Shows
Downton Gabby[109] THE GILDED AGE S03 E01-04 ~ Something BlueTemperance! Divorce! Suffrage! Broken coffee cup! Makeouts in carriages! Clocks! Mediums! Questionable frocks! Sisters! Even more Broadway stars!
An exciting season brings regime change at the Van Rhijn–er, Forte household, bold new opportunities for work and love for Peggy, and the culmination of the ultimate marriage plot!
Will Peggy find true love with the Hot Doctor, or will his snooty mama get in the way? Will the new Duchess triumph? Is the Russell marriage in trouble? Is Larry a cad or just clueless about public canoodling? Will Bertha’s sister Monica stick around (even if she does dress like the...2025-07-1653 min
Piece of WorkWhatever You Have to Say, Someone is Waiting to Hear It, with Shannon BowenBrandi chats with Monsoon Leadership CEO Shannon Bowen about all things email newsletter: the intersection of professional, personal, and creative writing styles; finding the tools to get started; building an authentic relationship with the reader; and having the confidence to let your project evolve over time.You can find Shannon (and subscribe to her excellent newsletter!) at Monsoon Leadership or on LinkedIn.2025-02-1948 minPiece of WorkSaying Yes To Everything, with Dan Hwang and Gina SuBrandi welcomes actors Gina Su and Dan Hwang to the show to discuss their experience playing siblings Lizzie Wong & Wes Wong in the new thriller Trapped in the Rocky Mountains, on which Brandi was the screenwriter! They discuss the process of making an ensemble film full of tense group scenes, the joys and challenges of set life in Montana, and the landscape of opportunities for Asian actors in today's Hollywood (spoiler: it could be better!).Trapped in the Rocky Mountains was directed by Patricia Frontain, shot by cinematographer John Sweeney, and premieres on Lifetime on August 18, 2024.Gina...2024-08-1443 minPiece of WorkEndless Amounts of Sugar-Free Red Bull, with Henry Darrow McComasBrandi welcomes back writer-director-producer Henry Darrow McComas to discuss his narrative feature debut, horror gem The Camp Host, which debuted in March 2024 on Tubi. They talk about how the project landed at the streamer, the collaborative efforts that helped it punch above its budget, and pursuing career milestones like making a feature without the help of an agent or manager.Follow Henry on Twitter or Instagram for much more about The Camp Host and future projects.2024-04-2451 minPiece of WorkTrickle-Down Happiness, with Myles WardenBrandi chats with TV writer Myles Warden about his experience co-writing two episodes of the sitcom Act Your Age, collaborating within a writing team as well as with everyone on set, and the possibilities for innovation within the multi-cam comedy format.You can find Myles on Twitter at @ReallyMighty.2024-03-1337 minPiece of WorkA Non-Heroic Protagonist, with Jelena WoehrBrandi sits down with TV writer Jelena Woehr to discuss her pilot script Reconstruction, the dreaded question of the difficult female protagonist, and the joys and pains of revising with a focus on what could actually get the project made. You can find Jelena on Twitter at @jelenawoehr, as well as at jelenawoehr.com.2024-01-0347 minPiece of WorkThe Puzzle That You Made for Yourself, with Ryan D. MatthewsBrandi chats with novelist Ryan D. Matthews about his current project, how he seeks to explore various themes that relate to his rural upbringing, and the challenges of storytelling in novel format.**Content warning: this episode includes discussions of gun violence.You can find links to Ryan's work at his website, ryandmatthews.com.2023-12-1743 min
Downton Gabby[106] THE GILDED AGE S02 E05-06 ~ I Do...If You Really Want Me ToLove is blooming everywhere in New York, but also dying awkwardly in the botanical gardens. Our hearts swell and break for Ada and cringe for Marion. Meanwhile George's heart might be softening to the working man. But on the opera battlefield, the blades are sharp and the cuts are deep. How much blood will be spilled for the center box?! Whether you want homebrewed coffee or broth supped from a spoon, raise a glass for the dramatic twists and turns only Uncle Julian can bring, one alarm clock at a time.
One favorite thing:
Shannon - The Empress (Netflix)
Brandi...2023-12-0749 minPiece of WorkI Understand It In My Head, with Therese ShechterBrandi does a deep dive with documentary filmmaker Therese Shechter on the years-long process of making her film "My So-Called Selfish Life," how she tackles covering an expansive social issue in the form of a film, and whether she'll ever take on such a big project again.Find more about Therese's work at trixiefilms.com.2023-10-221h 00
The Social Screenwriters PodcastWriting a Movie for Lifetime with Brandi Sperry (TAKEN IN MONTANA)Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, I'm talking to screenwriter, Brandi Sperry! Brandi is the screenwriter of the TV movie, TAKEN IN MONTANA, which premiered on Lifetime in September 2023. She a multi-genre writer who writes in both the TV and film formats. In the episode, she talks about her projects, her writing process, and a disdain for praise! Give it a listen, like, follow, subscribe, say something nice on Twitter/Instagram and remember to tag us, @SocialWriterPod! If you'd like to support us with a donation, you can now do so by going to our Linktree in the...2023-10-111h 30Piece of WorkThe Delusion Is Real, with Andy ComptonBrandi's guest this episode is the talented filmmaker Andy Compton. They discuss the making of his short film Captcha, the filmmaking community in St. Louis, and the mix of delusion and determination needed to chase the Hollywood dream.2023-09-1759 minPiece of WorkA Weird Liminal Space, with Ceda XiongBrandi’s guest this episode is the insightful and hilarious Ceda Xiong. They discuss staying persistent and flexible while trying to get something made in Hollywood, as Ceda describes the journey of her project Road Dick, which started as a podcast pitch before shifting into a half-hour TV pilot script, and may still be evolving to a new form.2023-09-0348 minPiece of WorkIf I'm Telling the Story, It Has to Be True, with Sutton StrotherBrandi chats with the writer Sutton Strother about their brilliant and creepy short story "Passage," some works that have inspired them, and what creating in the medium of short stories can teach a writer.Read "Passage" at Uncharted Mag.Find more of Sutton's fantastic work on their website.2023-07-3037 minPiece of WorkIt Felt Like a Heist, with Henry Darrow McComasBrandi chats with multi-hyphenate filmmaker Henry Darrow McComas about directing the horror short film Off Track, the joys of collaborating on a set, and lessons learned from the moments that could have gone better.Off Track is available to view on YouTube.Follow Henry on Twitter.2023-06-2539 minPiece of WorkSetting Bricks in a Wall, with Lynn SternbergerBrandi is joined by the talented TV writer Lynn Sternberger to discuss her pilot script Shelter, from its unusual beginnings to continued hopes for its future.An excerpt from Shelter is available on the podcast website. While you don't need to read before listening, it might enhance the experience!Follow Lynn on Twitter.Follow Brandi on Twitter.2023-06-1137 minPiece of WorkDon't Mean to Sound Mystical, with Bryn GribbenIn the very first episode of Piece of Work, host Brandi Sperry welcomes poet, essayist, Victorianist, and all-around fascinating person Bryn Gribben to discuss a piece from her recent essay collection Amplified Heart: An Emotional Discography.Amplified Heart is available for purchase at many fine retailers, including Barnes and Noble, as well as directly from the publisher Otherwords Press.2023-05-2953 min
Downton Gabby[103] THE GILDED AGE Season 1, E08-09 ~ Bustle Battles, Broken HeartsWe've reached the final stretch of the debut season of The Gilded Age -- young ladies are coming out, old ladies are crossing streets, and secrets are being revealed! The scent of wealth is in the air from the beaches of Newport to the ballrooms of New York (but it seems no amount of money can buy reliable help these days). The damsels are happy with a strong season ending, and we have many hopes, wishes, and theories for season two to come. Join us for one more round of Gilded Gabby!
