Broadcast Obituaries

Aaron Schweizer and Rob Brooks

Were some of the best sci-fi shows of the '90s cancelled before their time? Join hosts Rob Brooks and Aaron Schweizer as they dive deep into the archives of 1990s television to find out! Each season of Broadcast Obituaries: Gone Too Soon? focuses on a different, cancelled science fiction series. We'll re-watch, dissect, and have a little fun along the way to see if these shows were truly gone too soon. Tune in to critique with us and decide if your favorite forgotten sci-fi deserves a resurrection!

  1. Aug 12

    Firefly - "Safe" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S4E5 "Nice Folks, Aside From The Kidnapping"

    The conversation begins with pre-show banter and introductions, followed by a discussion of the Firefly episode 'Safe.' It then transitions into an exploration of the bestselling books of 2002, covering a wide range of genres and authors. The conversation covers the legacy of author Sue Grafton and her Alphabet series, the influence of bookstores on nineties culture, a discussion about books and reading, a movie in a minute segment on Red Line, and a review of the Firefly episode Safe. The conversation covers various topics including The Princess Bride movie, the book of Princess Bride, Shepherd Book's history, Mal's crew and loyalty, and the upcoming episode 'Our Miss Reynolds'. The discussion delves into the themes of loyalty, history, and character development within the context of the TV series Firefly. Takeaways Casual banter and personal anecdotes set the tone for the conversationThe Firefly episode 'Safe' is analyzed and discussed in detailA review of the bestselling books of 2002 provides insight into popular literary trends Sue Grafton's impact on the literary worldThe exploration of bookstores and reading culture in the nineties Loyalty and camaraderie among Mal's crewShepherd Book's mysterious history Chapters 00:00 Pre-Show Banter and Introductions02:12 Discussion of Firefly Episode 'Safe'05:22 Exploring Bestselling Books of 200226:14 Sue Grafton and the Alphabet Series27:12 The Legacy of Sue Grafton28:20 Bookstores and Nineties Culture29:30 Discussion of Books and Reading36:06 Movie in a Minute: Red Line42:05 Firefly Episode: Safe50:16 The Princess Bride Movie51:10 The Book of Princess Bride55:26 Shepherd Book's History53:39 Mal's Crew and Loyalty01:13:36 Our Miss Reynolds #firefly #00s #scifi #tv #tvshow #tvshows #tvseries #rewatchpodcast #rewatch #watch #00s #00snostalgia #00smusic #movie #movies #popculture #nostalgia #nostalgicmusic

  2. Aug 5

    Firefly - "Shindig" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S4E4 "The Mask of Reynolds"

    The conversation begins with an introduction to the TV show Firefly and the episode 'Shindig.' It then transitions into a discussion about the movie 'Oblivion,' a space western with quirky characters and a unique plot. The conversation explores the unusual elements of the movie and its self-aware humor. The conversation covers the movie 'Oblivion' and its VHS archive version, the summary of the Firefly episode, and detailed discussions about various scenes and character interactions. The hosts also share their ratings and anticipation for the next episode. Takeaways Oblivion is a space western movie with quirky characters and a unique plot.The movie 'Oblivion' is hilariously bad and self-aware in its humor. Character dynamics and relationships are a central focus of the episode.The hosts express excitement and anticipation for the next episode. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Firefly and Shindig01:44 Oblivion: A Space Western20:09 The Quirky Characters of Oblivion26:32 Oblivion and VHS Archive Version27:41 Firefly Episode Summary28:09 Virtual Pool Hall and Bar Fight29:15 Nara's Ball Invitation29:44 Kaylee's Dress and Insult30:12 Badger's Job Offer30:39 Atherton's Proposition to Inara31:08 Kaylee's Dress at the Ball32:28 Card Game and River's Behavior32:35 Zoe and Wash in Bed33:42 Kaylee's Treatment at the Ball34:11 Mal's Duel with Atherton35:20 Badger's Interference and Resolution36:02 River's Behavior and Simon's Reaction39:08 Episode Rating and Takeaways50:29 Preview of Next Episode

  3. Jul 29

    Firefly - "Bushwhacked" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S4E3 "Event Serenity"

