the disaster, taking a deep dive into the absolute worst, most bizarre, and frequently unwatchable films in cinematic history. Each episode acts as a comedic autopsy. The hosts and their rotating cast of hilarious guests dissect every questionable decision, from nonsensical plot holes and cartoonish physics to bizarre casting choices and catastrophic scripts. Whether they are tackling high-budget action flops, confusing indie experiments, or forgotten genre relics, the team leaves no stone unturned. You will hear them marvel at everything from 1990s rollerblading aesthetics to the strange, low-stakes tension of extreme sports thrillers. The show is more than just a roast; it is an investigation into the creative failures and eccentric artistic choices that result in movie-making madness. With recurring segments like Last Looks—where the panel revisits listener feedback, corrections, and fascinating behind-the-scenes trivia—the podcast evolves into a sprawling, interactive journey. It is a celebration of the absurdity of show business and a reminder that, sometimes, the most entertaining part of a movie isn't the story on screen, but the utter confusion it leaves behind. If you love dissecting pop culture disasters with infectious, unfiltered energy, this is your ultimate cinematic companion.

Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4

Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4 is your essential weekly antidote to the relentless churn of the news cycle. Bringing together some of the sharpest satirical minds in Britain, this showcase series serves as a comedic lens through which to view the chaotic state of modern life. Whether it is through the rapid-fire impressions of Dead Ringers, the panel-based intellectual sparring of The News Quiz, or the raw, live energy of The Naked Week, the show transforms the day’s headlines into a playground for wit and absurdity. Each episode delves into the peculiarities of Westminster politics, dissecting leadership dramas, government gaffes, and the strange, performative nature of public discourse. Beyond the halls of power, the program embraces a broader cultural curiosity, poking fun at the rigid tropes of sports broadcasting, the over-dramatization of investigative podcasts, and the bizarre nature of global events. The recurring strength of the series lies in its ability to pivot from biting political critique to surreal, hypothetical scenarios that capture the absurdity of contemporary existence. With a blend of lightning-fast sketches, hilarious mimicry, and informed, irreverent commentary, this collection provides a witty refuge for anyone looking to make sense of the world while having a good laugh at its expense. It is consistently bold, unapologetically clever, and the perfect way to wrap up a long week of news.

THE ADAM BUXTON PODCAST

ADAM BUXTON

Step into the world of The Adam Buxton Podcast, where the art of the rambling, long-form conversation is elevated to something truly special. Hosted by comedian and filmmaker Adam Buxton, this show invites listeners along for a series of incredibly candid, often funny, and deeply human chats with some of the most influential figures in music, comedy, and literature. Whether he is taking a stroll through London with a guest or sitting down in a studio for a deep dive into a creative career, Adam creates an environment where boundaries dissolve. You will hear iconic artists like Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett open up about their collaborative processes, while actors like Kathy Burke and Harry Enfield reflect on the evolution of British culture and their own personal journeys through fame and fatherhood. The beauty of the show lies in its spontaneity. It moves fluidly from the profound—discussing grief, the nature of creativity, and the complexities of parenting—to the delightfully absurd, including lighthearted debates about daily habits or the oddities of the modern digital landscape. With a tone that is perpetually warm, self-deprecating, and thoughtful, Adam provides a space where his guests can drop their guard. It is an essential listen for anyone who appreciates the joy of a good story, the value of staying present, and the enduring power of genuine connection in an increasingly fast-paced world.

Richard Herring's Leicester Square Theatre Podcast (RHLSTP)