One fabulous thing:
Brandi: The Dropout (Hulu)
Therese...2022-03-2545 minDownton Gabby[102] The Gilded Age S01 E04-07 ~ Bright Lights, Bags of ShoesDownton Gabby aka Gilded Gabby is back and analyzing episodes 4 - 7 of Uncle Julian's latest show "The Gilded Age"! The damsels cringe over Marian's faux pas and Ward McAllister's accent, and pit frisky adventurer Mr. Raikes against Peggy's hunky editor Mr Fortune. We wonder if we'll see any more of Turner's breasts, marvel at Agnes' hilarious silent treatment, and covet Bertha's red opera cape. Welcome back old friends! Marvel at your electric lights, pour a snifter of brandy, face away from Bannister, and let's dig into New York money politics!
One fabulous thing:
Brandi: Tournament of Champions (Food Network)
Therese...2022-03-1240 min
Downton Gabby[100] Downton Abbey Movie - Downton: A New HopeThe movie! The movie! Shannon, Brandi and Therese are so excited to reunite to talk about the brand new Downton Abbey movie. We couldn’t be more excited–and worried. The chairs need to be set up! Edith’s ball gown is missing! The servants are revolting! And the King and Queen are coming to Downton! On the plus side…#BoyfriendForBarrow.
Join us for all the the sweet, silly, gorgeous, ridiculous details of what we seriously hope will be the first of many more Downton Movies. So put on your tiaras (It’s OK even if you’re not married) and join us...2019-09-2644 minDownton Gabby[99b] REPLAY Season 6, Post-Finale Celebration: #LADA[Season 6, Post-Finale Celebration] - Withdrawal, denial, grief...There's a Crawley-shaped hole in our Sunday nights, so we're excited that some of our smartest, funniest listeners are helping us deal with Life After Downton Abbey. This 'Very Special Podcast' features your memories, questions and wisecracks about things like: That extremely short period of time when we actually liked Bates; The long and fractious friendship of besties4ever Isobel and Violet; and all those scary appliances, cunning devices, and stylish ladypants that showed us just how inevitable change was. A huge thank you to this show's contributors*, as well as to all o...2019-09-091h 05Downton Gabby[99a] REPLAY Season 6, Series Finale: Happy Endings[Season 6, Series Finale] - No more secrets, no more lies-just happiness bursting on the series finale of our beloved Downton Abbey. As the captains of #TeamEdith, we wave our flags as she leaps over the final hurdle to her ride into the sunset (the dreaded mother-in-law test) and crosses the finish line with a gold medal. You are woman, Edith! Go forth and conquer. Meanwhile, cottages abound, relationships are restored, and everyone (who's straight) is headed for a wedding (if Isobel can break her beloved out of his plaid bathrobe prison) And in other "excitement": Daisy gets a haircut; Thomas...2019-08-2848 minDownton Gabby[98] Life After Downton - My Brilliant Frenemy[Life After Downton, Episode 23] - You know the damsels never miss a chance to talk about female friendship, so we were eager and excited to talk about the new HBO series My Brilliant Friend. For chapter one of this saga of Elena and Lila, not all of us think their bond is always believable, but are we intrigued enough to follow them further in their adventures? We wrap up this last show of 2018 by highlighting a few recent movies we loved enough to call them One Fabulous Thing. Get yourself just a drop of celebratory wine and join us for...2018-12-1746 minDownton Gabby[97] Life After Downton - Comfort Viewing[Life After Downton, Episode 22] - It's hard times out there in the world these days. Luckily, pop culture offers us multiple ways to take a break from reality, and on this episode the damsels are sharing their favorite methods of escapism. Join as we journey from hundreds of years in the past to hundreds of years in the future to hang out with characters who are a lot more fun than the ones in the news.
But first, we take some time to check in on Downton Abbey movie news (as well as fantasize about receiving our invites to the...2018-11-0442 minDownton Gabby[96] Life After Downton - Crazy Fun Ensembles[Life After Downton, Episode 21] - The damsels slip on their emerald rings and gold jumpsuits to discuss the hit film Crazy Rich Asians. Avid fans of the books, they compare what works and what's missing in the film version - but overall gush about the beautiful men in the film. Then the damsels discuss their favorite ensemble films from the last 80 years (just a short span of time!). Pop open the bubbly, put on your disco Cleopatra dress, and let's gossip about all of the family members!2018-09-0950 minDownton Gabby[95] Life After Downton - Return to Downton![Life After Downton, Episode 20] - It's official! The Downton Abbey movie goes into production this September and the Damsels couldn't be more excited. We also have some THOUGHTS. We're throwing out our wildest predictions and fondest hopes, and tossing our own script suggestions Julian's way (it's never too late to reveal Edith is really Rosumund's daughter !)
Then, we talk about some exciting upcoming women-centric shows featuring some of our favorite actors and creators. Get that tiara out of the family vault and ask the footman to uncork some champagne because we're talking Downton Abbey Movie!2018-08-1225 minDownton Gabby[94] Life After Downton - Plum Tired[Life After Downton, Episode 19] - Let's just admit: it's rough out there in the real world these days. On this episode, the damsels discuss how the current political climate is affecting what we want from pop culture. Sure, season two of The Handmaid's Tale is just as well made as the first, but is the bleak storytelling doing us any good as viewers? And on the new show Dietland, are the feminist messages getting lost in the noise? What kinds of stories about women do we as TV fans hope to see on our screens as the production cycle catches...2018-07-0352 minDownton Gabby[93] Life After Downton - Killer Ambition[Life After Downton, Episode 18] - The damsels delve in the brilliant, twisted world of the new show Killing Eve, check back in on the new season of Westworld, and have some thoughts to share on the latest season of Call the Midwife.
Some of these shows we loved, some them of them we hated, and some we disagree on–just to keep it interesting!
So put on your lipstick, pour a shot of whiskey (or just drink those warm dregs of last night's martini), and enjoy the latest Downton Gabby podcast!