    The conversation covers a range of topics including technical issues during recording, Snickerdoodle Twix, superhero movies, and the top modern rock tracks of the early 2000s. The conversation covers the top 10 modern rock tracks, a review of the Firefly episode 'Bushwacked', and a discussion of the movie 'Running Time'. The themes explored include music, entertainment, and space exploration. The episode features a discussion of the characters' interactions and the strength of the dialogue, with a focus on the comedic relief between Simon and Jane. The main storyline involving the survivor turning into a Reaver is less engaging, but the character interactions and dialogue remain a highlight of the show. Takeaways Recording technical issues can be distracting but can be managed by continuing to roll and addressing them during editing.Snickerdoodle Twix is recommended for Twix lovers.Superhero movies, particularly Supergirl, and the portrayal of female superheroes are discussed.The top modern rock tracks of the early 2000s are explored, including songs by Newfound Glory, Puddle of Mud, Incubus, Trust Company, and Papa Roach. Modern rock tracks from the early 2000s evoke nostalgia.The Firefly episode 'Bushwacked' features a blend of horror and humor.The movie 'Running Time' is an independent crime film with a continuous take approach. Character interactions and dialogue are the strengths of the showThe main storyline involving the survivor turning into a Reaver is less engaging Chapters 00:00 Technical Issues and Snickerdoodle Twix01:12 Superhero Movies and Female Superheroes21:50 Top Modern Rock Tracks of the Early 2000s24:52 Top 10 Modern Rock Tracks32:17 Review of Firefly Episode 'Bushwacked'33:33 Discussion of the Movie 'Running Time'50:17 Character Interactions and Dialogue01:02:07 The Survivor Turning into a Reaver

  4. Jul 22

    Firefly - "The Train Job" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S4E2 "Jayne's Trains and Very Bad Deals"

    The conversation covers the premiere of Firefly in 2002, nostalgic music and movies from the same year, and a discussion about the 'dead internet theory' and nostalgic music. The topics include the premiere of Firefly, concerts and movies of 2002, top songs of 2002, and the dead internet theory and nostalgic music. The conversation covers two primary themes: nostalgic music reactions and heist and moral ambiguity. The first theme explores the hosts' reactions to nostalgic music from the 90s, including discussions about Our Lady Peace and other iconic bands. The second theme delves into the episode's plot, which involves a heist and the moral ambiguity of the characters' actions. The heist leads to a discussion of the crew's principles and the ethical decisions they make. The conversation methodically explores character development, interactions, and the introduction of new characters. It delves into the train job, Jane's role, Niska's introduction, and the manipulation of characters. The discussion also covers the comparison of pilots, episode review, and a description of the next episode. Additionally, the conversation touches on train heist movies and recurring characters in the series. Takeaways Firefly premiered on September 20th, 2002Nostalgic music and movies from 2002 Nostalgic music reactionsHeist and moral ambiguity Character development through dialogueIntroduction of new characters and their interactions Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Firefly Premiere05:56 Concerts and Movies of 200208:53 Top Songs of 200211:59 The Dead Internet Theory and Nostalgic Music23:06 Nostalgic Music Reactions36:57 Heist and Moral Ambiguity48:05 Character Development and Interaction49:02 The Train Job and Heist50:09 Jane's Role and Niska's Introduction50:24 Simon and Kaylee's Interaction51:18 Jane's Manipulation and Seeds of Doubt52:17 Niska's Introduction and Reputation53:35 Recurring Characters and Universe Building55:15 Comparison of Pilots and Episode Review58:29 Discussion of Train Heist Movies01:07:02 Episode Review and Description of Next Episode

  5. Jul 15

    Firefly - "Serenity" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S4E1 - "The Gorram Beginning and End"