Sky Potato, Go Faster Stripe and Fuzz Productions

Welcome to the world of RHLSTP, the award-winning series hosted by comedian Richard Herring. Recorded live at the Leicester Square Theatre, this show serves as a masterclass in the art of the long-form interview. Whether he is dissecting the careers of legendary performers like Harry Shearer and Mark Gatiss, exploring the musical evolution of stars like Suggs, or hosting deep-dive book club chats with authors like Cally Beaton and Olly Smith, Richard brings a unique blend of curiosity, mischief, and genuine warmth to every encounter. The podcast thrives on its versatility. You might find yourself immersed in a heartfelt tribute to comedy icons like Rick Mayall, listening to an candid exploration of life in your sixties, or laughing along with the rapid-fire, absurdist satire of Rich and Ally’s Craven Newsround. Richard has a rare ability to balance professional insight with complete nonsense, often using surreal humor to break the ice with his high-profile guests. Beyond the laughter, the show is remarkably grounded. It frequently tackles the realities of the creative life, from the grind of the independent comedy circuit to the challenges of aging and the importance of resilience. Whether through hilarious improvised segments or reflective, career-spanning conversations, RHLSTP remains an essential destination for anyone who loves comedy, theatre, and authentic, unscripted storytelling. Join the conversation and discover why this series remains a cornerstone of the UK comedy landscape.

This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von

Theo Von

This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von is an unpredictable, deeply human exploration of the modern condition. Each episode finds the comedian inviting a wide array of guests—ranging from legendary actors and professional athletes to politicians, whistleblowers, and fellow storytellers—into a space that encourages raw, unfiltered conversation. Whether he is dissecting the complexities of political systems with a U.S. Senator or unraveling the nature of trauma and recovery with a mentor, Theo approaches every dialogue with a signature blend of absurdist humor, sharp intuition, and genuine curiosity. What sets the show apart is its unique rhythm; it is equal parts comedy and catharsis. You might find yourself laughing at bizarre tales about regional wildlife or the comedy circuit in one moment, and reflecting on profound themes like the struggle for authenticity, the challenges of parenthood, and the psychological weight of fame in the next. The podcast serves as a living, breathing stream-of-consciousness where the focus is consistently on the human experience—its absurdity, its darkness, and its occasional moments of grace. Between his solo reflections and his high-profile interviews, Theo creates an intimate, almost campfire-like atmosphere. It is a show for anyone who enjoys peeling back the layers of a guest’s public persona to find the real person underneath, all while keeping a steady pulse on the strange, ever-changing nature of the world we live in today.

Three Bean Salad

Three Bean Salad

Three Bean Salad is a masterclass in the art of the glorious, unstructured tangent. Hosted by comedians Mike Wozniak, Henry Paker, and Benjamin Partridge, the show begins with the humble premise of tackling a listener-suggested theme—be it the Roman Empire, seaside towns, or the peculiar history of the circus—but rarely stays on course for long. What makes this podcast essential listening is the trio’s unparalleled ability to spiral. A casual inquiry into martial arts might mutate into a heated debate about sponge maintenance, while a reflection on the Roman Empire inevitably gives way to questioning why humans move counter-clockwise in supermarkets. The beans possess a unique comedic chemistry that turns mundane grievances—like wrestling with corporate bureaucracy over a faulty laptop or the existential dread of garbage chutes—into sprawling, surreal, and high-stakes narratives. Whether they are deconstructing the dark folk tales of the Brothers Grimm, debating the medicinal efficacy of vitamins, or brainstorming the powers of a rural superhero named Pig Boy, the conversation is always sharp, absurd, and deeply relatable. The show feels like eavesdropping on a conversation between three friends who are as likely to offer a profound philosophical insight as they are to recount a bizarre, nonsensical anecdote about their local neighborhoods. It is a warm, witty, and wonderfully unpredictable exploration of the trivialities and curiosities of modern life.

Elis James and John Robins

Significant Productions

Welcome to the world of Elis James and John Robins, a podcast where the trivialities of daily life are elevated to epic proportions through sharp wit, genuine friendship, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. Since their transition from the airwaves to the podcast format, this comedic duo has created a space where nothing is too mundane to be debated, dissected, or mocked. Whether they are navigating the frustrations of modern technology, recounting bizarre travel mishaps, or analyzing the complexities of growing older, the conversation always feels intimate, relatable, and hilariously unscripted. Listeners are invited into a unique community defined by recurring features like the Cymru Connection, where Elis attempts (with varying degrees of success) to find a shared link with Welsh callers, and a steady stream of listener correspondence that keeps the hosts grounded. You will hear them tackle everything from the perils of fancy dining and workplace hazards to creative, often ridiculous, side projects and reflections on their professional journeys in broadcasting and comedy. What makes this show truly stand out is the undeniable chemistry between Elis and John. It is a masterclass in observational humor, balancing high-stakes creative ambitions—like sold-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall—with the simple joy of finding a decent local farm shop. If you are looking for a show that feels like a long, meandering catch-up with your funniest friends, you have found your new obsession.