One Fabulous Things:
Ship It by Britta Lundin
Crazy Ri...2018-05-2053 minDownton Gabby[92] Life After Downton - Liz & Midge[Life After Downton, Episode 17] - In our first episode of 2018, the damsels are so pleased to be back and, as always, are ready to share some opinions! We have shows to look back on and shows to look forward to–but first, one exciting Downton Abbey-related adventure to share.
In our main topic, we discuss two series that hit streaming at the end of 2017: The Crown Season Two and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season One. Period pieces about proper brunette ladies in the late 1950s...that couldn't be more different from one another.
On The Crown, there's plenty to love bu...2018-02-1151 minDownton Gabby[91] Life After Downton - No Man's Land[Life After Downton, Episode 16] - Call it the Wicked Switch of the West: Netflix's Godless was sold as a Western about a town made up of and run by women. What we got was...something else.
In this podcast, we talk about what we liked (ladies in pants! with guns!), what we hated (endless speechifying by the men), and how we'd rewrite it (we have a screenplay to pitch you). Also, is promoting how feminist something is the new thing? We're flattered.
Then we go farther west to Sacramento to discuss the smart and delightful film Lady Bird, starring Saoirse...2017-12-0546 minDownton Gabby[90] Life After Downton - Believe Women[Life After Downton, Episode 15] - Content warning: this episode contains discussions of several depictions of sexual assault against fictional characters.
This month on the podcast, the Damsels have a lot to rant about in a post-Harvey-Weinstein-scandal media world.
After some round-up from our month off, we're diving into two series that deal with violence against women: Jane Campion and Gerard Lee's Top of the Lake, and Harry and Jack Williams's Liar. Frankly, we have to say...we demand better. Why bring up important themes you don't intend to explore adequately? Why take all the nuance out of the threats women fac...2017-10-2648 minDownton Gabby[89] Life After Downton - Cousin of Dragons[Life After Downton, Episode 14] - Season 7 of Game of Thrones is done and we have issues!! Like how mopey Jon Snow (or Aegon Targaryen, or whatever your name is) is just one of those mediocre guys who gets his ass saved over and over again by better women and then gets promoted over them anyway!
Also: A Game of Thrones/The Crown mashup, what the hell happened at Winterfell between the Stark siblings, some Brienne/Tormond shipping (please don't be dead!), who should actually be dead (aside from Jon Snow), and why Cersei and Bron never appear on screen together...2017-09-0144 minDownton Gabby[88] Life After Downton - Women On Top[Life After Downton, Episode 13] - The damsels are faced with a situation they have never encountered--so many women are ruling TV, leading armies, reigning over nations, and body slamming other badass women. It's Christmas every week on TV this summer for us feminist gals.
Kicking off the new season of Game of Thrones, the damsels are overjoyed by the number of women kicking ass and of the men who defer to them. Add a dash of women in sparkly leotards wrestling each other in the new super-fun show Glow and finish it off with one of our fave comedic ladies...2017-07-2955 minDownton Gabby[87] Life After Downton - Fight Like A Girl[Life After Downton, Episode 12] - The damsels kick off this month's conversation with some follow-up about the future of two previously discussed shows (good news for the midwives! Not good news for the sensates...). Then we're checking in on the continuing first season of The Handmaid's Tale and making sure we've properly fangirled over the work of Reed Morano.
The praise of female directors continues with the main event: Wonder Woman has finally arrived! Those Amazonian weapons! That no-nonsense attitude! The cascading locks! The dreamy boyfriend! We are thrilled that Patty Jenkins met and exceeded expectations for the female-driven superhero...2017-06-0753 minDownton Gabby[86] Life After Downton - Gilead Girls[Life After Downton, Episode 11] - This month the Damsels are all about the trials women go through with their bodies, starting with the eagerly-anticipated adaptation of The Handmaid's Tale, which is beautifully done, and also gave at least one of us nightmares.
We also check in with Call the Midwife, Harlots, Girls, and Big Little Lies, to see how their female casts and creators handle the womanly pursuits of (respectively) birthing babies, selling sex, latching on, and trying not to get raped and killed. This ain't no tea with Violet and Isobel, y'all, but we'll get through it together. So...2017-04-3056 min
Damsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: FAIRY TALES AND...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: FAIRY TALES AND HAIRY MALES
On this month’s episode, the damsels discuss the smash hit film Beauty and the Beast, along with the phenomenon of Disney “princesses,” and what messages this film genre sends to young kids about their expected (hetero) futures.
It’s not that we don’t like our plucky heroines, emotional musical set pieces, and swoon-worthy declarations of love…but how should the genre evolve as new adaptations keep coming, and reaching such massive...2017-03-2400 minDownton Gabby[85] Life After Downton - Fairy Tales and Hairy Males[Life After Downton, Episode 10] - On this month's episode, the damsels discuss the smash hit film Beauty and the Beast, along with the phenomenon of Disney "princesses," and what messages this film genre sends to young kids about their expected (hetero) futures. It's not that we don't like our plucky heroines, emotional musical set pieces, and swoon-worthy declarations of love...but how should the genre evolve as new adaptations keep coming, and reaching such massive levels of success?
We also share many thoughts on drinking etiquette in theaters, inspirational '80s cartoons, and a Greek myth or two, then check...2017-03-2241 minDownton Gabby[84] Life After Downton - Oscars: Re-Writing History[Life After Downton, Episode 9] - The damsels are getting ready for the Oscars by going through the Best Picture winners of years past and helping the Academy make better choices. There are so many phenomenal movies directed by women, written by women, and about women that deserved to win that coveted award. Throw on an evening gown, pop some champagne, and let's re-write history together!2017-02-191h 00Downton Gabby[83] Life After Downton - All The Singin' Ladies[Life After Downton, Episode 8] - The Damsels are just girls in love...with musicals. We celebrate CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND, its great characters, hilarious production numbers, and Rachel Bloom's impressive bosoms.
We also discuss the new film LA LA LAND (yeah, we have a few issues), as well as some of our favorite musicals of all time, from WEST SIDE STORY to TEAM AMERICA: WORLD POLICE. Plus, an early look at PBS's Victoria and the ever-popular Dan Stevens IMDB Watch. So pour some bubbly, lace up your tap shoes, and sing your emotions with us on this episode of Downton Gabby.2017-02-0143 minDownton Gabby[82] Life After Downton - We'll Always Have TV[Life After Downton, Episode 7] - The damsels close out a rocky year in real life by recalling the many 2016 TV moments that made us feel so many emotions in a safe space: joy, rage, hope, despair, and general appreciation of female badassery.
