House of R
Film, TV & Pop Culture
About
Welcome to ‘House of R,’ where Mallory Rubin and Joanna Robinson explore your favorite fictional universes with their signature Deep Dives into everything from ‘Game of Thrones’ to ‘Star Wars,’ ‘The Lord of the Rings’ to Marvel, and beyond. Whether they’re parsing mythology, story themes, and character arcs or tracing influences across decades of fantasy and sci-fi stories, Jo and Mal will be here weekly with Deep Dives into new nerd culture releases, nostalgic revisitations of their favorite tales in fandom, Tropes Course examinations, Hall of Fame inductions, Hype Meters, drafts, mailbags, watch lists, top moments countdowns, recommendations, and more.
Episodes
- ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Finale
Mal and Jo break down the Season 2 finale of ‘Daredevil: Born Again.’ They discuss the battles, Matt revealing his identity, and look ahead to Season 3 and its effect on other MCU stories.
- The ‘Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord’ Season 1 Finale With Sam Witwer
Mal and Jo review the season 1 finale of "Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord," discussing key plot points and their hopes for season 2. Sam Witwer is a guest on the podcast.
- ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2, Episode 7 With Rob Mahoney
Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney discuss the penultimate episode of ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2. They share their thoughts on the season thus far and what they anticipate for the finale.
- ‘House of the Dragon' Season 3 Teaser Trailer Deep Dive
Mal and Jo analyze the latest teaser trailer for 'House of the Dragon' Season 3, discussing various aspects and offering insights. They cover an opening snapshot, a trailer breakdown, and book spoilers.
- ‘Following’ and ‘Insomnia’ Revisited | A Dream of Nolan Spring
Mal and Jo revisit Christopher Nolan's early films 'Following' and 'Insomnia.' They discuss their relationships to both movies, how the two pieces place in his filmography, and give out some superlatives.
- ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2, Episode 6. Plus, ‘Clayface’ and ‘The Vampire Lestat’ Trailers.
Mal and Jo discuss ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2, Episode 6, focusing on characters like Jessica Jones, Karen, Bullseye, Matt Murdock, and Wilson Fisk. They also react to the new trailers for ‘The Vampire Lestat’ and ‘Clayface.’
- ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Midseason Awards
Mal and Jo discuss the first half of ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2, focusing on characters, storylines, and midseason awards. They cover what is working well and what isn't in the season so far.
- ‘Memento’ Revisited | A Dream of Nolan Spring
Mal and Jo revisit Christopher Nolan’s ‘Memento’, discussing its rewatch value, influence, and ranking among Nolan's films. They also give out superlatives for the film.
- ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Season 4 Rewatch (Part 2)
Mal and Jo continue their rewatch of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, focusing on the second half of Season 4. They discuss characters, fight scenes, and other aspects of the season.
- ‘Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord’ Check-in
Mal and Jo review the first two episodes of ‘Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord,’ discussing key moments, characters, the timeline, and anticipation for future developments. The hosts also do a 'Mini Maul Dive.'
- ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Season 4 Rewatch (Part 1)
Mal and Jo rewatch the first half of Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 4. They discuss new and returning characters, the college setting, and the lack of a 'big bad,' also giving out superlatives.
- ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Check-in. Plus, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ and ‘Dune: Part Three’ Trailers.
Mal and Jo share their thoughts on the 'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2 premiere. They also discuss the 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' and 'Dune: Part Three' trailers.
- ‘Project Hail Mary’ Deep Dive. Plus: Andy Weir!
Mal and Jo discuss the book and movie adaptation of 'Project Hail Mary'. They are joined by author Andy Weir, who shares insights into the story.
- ‘The Martian’ Revisited, With Amanda Dobbins
Mal and Jo are joined by Amanda Dobbins to revisit 'The Martian' for Space Month. They discuss the movie, the possibility of surviving on Mars, and the least believable NASA employee.
- The 2026 Versies Awards | House of Midnight
House of R and The Midnight Boys collaborate for the 2026 Versies Awards. They discuss achievements and notable content from 2025, covering categories like best visuals, lines, characters, music, and performances in movies and shows.
- The Space Movie Draft
Mal and Jo are joined by Rob Mahoney and Chris Ryan for the Space Movie Draft. They will be drafting space movies based on categories such as space saviors, visual splendor, space horror, first contact, space connections, and a wild card.
- ‘Interstellar’ Revisited With Van Lathan | Chill Nolan Winter
Mal and Jo are joined by Van Lathan to discuss Christopher Nolan’s film ‘Interstellar.’ They cover their original experience with the movie, its influence, and the story. They also give out superlatives related to the film.
- The 2026 Winter Mailbag
Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin address a variety of listener questions in this mailbag episode. Topics include book recommendations, anticipated adaptations, and discussions on several television series.
- ‘House of the Dragon' Season 3 Trailer Deep Dive
Mal and Jo dive deep into the trailer for 'House of the Dragon' Season 3. They discuss their thoughts and theories regarding the upcoming season, including book spoilers.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 6 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo discuss the final episode of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Season 1, including offers from Maekar and Lyonel, the green-apple Fossoways, and changes from the novella. They also look ahead to the future of the show.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 6 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson review ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 6, “The Morrow,” discussing plot points, character developments, and the future of the series. They also touch on the ‘House of the Dragon’ Seas…
- ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Season 3 Rewatch (Part 2)
Mal and Jo continue their rewatch of 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' with the second half of Season 3. They discuss various aspects of the season, including fights, dated moments, outfits, and other key moments.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 5 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo discuss ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 5. They cover the trial, a flashback, and a death in this deep dive.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 5 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson discuss 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Episode 5, “In the Name of the Mother.” They talk about the trial of seven, a flashback to Dunk’s youth, and a significant moment in the series.