Help I Sexted My Boss

Audio Always

Ever wonder if you are the only one navigating the bewildering, often embarrassing minefield of modern life? Enter Help I Sexted My Boss, the podcast where etiquette expert William Hanson and broadcaster Jordan North come together to provide the ultimate survival guide. This show is a hilarious, chaotic, and oddly comforting collision of two very different worlds. William brings the refinement of traditional manners and historical context, while Jordan offers the unfiltered, relatable perspective of a man just trying to get through the day without a social catastrophe. Each episode is a masterclass in lighthearted absurdity. Whether they are dissecting a listener’s mortifying encounter with a secret stash of Viagra, debating the proper usage of a fish knife, or navigating the social landmines of workplace banter, the chemistry between the pair is electric. You will find yourself laughing out loud at their recurring segments like Normal or Nah, where they put the most bizarre listener dilemmas to the test. Beyond the belly laughs, the duo tackles the nuances of human connection with genuine heart, offering thoughtful advice on everything from family dynamics to intimate relationships. It is the perfect blend of high-brow critique and low-brow fun, proving that no matter how awkward your predicament, you are certainly not alone. Tune in for the banter, stay for the wisdom, and enjoy the ride as these two navigate the hilarious idiosyncrasies of being human.

Smosh Reads Reddit Stories

Smosh

Welcome to Smosh Reads Reddit Stories, your go-to destination for unpacking the wildest, most baffling, and deeply relatable tales from the frontlines of the internet. Hosted by the Smosh crew, this show turns every episode into a digital armchair psychology session where no drama is too small and no interpersonal conflict is too complex to dissect. Whether it is a workplace ethical crisis, a bizarre dating deal-breaker, or an explosive argument over boundary-crossing in long-term relationships, the hosts lean into the chaos with a perfect blend of sharp wit, empathy, and hilarious commentary. You will hear them tackle everything from the absurd—like boyfriends triggered by mozzarella cheese shapes—to the genuinely heavy, such as navigating inheritance guilt or the complexities of modern parenthood. What sets this show apart is the team’s ability to pivot seamlessly from lighthearted roasting to insightful, grounded advice. They consistently highlight the importance of communication, gut instincts, and healthy boundaries, all while keeping the vibe fun and conversational. Each episode feels like hanging out with friends, dissecting the latest viral threads while trying to solve the puzzle of why people behave the way they do. If you have a penchant for "Am I The Asshole" drama and want a candid, unfiltered take on the intricacies of human behavior, you have found your new favorite rabbit hole. Tune in, get comfortable, and prepare to be shocked by the sheer audacity of the internet.

The Romesh Ranganathan Show

Ranga Bee / Listen

Step into the world of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, where razor-sharp comedy meets heartfelt, unscripted connection. Hosted by acclaimed comedian Romesh Ranganathan, this podcast offers a refreshing mix of high-profile guest interviews and the beautifully chaotic, recurring Thursday sessions featuring his mother, Shanti. The show excels at striking a perfect balance between the profound and the ridiculous. When Romesh sits down with global icons—ranging from country-pop legend Shania Twain and hip-hop star Eve to creative powerhouses like Jemaine Clement—he peels back the curtain on their careers, moving beyond standard promotional questions to uncover the human stories behind the fame. Whether discussing the pressures of the entertainment industry or the realities of life in the UK, these conversations are candid, insightful, and consistently funny. However, the real heart of the podcast lies in the episodes with Shanti. These sessions are a masterclass in chemistry, as the duo tackles listener dilemmas, cultural quirks, and bizarre lifestyle observations with equal vigor. From debating the etiquette of going shirtless in public to deep-diving into philosophical questions like the Ship of Theseus or their own personal love languages, their dynamic is both relatable and endearing. Expect plenty of good-natured banter, warm wisdom, and a unique perspective on everything from family life to current events. It is essential listening for anyone who loves an authentic, laugh-out-loud conversation that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Lateral with Tom Scott