As we each count down our favorite five moments of the year as well as a few disappointments, we also consider: which shows ended strong? What returning shows do we most anticipate for 2017? And which female characters are inspiring us in these dark times? Pop some early New Year's champagne and join us to process The Year That...2016-12-231h 00Damsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: THE MOTHER OF ALL...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: THE MOTHER OF ALL SPARKLY HEADBANDS
The damsels dive into the world of ermine, tweed, taffeta, and yes… sparkly headbands aka crowns. Lots to discuss about Netflix’s new show The Crown: some of us loved Prince Philip’s butt, some didn’t; some liked John Lithgow’s performance as Churchill, some didn’t; and only one damsel recognized a certain actor from Game of Thrones.
Afterwards we list off some of our favori...2016-12-1600 minDownton Gabby[81] Life After Downton - The Mother of All Sparkly Headbands[Life After Downton, Episode 6] - The damsels dive into the world of ermine, tweed, taffeta, and yes... sparkly headbands aka crowns. Lots to discuss about Netflix's new show The Crown: some of us loved Prince Phillip's butt, some didn't; some liked John Lithgow's performance as Churchill, some didn't; and only one damsel recognized a certain actor from Game of Thrones.
Afterwards we list off some of our favorite female characters in positions of power. We are eager to hear your additions to our list! So prop up your stilettos on the desk, pour a glass of scotch, light a cigar...2016-12-0642 minDownton Gabby[80] Life After Downton - HBO's Female Gaze[Life After Downton, Episode 5] - At long last, it's a new world on HBO, as multiple new shows with women at the helm populate the line-up. Up first, we dive deep into co-creator Lisa Joy's Westworld: is it the new LOST? The new Game of Thrones? Or something altogether fresh? We may not have the answers yet, but we are in the saddle for this journey!
Next, we move on to the new half-hour shows from past faves Sharon Horgan and Issa Rae. We want to love everything these women do, but sadly only one is warming our hearts this...2016-10-2853 minDownton Gabby[79] Life After Downton - Give Her All The Emmys[Life After Downton, Episode 4] - Summer is over and we're back with a brand new podcast! On this episode we preview the Emmy Awards and the fabulous ladies who act in and create some of our favorite shows. We'll also be live tweeting the Emmys this Sunday night (Sept 18th).
Downton Abbey is nominated for 10 Emmy awards, and we wonder: Could they have nominated an actor OTHER than Maggie Smith this year-someone who might actually show up??? Aside from DA, we're sharing our joy, scorn, judgements, hopes and dreams for several of the categories. Who do we love? What do...2016-09-1238 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: HIGH SCHOOL...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Life After Downton: HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL!
The damsels dive into the world of teen shows with special guest Karen Draper who is a YA Author and writes about teen shows on her tumblr. We compare the shows about the rich kids with the shows about the dorks, examine the sexual politics, gush about the bad boys, and decipher the timeless-ness of the themes and why they still appeal to us as adult women.
...2016-07-0200 minDownton Gabby[78] Life After Downton - High School Confidential[Life After Downton Episode 3] - The damsels dive into the world of teen shows with special guest Karen Draper who is a YA Author and writes about teen shows on her tumblr. We compare the shows about the rich kids with the shows about the dorks, examine the sexual politics, gush about the bad boys, and decipher the timeless-ness of the themes and why they still appeal to us as adult women.
The podcast opens with 15 minutes devoted to our discussion on Julian's two latest projects: Belgravia and Dr. Thorne.
Pour some cheap vodka into a Diet Coke and open...2016-07-0258 minDownton Gabby[77] Life After Downton - That's So Julian![Life After Downton, Episode 2] - Class! Evil lady's maids! Marrying to save the family pile! Who else could the Damsels be talking about this week but our good buddy Julian Alexander Kitchener-Fellowes and his latest projects.
We have a lot of love for his episode-a-week book series Belgravia, but really can't fully express our hatred for its app. We also stick our toe into his 4-part adaptation of Dr. Thorne and can't decide what's more indelible: Ian McShane's drunken rages, Alison Brie's blue eyes, or Julian channeling Alistair Cooke in his introductions.
Then we check in with one of our...2016-05-2750 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Bonus Farewell:...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Bonus Farewell: #LADAWithdrawal, denial, grief…There’s a Crawley-shaped hole in our Sunday nights, so we’re excited that some of our smartest and funniest listeners are helping us deal with Life After Downton Abbey.This ‘Very Special Podcast’ features your memories, questions and wisecracks about things like: That extremely short period of time when we actually liked Bates; The long and fractious friendship of besties4ever Isobel and Violet; And...2016-04-2600 minDamsels In Discussionouibrandi:
downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Post-Downton: IF IT’S...ouibrandi:
downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Post-Downton: IF IT’S GAY I’LL WATCH IT
The damsels are back to check in on the post-Downton landscape, which luckily already contains Julian Fellowes’s next big project (one that would horrify a certain butler if he knew about it). We’ll be checking in with Belgravia as it progresses, so stay tuned for more!
Then it’s a fab new world as we welcome our first-ever guest podcasters–the delightful Britta Lundi...2016-04-2400 minDownton Gabby[76] Life After Downton - If It's Gay, I'll Watch It[Life After Downton, Episode 1] - The damsels are back to check in on the post-Downton landscape, which luckily already contains Julian Fellowes's next big project (one that would horrify a certain butler if he knew about it). We'll be checking in with Belgravia as it progresses, so stay tuned for more! Then it's a fab new world as we welcome our first-ever guest podcasters, the delightful Britta Lundin (brittashipsit) and Dave Binegar (davebinegar), to weigh in on the recent controversy surrounding the treatment of queer characters on TV. What's the deal with this Bury Your Gays thing, anyway? How can...2016-04-231h 08Downton Gabby[75] Downton Gabby - #LADA[Season 6, Post-Finale Celebration] - Withdrawal, denial, grief...There's a Crawley-shaped hole in our Sunday nights, so we're excited that some of our smartest, funniest listeners are helping us deal with Life After Downton Abbey. This 'Very Special Podcast' features your memories, questions and wisecracks about things like: That extremely short period of time when we actually liked Bates; The long and fractious friendship of besties4ever Isobel and Violet; and all those scary appliances, cunning devices, and stylish ladypants that showed us just how inevitable change was. A huge thank you to this show's contributors*, as well as to all o...2016-03-161h 05Downton Gabby[74] Downton Abbey - Happy Endings[Season 6, Series Finale] - No more secrets, no more lies-just happiness bursting on the series finale of our beloved Downton Abbey. As the captains of #TeamEdith, we wave our flags as she leaps over the final hurdle to her ride into the sunset (the dreaded mother-in-law test) and crosses the finish line with a gold medal. You are woman, Edith! Go forth and conquer. Meanwhile, cottages abound, relationships are restored, and everyone (who's straight) is headed for a wedding (if Isobel can break her beloved out of his plaid bathrobe prison) And in other "excitement": Daisy gets a haircut; Thomas...2016-03-0948 minDownton Gabby[73] Downton Abbey - Sisters[Season 6, Episode 8] - There were never such devoted sisters! This week we dig deep into the penultimate episode of Downton Abbey and the Mary/Edith throwdown we've been longing for for 6 seasons.
