HBO PROJECT: Oz (1997) | From the Earth to the Moon (1998)

It's a new era for HBO as the premium cable network launches its first successful dramatic series, the relentlessly grim Oz (1997), which ran for an impressive fifty-six episodes. Our guest Steven brings a fan's enthusiasm to the discussion of "The Routine," which introduces us to the prisoners and administrators of Emerald City--before Jon Seda and his penis (yes, Mel, rewind the tape, because you missed it) suffocate the episode. (8:33-1:10:30) The first installment of From the Earth to the Moon (1998) is a far more optimistic, albeit slightly dull, palate cleasner. The Soviets have launched the first man into outer space, igniting the race to land a man on the moon. "Can We Do This?," the premiere of this twelve-part mini-series, concerns the Mercury and Gemini (not pronounced how you'd think) programs. There's a lot of white guys in shirts and ties looking at screens and dials. It's not as exciting as that one astronaut movie (title TBD) Carol loves. (1:10:31-2:21:03) ... Also, the trailer for the Oprah Winfrey vehicle The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. (0-8:32) | Send feedback to [email protected]. Find our recording schedule, show notes, discussion threads, and more at hooplecast.com. | Recorded February 19, 2017. Released February 28, 2017. [Warning: Explicit Language.]