Tom Scott and David Bodycombe

Lateral with Tom Scott is an invitation to explore the world’s most delightful, bizarre, and overlooked mysteries. Each week, Tom brings together a panel of three guests—ranging from comedians and authors to scientists and experts—to tackle a series of unconventional lateral thinking puzzles. There are no points, no prizes, and no competitive stakes here. Instead, the focus is entirely on the joy of collaborative deduction and the satisfaction of uncovering the "why" behind the weirdest facts of human history and design. The show thrives on its signature blend of intellectual mischief and genuine curiosity. You might find yourself learning why pilots use specific plastic spheres in an Airbus cockpit, how archaeologists use currency to date field sites, or the unexpected reason why a musician might use a button and string to refine their embouchure. Whether the topic is the history of the Vulcan salute, the strange branding tactics of formula one drivers, or how a simple hotel coat hanger can guarantee a better night’s sleep, the conversation is always sharp, conversational, and surprisingly educational. Lateral is designed for those who love to look at the world from a different angle. It celebrates the creative, often hilarious process of solving real-world riddles that challenge your assumptions. If you enjoy deep dives into the quirks of geography, technology, and human behavior, this is your weekly guide to the wonderfully unpredictable details of the world around us.

Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe

Keep It Light Media / Spotify Studios

Parenting Hell is the ultimate audio companion for anyone currently in the trenches of raising children. Hosted by comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe, the show is a brilliant, unfiltered look at the reality of modern fatherhood. Each week, the duo navigates the chaotic, often hilarious, and frequently exhausting milestones of family life—from managing school run logistics and navigating the absurdity of children’s hobbies to the frantic, low-stakes crises that define life as a parent. Whether they are commiserating over the perils of doom scrolling, debating the merits of playground etiquette, or dissecting the unique stress of holiday travel with toddlers, Rob and Josh offer a perfect mix of self-deprecating humor and genuine vulnerability. The podcast seamlessly blends spontaneous, rambling banter about their own lives with insightful conversations featuring a wide variety of guests. These interviews move beyond the professional veneer, touching on the emotional challenges of raising kids, the complexities of maintaining a relationship, and the struggle to retain a sense of self amidst the "parenting juggle." With recurring segments that spark listener participation and an honest approach to the highs and lows of the domestic grind, the show is essentially a support group disguised as a comedy hour. It is a candid, deeply relatable, and consistently funny exploration of the messy, unpredictable, and rewarding nature of bringing up young children, proving that while parenthood may be hell, you might as well laugh while you are in it.

Museum of Pop Culture with Josh Widdicombe

Keep It Light Media

Welcome to the Museum of Pop Culture with Josh Widdicombe, your audio gallery for the most fascinating, bizarre, and ambitious stories from the world of entertainment. Hosted by comedian Josh Widdicombe, this show is a deep dive into the cultural milestones that shaped our collective memory. Whether it is the legendary chaos behind the making of Apocalypse Now, the baffling rise and fall of the Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark musical, or the enduring Aussie charm of Neighbours, Josh and his guests peel back the layers on projects that define the thin line between creative genius and absolute catastrophe. The podcast operates as a multi-part detective series for pop culture junkies. You will not just hear the headlines; you will get the full, unfiltered story—from the technical nightmares and safety hazards of Broadway’s most expensive failures to the intense psychological toll of filming in the Philippine jungle. By blending historical trivia with sharp wit and a healthy dose of nostalgia, the show examines the socio-political climates, the artistic ego, and the massive risks that fuel our favorite (and most infamous) cultural icons. If you have ever wondered how a global sensation starts or why a massive project crumbles under its own weight, step inside the museum. It is informative, hilarious, and the perfect place to obsess over the stories behind the screen.