We also ponder some burning questions, such as: Is Henry a dreamboat or a stalker? Has the Yorkshire Bawdy House market become saturated? Is Tom the best Crawley sister? Who would we most like to see die in the finale? And...what the hell is a Marquess? As we rush towards the inevitable finale, relax with a cup of tea at The Adulterer's Table, and enjoy this outspoken...2016-02-2439 minDownton Gabby[72] Downton Abbey - Crash And Burn[Season 6, Episode 7] - A moment of silence for Charlie, not only did he lose his life, but he also put the nail in the coffin on Mary and Mr. Yum Yum's relationship. Well, maybe it was Henry's drunk dialing that did it...
After discussing Chekov's Sports Car, the damsels dig into the other juicy storylines, such as Bertie's proposal (yay #TeamEdith), the bitch showdown with the Dowager, the return of Dickobel, Molesley's new genius status, the lament of poor Thomas, and of course, the reign of Mrs. Patmore as the devious plotter who brought Carson to his knees roasting potatoes...2016-02-1639 minDownton Gabby[71] Downton Abbey S06 E06- House Hunters Yorkshire[Season 6, Episode 6] - This week we find the Crawleys in fine comedic form as they wander cluelessly around the Abbey making stuff up about their paintings. Meanwhile, Mrs Hughes is (hopefully) spitting in Carson's food, Mary and Edith prove they'll never fight over the same men, and Julian dazzles us with his tenuous grasp of obstetric knowledge. But with only a few episodes left, we have worries: Will this hospital melodrama finally do Granny in? When will Thomas's story stop being so cringeworthy? Will Molesley get that job at Hogwarts? And the biggest question of all: Who is this Downton...2016-02-1038 minDownton Gabby[70] Downton Abbey S06 E05 - Bloody Valentine[Season 6, Episode 5] - After we've wiped the blood off our shocked faces, the Damsels dig into this episode jam packed with love and (almost) death. Although we love Mr. Yum Yum, we wonder if he's marriage material, but you won't find us shipping Mary and Tom! No, we are more interested in whether Mary and Edith will finally bury the hatchet and be decent to each other. Oh, also we are super busy planning the double wedding for Mrs. Patmore/Mr. Mason and Daisy/Andy. Until then, we will relish in all of the love this final season is oozing...2016-02-0335 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 4: LADIES WHO...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 4: LADIES WHO LUNCH
Feminism abounds in the new episode of Downton Abbey! Julian, how did you know that the way to make us care about the hospital storyline was to have a group of ladies relate it all to their opinions about government?
Meanwhile, Mrs. Hughes is keeping her name, and all that sexy, not-at-all secret flirting between Mary and Mr. Yum Yum is making us flush hotter than a bad transmission (we d...2016-01-2800 minDownton Gabby[69] Downton Abbey - Ladies Who Lunch[Season 6, Episode 4] - Feminism abounds in the new episode of Downton Abbey! Julian, how did you know that the way to make us care about the hospital storyline was to have a group of ladies relate it all to their opinions about government? Meanwhile, Mrs. Hughes is keeping her name, and all that sexy, not-at-all secret flirting between Mary and Mr. Yum Yum is making us flush hotter than a bad transmission (we don't know about cars). Also this week: a touching trip down memory lane to the saddest but maybe best-written moment in Downton history; a flurry of downstairs...2016-01-2740 minDownton Gabby[68] Downton Abbey - Say Yes To The Frock[Season 6, Episode 3] - So much love to discuss in this joyous episode, starting with The Big Wedding and Edith's adorable rom-com storyline. Also, lots of drama to dissect: Mary/Tom shipping, #CoatGate, Chekov's indigestion, #RatFetus, Spratt's secret life, Molesley as the Edith of downstairs, and whether Marigold will kill them all in their sleep with her creepy eyes. Let's all stay out of the boot room, raise a glass to Charlie and Elsie, and get this hooli going!2016-01-1941 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 3: SAY YES TO THE...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 3: SAY YES TO THE FROCK
So much love to discuss in this joyous episode, starting with The Big Wedding and Edith’s adorable rom-com storyline.
Also, lots of drama to dissect: Mary/Tom shipping, #CoatGate, Chekov’s indigestion, #RatFetus, Spratt’s secret life, Molesley as the Edith of downstairs, and whether Marigold will kill them all in their sleep with her creepy...2016-01-1900 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 2: PRIZE PIGS
It’s...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6, Episode 2: PRIZE PIGS
It’s not just Lady Mary’s Late Fat Stock that are behaving like pigs this week.
First of all, how did Edith let the whole Marigold mess get so out of hand? We love our #TeamEdith, but even we have limits when you’ve been farming the land since Waterloo. It’s wigs in the grass, people. Wigs. In. The. Grass.
We also discuss all the jerky goings-on, including Carson insistin...2016-01-1400 minDownton Gabby[67] Downton Abbey S06 E02- Prize Pigs[Season 6, Episode 2] - It's not just Lady Mary's Late Fat Stock that are behaving like pigs this week. We discuss all the jerky goings-on, including Carson insisting on getting married at work, Isobel bickering with Violet-and cock-blocking poor old Dickie, and Barrow getting picked on by almost everyone downstairs.
We also try to figure out how Edith let the whole Marigold mess get so out of hand. We love our #TeamEdith, but even we have limits when you've been farming the land since Waterloo. It's wigs in the grass, people. Wigs. In. The. Grass. At least Lady Mary is helping...2016-01-1334 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6 Premiere: LET’S GET IT...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Season 6 Premiere: LET’S GET IT ON
We’re super excited about the premiere of the final season of Downton Abbey (and, to be honest, a bit sad).
Some things haven’t changed: Another random evil maid is causing trouble, Carson disapproves of something modern, Mary is testing the limits of propriety, Cora can’t get a straight answer to a question….and Anna is crying.
There are also many new developments, and we have questions...2016-01-0600 minDownton Gabby[66] Downton Abbey - Let's Get It On[Season 6 Premiere] - We're so excited about the premiere of the final season of Downton Abbey (and, to be honest, a bit sad). Some things haven't changed: Another random evil maid is causing trouble, Carson disapproves of something modern, Mary is testing the limits of propriety, Cora can't get a straight answer to a question...and Anna is crying.