- Our 10 Favorite Ships, Sex Scenes, and Seminal Love Stories of the Century (So Far)
Mal and Jo celebrate Valentine's Day by sharing their favorite descriptions of love, sex scenes, and surprise pairings from the century so far. This episode is part of their annual V-Day Quickie and Best of the Century (So Far) series.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo analyze ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4, focusing on the trial of seven, Raymun getting knighted, and Baelor's decision to join Dunk's side.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson break down ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4. They discuss Daeron’s dream, the teams for the trial of seven, and the knighting of Raymun Fossoway, as well as whether Aerion had a poin…
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 3 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo deep dive into 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Episode 3, discussing Dunk and Egg’s morning routines, the cruelty of Aerion, and the reveal of Egg’s identity. The episode covers key plot points and character developments.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 3 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson break down ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 3, “The Squire.” They discuss favorite moments, Egg’s big reveal, and what it means for the future of the series.
- The 2026 Hype Draft
Mal and Jo draft their most hyped films and TV shows of 2026. Sean Fennessey and Rob Mahoney join them to pick from the best the new year has to offer.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 2 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo offer a deep dive into ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 2, covering Dunk as Ser Arlan’s legacy, the Targaryens' arrival, and the start of the tourney, along with their thoughts on the Ser Arlan scene. They also discuss v…
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 2 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson react to "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" Episode 2, "Hard Salt Beef." They discuss the tourney, the Targaryens, and the Kingsguard.
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 1 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo review the first episode of the ‘Game of Thrones’ spinoff, ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.’ They discuss characters like Dunk, Egg, and Lyonel Baratheon, and key events including Dunk's attempt to enter the tourney and meeting…
- ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 1 Reactions | Talk the Thrones
Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson return to discuss ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 1. They cover favorite moments, characters, the show's timeline, and comparisons to the novella.
- ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Season 3 Rewatch (Part 1)
Mal and Jo rewatch the first half of Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 3. They discuss their favorite episodes, dated moments, and character insights.
- 'Stranger Things' Season 5 Finale Deep Dive
Mal and Jo from House of R offer a comprehensive deep dive into the 'Stranger Things' season 5 finale, discussing the episode's key moments and character arcs. They analyze various segments of the finale, including the characters' reaction…
- 'Stranger Things' Season 5, Episode 7 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo discuss \"Chapter Seven: The Bridge,\" episode 7 of Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2. The episode covers an opening snapshot and a theory corner. The hosts are Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin.
- 'Stranger Things' Season 5, Episodes 5 and 6 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo review the first two episodes of Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2. They discuss “Chapter Five: Shock Jock” and “Chapter Six: Escape from Camazotz.”
- The Holiday Gift Swap: ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ for ‘Interview With the Vampire’ Season 2
Mal and Jo get into the holiday spirit with a gift swap, exchanging ‘Interview With the Vampire’ Season 2 for ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash.’ They also discuss the new ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Teaser.
- The Top 10 Moments of 2025!
Mal and Jo count down their top moments of 2025, covering various popular shows and movies. They discuss titles such as ‘Andor,’ ‘Stranger Things,’ ‘The Last of Us,’ and ‘Superman.’
- Our 10 Favorite Fights of the Century (So Far)
On this episode of House of R, Mal and Jo share their top 10 favorite fictional fights of the century. They cover fights from "Star Wars," "Game of Thrones," "Lord of the Rings," and "Avatar: The Last Airbender."
- 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Final Trailer Breakdown
Mal and Jo from House of R return to discuss the final trailer for 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,' a 'Game of Thrones' spinoff. They provide an overall impression and a moment-by-moment breakdown of the trailer, followed by a spoiler-fil…
- 'Stranger Things' Season 5, Episodes 3-4 Deep Dive
Mal and Jo return to the Upside Down to deep dive into episodes 3 and 4 of 'Stranger Things' Season 5. They discuss the episodes, including an opening snapshot, deep dive, and theory corner.
- 'Stranger Things' Season 5, Episodes 1 and 2 Deep Dive
Mal and Joanna Robinson discuss the first two episodes of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5, Volume 1. They deep dive into 'Chapter One: The Crawl' and 'Chapter Two: The Vanishing of…'.
- ‘Wicked: For Good’ Deep Dive
Mal and Jo delve into the movie 'Wicked: For Good,' examining songs, character relationships, and fan theories.
- ‘Dunkirk’ Revisited With Chris Ryan | Chris-p Nolan Fall
Mal and Jo are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss Christopher Nolan’s film, 'Dunkirk.' They cover the film's unique story structure and performances, and share superlatives.
- ‘Frankenstein’ and ‘The Running Man’
Mal and Jo discuss the movies 'Frankenstein' and 'The Running Man.' They also delve into Guillermo del Toro’s movies and Edgar Wright’s movies.
- ‘Stranger Things’ Season 4 Revisited (Part 2)
Mal and Jo rewatch 'Stranger Things' Season 4, discussing their initial reactions and giving out superlatives. They also look forward to the upcoming Season 5.
- Our 10 Favorite Musical Moments of the Century (So Far)
Mal and Jo discuss their top favorite musical moments of the century, covering shows like Game of Thrones, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Leftovers, and Lost. The episode features their ranked lists and honorable mentions.
- ‘Stranger Things’ Season 4 Revisited (Part 1)
Mal and Jo revisit 'Stranger Things' Season 4, Part 1, discussing their initial experience with the season and awarding superlatives. They also react to the Season 5 trailer.