There are also many new developments, and we have questions: Will Lesley Nicol finally get an Emmy nomination for that sex talk? What is the best lube for the menopausal set? Why is Mary reading the Farmer's Stock Breeder at breakfast...2016-01-0548 minDownton Gabby[65] Downton Off-Season - The Queens of 2015[Downton Gabby Off-Season 9] - It's a super-packed conversation in our last episode of the off-season before the (sob) final season of Downton Abbey begins. We're preparing, reminiscing, and predicting, and one of us might be taking a deeper dive into fandom activities than ever before (send 1920s garb now!). Helping us fill some of the time before the Crawleys and company return is Netflix's Jessica Jones. We dig the themes, the ass-kicking, the piles of well-written women, and the simmering hot Luke Cage-but we do have a few issues, such as whether the 13-episode binge really serves the story, or...2015-12-221h 06Damsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: The Queens...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: The Queens of 2015
It’s a super-packed conversation in our last episode of the off-season before the (sob) final season of Downton Abbey begins. We’re preparing, reminiscing, and predicting, and one of us might be taking a deeper dive into fandom activities than ever before (send 1920s garb now!).
Helping us fill some of the time before the Crawleys & company return is Netflix’s Jessica Jones. We dig the themes, the ass-kicking, the piles...2015-12-2200 minDownton Gabby[64] Downton Off-Season - Dance The Shit Out Of It![Downton Gabby Off-Season 8] - This episode celebrates The Danc e, and who better to title it than Zoe Saldana's epic Eva in beloved teen film Center Stage.
We take a nostalgic trip back to that 2000 ballet classic, but first we talk about Starz's (sadly) limited series Flesh and Bone. This story of a simple girl from Pittsburgh who becomes the toast of the ballet world embraces the tropes we love, from the bloody toenails, the aging prima ballerina, and the eating disorders. And some even darker fare, like a Russian mobster with a sex slave racket, the magical homeless person...2015-11-2151 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST!
Downton Gabby Off-Season: Dance The...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST!
Downton Gabby Off-Season: Dance The Shit Out Of It!
This episode celebrates The Dance, and who better to title it than Zoe Saldana’s epic Eva in beloved teen film Center Stage.
We take a nostalgic trip back to that 2000 ballet classic, but first we talk about Starz’s (sadly) limited series Flesh and Bone. This story of a simple girl from Pittsburgh who becomes the toast of the ballet world embraces the tropes we love, from...2015-11-2100 minDownton Gabby[63] Downton Off-Season - Fall LadyShow Roundup[Downton Gabby Off-Season 7] - Fall TV has just begun and we are treating it like a big appetizer sampler. We run through our opinions on new buzzy shows like Quantico and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend while also touching base with some old faves Nashville and Jane the Virgin. Then we dive into a big discussion on Nancy Meyer's latest film The Intern, which we would love to re-write as The CEO. The damsels have A LOT to say about this movie that doesn't fail on every mark, but yes, many of them. We also look at Nancy Meyer's career as a whole...2015-10-2251 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: Fall...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: Fall LadyShow Roundup
Fall TV has just begun and we are treating it like a big appetizer sampler. We run through our opinions on new buzzy shows like Quantico and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend while also touching base with some old faves Nashville and Jane the Virgin.
Then we dive into a big discussion on Nancy Meyer’s latest film The Intern, which we would love to re-write as Th...2015-10-2200 minDownton Gabby[62] Downton Off-Season - While You Were Hacking[Downton Gabby Off-Season 6] - As the Damsels count down the days until the final season of Downton (and weep over the first glimpses of the end), we're also game to check out a show that pokes fun at our beloved Abbey – Comedy Central's Another Period, filled with horrible people doing horrible things to each other in the most hilarious of ways. Then it's on to the summer's surprise hit, Mr. Robot. We're not sure what we love best: the style, the anarchy, or Rami Malek's dreamy face. But we're not without suggestions for how the show might get even better in...2015-09-071h 11Damsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: ALL THE...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: ALL THE FEELINGS!The Damsels are so emotional, with Joy, Anger, Sadness–and some Hot & Bothered. We start with Pride and Confusion over DOWNTON ABBEY’s Emmy nominations and a new pilot for Michelle Dockery. Then, INSDIE OUT fills us with Sadness, which is actually a really good thing (except for our Disgust with the opening short Lava, which is even more sexist than a CBS sitcom). It’s Joy versus Anger over Netfli...2015-07-2500 minDownton Gabby[61] Downton Off-Season - All The Feelings![Downton Gabby Off-Season 5] - The Damsels are so emotional, with Joy, Anger, Sadness...and some Hot and Bothered. We start with Pride and Confusion over DOWNTON ABBEY's Emmy nominations and a new pilot for Michelle Dockery. Then, INSDIE OUT fills us with Sadness, which is actually a really good thing (except for our Disgust with the opening short Lava, which is even more sexist than a CBS sitcom). It's Joy versus Anger over Netflix's new sci-fi series SENSE8, but we're all Gratitude for Wolfgang's magical full frontal. At ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, we're feeling Fear for anyone who messes...2015-07-2450 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: FEELING...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: FEELING STABBY!The Damsels are still on the Game of Thrones bandwagon (despite the several public defections) as we talk about the season finale: Jon Snow’s really bad day (or is he?), Cersei’s epic Walk of Shame, and Arya gettin’ stabby with it at the brothel. Why is a girl aggrieved? Maybe it’s because this season’s GoT had not a single Lady Director. Just a theory.We continue...2015-06-1900 minDownton Gabby[60] Downton Off-Season - Feeling Stabby![Downton Gabby Off-Season 4] - The Damsels are still on the "Game of Thrones" bandwagon (despite the several public defections) as we talk about the season finale: Jon Snow's really bad day (or is he?), Cersei's epic Walk of Shame, and Arya gettin' stabby with it at the brothel. Why is the girl aggrieved? Maybe it's because this season's GoT had not a single Lady Director. Just a theory.
We continue our Fellowes Film Festival with the Julian-penned "The Young Victoria," a feminist-approved historical romance which had us scrambling to the Wikipedia English Royalty entries so we could get all the f...2015-06-1949 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: RETURN OF...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: RETURN OF QUEENSDon’t worry, you are not in a time warp! It’s only been two weeks since our last podcast, but we decided to record a bonus podcast based on popular demand for our opinions on the Mad Men finale, the Sansa wedding episode of GoT, and the awesomely feminist movie: Mad Max.So buckle up for this high-octane podcast that pays homage to our last...2015-05-3000 minDownton Gabby[59] Downton Off-Season - Return of Queens[Downton Gabby Off-Season 3] - Don't worry, you are not in a time warp. It's only been two weeks since our last podcast, but we decided to record a bonus podcast based on popular demand of wanting to hear our opinion on the Mad Men finale, the Sansa wedding episode of GoT, and the awesomely feminist movie: Mad Max. So buckle up for this high-octane podcast that pays homage to our last Stangasm. Pour yourself a bloody mary, smudge oil on your forehead and let's show those men's rights activists that the only return that's happening, is the RETURN OF QUEENS!2015-05-3054 minDownton Gabby[58] Downton Off-Season - Deliciously Nasty[Downton Gabby Off-Season 2] - The damsels take a trip to Robert Altman's delicious 2001 film Gosford Park, a triumphant Oscar-winning moment for Julian Fellowes, and the inspiration for Downton Abbey. How does his collaboration with the dark and nasty Altman hold up? Which actors laid the foundations for their Downton counterparts? And what is Ryan Phillippe doing in this movie?
From there, the discussion turns to the TV we're watching. How is Game of Thrones streamlining GRRM's unwieldy narrative? Did freshman show Jane the Virgin stick the landing in its finale? Who are we worried about on Call the Midwife? And...2015-05-1658 minDamsels In Discussiondowntongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season:...downtongabby:
NEW PODCAST! Downton Gabby Off-Season: DELICIOUSLY NASTYThe damsels take a trip to Robert Altman’s 2001 film Gosford Park, a triumphant Oscar-winning moment for Julian Fellowes, and the likely inspiration for Downton Abbey. How does his collaboration with the dark and nasty Altman hold up? Which actors laid the foundations for their Downton counterparts? And what is Ryan Phillippe doing in this movie?From there, the discussion turns to the TV we’re watching. How is Game of Thro...2015-05-1600 minDownton Gabby[57] Downton Off-Season - Shadow Of A Dick[Downton Gabby Off-Season 1] - We couldn't stay away from you, dear friends, so welcome to Downton Gabby Off-Season! We'll be here once a month until the final season of Downton Abbey starts (sob!) to discuss news and speculation about what's to come in the Downton world, previous works by our favorite Downton folks, and what other pop culture we're consuming to help us get by.
Today on the podcast, it's all about the surge of springtime shows. Is the storyline on Outlander satisfying us from a feminist and/or a sexytimes perspective? Are the women of Mad Men getting good...2015-04-1755 minDownton Gabby[56] Downton Abbey - Drunk Donk[Season 5 Finale] - Another season of Downton Abbey must end, but at least there's plenty of crazy action in this finale! (Unless you are a woman who just has to stand there looking pretty while a dude shoots birds)
We've got Lord Grantham becoming unbecomingly emotional, Edith smiling (twice!), and one very sexy man motoring off into the sunset as 1924 comes to a close.
Who will end the year happy and who will be disappointed? We gnash our teeth over romances lost, speculate about the ones that are blossoming, sigh over losing Tom to America, and wonder if we could po...2015-03-0338 minDownton Gabby[55] Downton Abbey - Till Drama Do Us Part[S05E08] - After the damsels Ooo and Ahhh over Rose's beautiful wedding attire, we get down to some serious topics: Has Lord Grantham had a brain tumor to explain his sudden burst of tolerance and generosity? Where was Aunt Rosamund at the wedding? Was Rose actually a virgin on her wedding day? Also, does anyone care at this point since everyone is boning down out of wedlock!
We try to avoid the topic of Mr. Green, but just like Julian, we can't stay away. Instead, we come up with an elaborate theory that could redeem the whole mess of...2015-02-2440 minDownton Gabby[54] Downton Abbey - Douchebag Dinner[S05E07] - It's Cora's moment to take action this week, as she finally learns the truth about Marigold's existence. We love her bold attitude and sympathy for Edith, but we're not so sure this plan to layer another lie on the situation will help... Meanwhile, Lord Dickie Merton's offspring (truly a couple of sons of a dick) make yet another scene in the dining room as they protest Isobel's engagement announcement. We're glad to see the family stand up for her (and for the servants to have so me juicy gossip), but if we don't get our senior wedding...2015-02-1737 minDownton Gabby[53] Downton Abbey - Cut And Run[S05E06] - Well, the Crawleys may not care about Edith, but the damsels do! We dig in deep to discuss Edith's escape, as well as Mary's rebellious haircut and the long history between these sisters that hate each other.
Other secrets come out downstairs, with Bates's discovery of that cunning device hidden in the cottage, and a confession about London that seems a bit too convenient to be true. Anna may have faith in him, but should the rest of us?
Meanwhile, late-in-life romance is still all the rage as we get an accepted proposal (yay!), a private visit...2015-02-1036 minDownton Gabby[52] Downton Abbey - YUMMY![S05E05] - After recovering from the shock of the bedroom brawl...I mean, sexy bondage game...I mean, wild chess match, the damsels discuss in depth whether this system is working Edith or if she should just run off with Marigold to London where she can run the magazine and wear fabulous dresses every day.
Although, we are worried that this overstaffed police force will put 100 of their best men on the case to solve the baby snatching! But mostly we discuss cocktails, goiter love poems, and the yummy new man in town with puppy dog eyes: Atticus.
So...2015-02-0439 minDownton Gabby[50] Downton Abbey - Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (Again)[S05E04] - It's a little topsy-turvy this week at Downton, as we find ourselves on Lord Grantham's side of several issues, starting with the Battle of the Bunting at another awkward family dinner. We may love what she's teaching Daisy, but we can't support any more lectures in the dining room or embarrassment of poor Tom.
More bad behavior shows up in London, with Lord Gillingham going full Scorned Nice Guy when Mary tells him he's been banished to the Godfather Zone. What will his next move be as he tries to convince her to tie the knot after...2015-01-2842 minDownton Gabby[50] Downton Abbey - Unwanted Epilogue[S05E03] - So much romantic intrigue and crackling dialogue in this episode! Mary's back from Liverpool, but not without that narc Spratt spilling all to Violet who has a thing or two to tell her about that dangers of illicit love. Meanwhile, Anna hides THE THING in her tiny cottage while Tony wonders why Mary hasn't called.
Cora gets an art history lesson from Mr Bricker while Lord Grantham gets his own much-deserved schooling. We finally hear the full story of Baxter's secret shame, as well as Miss Bunting's unsolicited opinion of Russian nobility.
While Edith goes over the...2015-01-2132 minDownton Gabby[49] Downton Abbey - Lady Boners[S05E02] - Once we got over the Mary's lame cover story (c'mon, sketching is obviously code for boning down), we dived into this scrumptious episode: Anna's involvement in the great diaphragm caper of 1924, Edith's baby snatching Lifetime movie, Queen Bee Dowager of Yorkshire, and #ABoyfriendforBarrow. Don't worry, we take time to discuss each lady boner in great detail as each new romance blooms in the countryside. So, pour glass of bubbly, sit in your ex-wife's favorite room, and enjoy this rowdy podcast! Oh, but please don't flirt with my dog, thanks.2015-01-1543 minDownton Gabby[48] Downton Abbey - Smutty Deliberations[Season 5 Premiere] - We're back for another season at Downton Abbey! It's 1924 and Edith's secret love child she not-so-secretly visits is hidden away with the pigs. How long can her story stay hidden? Sex is in the air, as Tony Gillingham approaches Mary with an indecent proposal, and a pushy visitor wants Jimmy in her bed. Even Isobel might be feeling the pull, as her flirtation with Lord Merton hits a Lady Shackleton-shaped speed bump. Will the future hold more than just dinners-for-one on a tray? Meanwhile, Rose has her matchmaker hat on for Tom, Molesley's offering a shoulder (and...2015-01-0848 minDownton Gabby[47] Downton Abbey - Pretty In Pink[Season 4 Finale] - It's time to bid adieu to another season of Downton Abbey, but at least we get to do it with a metric tonne of diamonds, sparkles, and feathers! Rose is officially being presented, and we expect her to have some top-notch Prince-of-Wales-adjacent shenanigans next season. Downstairs, it's a whirlwind of work to do, but there's still time for a flirtation for Daisy, a revelation about Bates, and a delightful trip to the seaside for all. Ask your new English cook to hurry up with that fish pudding, and join us for a grand finale on Downton Gabby.2014-02-2643 minDownton Gabby[46] Downton Abbey - Circle The WagonsWhen a Grantham lady is in trouble, you know that Granny is going to circle the wagons to protect her. Whether is be a dead Turk in your bed or an illegitimate baby in your belly. And sorry Edith, just because a farmer likes pigs doesn't mean he wants your baby. We have another thrilling episode of Cora walking around with papers in her hand fretting: F@$%! THE ICE MAN! Also, Molesley and Baxter. And YES, we have a new fan fiction of Thomas' steamy love boat adventure! So turn off our French lessons and pour a glass of champagne...2014-02-1937 minDownton Gabby[45] Downton Abbey - Green, Eggs, and Ham[S04, E06] - Telegrams never bring good news to Downton, and this week one sends Robert dashing off to America to rescue Cora's brother, with Thomas in tow. The damsels are hoping to at least see some of those strutting ship stewards Mary mentioned -- could this finally be Thomas's chance to get some action? Up in London, Edith struggles with how to handle her pregnancy. We're glad Aunt Rosamund is on #TeamEdith, but will the rest of the family handle the news so well?2014-02-1229 minDownton Gabby[44] Downton Abbey - Unexpected Visitors[S04, E05] - The damsels truly enjoyed the last episode, full of various guests no one saw coming, and gave it a prestigious 8.5 on the sparkly headband scale! Not only did we get to enjoy a rockin' party with a live jazz band, but we also got to see stolen kisses in the hallway, a Dowager/Isobel showdown, and the creepiest face by Cora in DA history! Also, BITCHY MARY IS BACK! Poor Evelyn, doesn't he ever learn to not bring friends who are cuter than him? He's stuck in the friendzone, AGAIN. However, it's not all glitzy parties and...2014-02-0425 minDownton Gabby[43] Downton Abbey - Appliance Apocalypse[S04, E04] - A sewing machine and a refrigerator shake the very foundations of Downton this week. In other news: Another week, another new maid! Crafting, fresh-squeezed oj, a mysterious alliance with Thomas -- we're not sure what else Baxter has up her sleeve, but so far, we think we like it. Elsewhere, Anna and Bates are thankfully on the mend. We're ready for this storyline to move along, but we're pretty sure you'll be able to guess which damsel did NOT tear up during their heartfelt reunion. Upstairs, Mary's looking radiant as another potential suitor pops by, Lord Grantham...2014-01-2932 minDownton Gabby[42] Downton Abbey - A Can of Whoop Ass[S04, E03] - Mrs. Hughes does not mess with manipulative maids -- she annihilates them! (well... and writes them a good reference... but let's not focus on that). Good riddance Edna! Meanwhile Edith has most definitely given up her V-Card (yay!) and unfortunately got caught in her walk of shame (who hasn't been there?!). We love Rosamund's new-found love of jazz and dancing and wonder if she has had her own walk of shame story. The damsels continue to examine the Anna/Bates storyline and wonder how thin the line is between stalking and romance with the glamourous pirate. Overall, w...2014-01-2129 minDownton Gabby[41]Downton Abbey - Mr. Green In The Kitchen[S04, E02] - After the shock wore off, the damsels gathered their wits and sharp criticism to dissect this upsetting turn of events. As always, we looked at this "plot device" through a feminist lens. Even if the writers don't want to see things from Anna's point of view, the damsels sure will!
Don't worry, it's not all sadness and anger -- we're still drinking and gabbing after all! So we turn our conversation to the lovely house party, which has been given a 10 on the sparkly headbands scale! Who wasn't on the edge of their seat about that jam...2014-01-1536 minDownton Gabby[40] Season 4 Premiere: Downton Abbey - Lean In, Mary!Another season at the Abbey begins! The damsels are concerned for poor Mary after Matthew's death (although we secretly think she looks fab in black). We're glad most of the family all TeamMary for her to share in running the estate, but we must roll our eyes at yet another letter from beyond the grave.
Over on TeamEdith, we love the dramatic head scarves but worry about her social activities with Mr. Editor. Should she have a chat with Rose about taking certain lady-precautions during an affair? Scandalous!
Meanwhile, Molesley's on a chain gang, Mrs. Hughes is up to some...2014-01-0738 minDownton Gabby[39] Downton Off-Season: You're Gonna Make It After All[Downton Off-Season] -Goin' back to Cali? No, we don't think so. More like Philly. In the season finale of both Mad Men and our podcast, the Damsels discuss the long decline of Don Draper that no amount of LA sunshine will ever to turn around. We bid goodbye to our favorite womanizing alcoholic father-of-the-year, as well as some of our other favorites from Season 6.2013-06-2837 minDownton Gabby[38] Downton Off-Season: Dick In A Box[Downton Off-Season] - Still depressed from the worst wedding ever? The damsels can't enough lady vengeance, with assassin Arya, the thoughtful gift sent to Asha, Ygritte's badass archery. But we pass on Dany's Mother Teresa. Over in Mad Men, Don is another kind of dick in a box, we just wish Pete would let his mom have her imagined orgasms! Also, Bob Benson is Gay.2013-06-1438 minDownton Gabby[37] Downton Off-Season: Till Death Do Us Part[Downton Off-Season] - Well, don't say we didn't warn you…The Damsels throw pillows, shed tears, and then resign themselves to the inevitabilty of The Red Wedding. We love our newest Odd Couple Arya and the Hound, and continue to fantasize about Geoffrey's gruesome death. At 19:45,we're traveling at the speed of light to 1960s New York, where Brandi gives us a shocking confession about swapping spit with Jon Hamm.2013-06-0739 minDownton Gabby[36] Downton Off-Season: A Shot in the Ass![Downton Off-Season] - The damsels are back and digging into three great episodes! Let’s start with the Nashville finale where there was so much melodrama we had to make a list of things that DIDN’T happen just to keep track of the things that did. At 14:20 we switch to the biggest shit show wedding in history on Game of Thrones. At 23:00 we take the shot in the ass no one saw coming on Mad Men.2013-05-2442 min