    The hosts discuss the introduction to their show, the topic of the month (Firefly), and the format of their segments. They also delve into the top movies and music of the early 2000s, sharing personal anecdotes and memories related to the songs and artists. The conversation covers a range of topics including music, TV shows, movies, and the Firefly TV series. It delves into the top 40 music hits, popular TV shows, and the Firefly series, providing insights into the cultural landscape of the early 2000s. The episode covers the introduction of the crew, the backstory of the characters, and the dynamics between them. It also explores the themes of faith, loss, and relationships, setting the stage for future character development and plotlines. The conversation covers the pilot episode of Firefly, discussing the characters, plot, and overall impression of the show. The hosts also touch on the ranking system for the episodes and provide a description for the next episode. Takeaways Firefly is the topic of the monthDiscussion of top movies and music of the early 2000s Cultural impact of top 40 music hitsDominance of TV shows like CSI and FriendsThe unique character-driven nature of the Firefly TV series Character dynamics and relationshipsExploration of faith and loss Character dynamics and development are a key highlight of the pilot episode.The pacing and storytelling of the pilot episode are well-crafted and engaging. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Topic of the Month02:51 Top Movies of the Early 2000s11:42 Top Music of the Early 2000s22:53 Top 40 Music Hits23:45 TV Shows of the Early 2000s29:36 Firefly TV Series44:31 Introduction of the Crew46:19 Themes of Faith and Loss49:57 Character Dynamics and Relationships00:00 Introduction to the Pilot Episode03:04 Character Dynamics and Development05:57 Review of the Pilot Episode09:01 Ranking System and Next Episode Description

  6. Jul 1

    Timecop TV - "The Future Jack The Future" Review/Broadcast Obits S3E10 "Rodney's Used Time Sleds"

    Most people’s idea of time travel involves sleek machines and high-tech gadgets; ours involves Bruce Campbell, the Time Sled, and a dash of 90s nostalgia that could make Doc Brown jealous. When Logan and his new best buddy— Tommy Maddox, played by the legend himself—plunge into the chaos of 1990 and beyond, they uncover a plot thicker than a Tamagotchi attachment. Crashing into history, stalling tech, and stock market mischief, this finale episode of Time Cop wraps up with more plot holes than Swiss cheese—yet, somehow, it’s pure 90s cheesy fun.This episode isn’t just about dodging dinosaurs with a cybernetic Elvis—oh wait, wrong movie—but about how even in the ridiculous chaos of time travel, you still get to see Logan throw footballs at kids, Maddox risking it all for stocks, and Bruce Campbell cracking wise like he’s auditioning for a role in the next Star Trek reboot. You’ll discover how the show’s half-baked science and time sleds are barely holding it together, yet still manage to deliver a roller coaster of cringey moments, hilarious banter, and one-liners that would make Bishop from The Lost City proud.We break down the biggest plot holes, from rogue AI stocks and mysterious government shutdowns to time loops so tangled even Q would get confused. Want to know why Cromwell’s evil plan was as clear as a Klingon language manual? Or how Maddox’s adrenaline addiction might just be the key to saving—or destroying—the space-time continuum? This episode covers it all—plus, an arguably-too-brief exploration of the series’ evolution from camp to slightly more coherent chaos.Why should you care? Because missing out on this laughably absurd ride could make you forever cursed to watch reality TV or worse—revisit your childhood memories only to realize they’re more like low-budget sci-fi nightmares. If you love a bit of nerdy nostalgia mixed with a sprinkling of ‘did they really think this was good?’-style storytelling, then this episode is your ticket to the ‘what if’ and ‘why’ of time travel TV shows.Featuring glowing reviews of Bruce Campbell’s acting prowess and a critique on how poorly these scripts aged, this finale isn’t just a wrap-up—it’s a love letter to the ‘90s TV era, with just enough sci-fi nonsense to remind you why you loved bad action flicks and cheesy TV as a kid. Perfect for nostalgists, ‘90s junkies, and anyone who secretly thinks they could do better in a writer’s room. Can’t wait to dive deeper into the chaos?Or to see Bruce Campbell—our real hero—steal the show in every scene? Hit play. Tune in for a wild ride through history, hilarity, and ‘that’s not how time works’ moments. This is essential listening if you’re ready to revisit punk rock, dial-up internet, and action scenes so bad they’re good. Buckle up; the space-time continuum isn’t just bent—it's totally warped.

  7. Jun 24

    Timecop TV Series - "DOA" Review/Broadcast Obituaries S3E9 "Live. Die. Repeat."

    Most people stumble through their 80s nostalgia like a teenager trying to fit into high-top sneakers—awkward, nostalgic, and just a little bit hilarious. But you? You're a time-traveling hero on a quest to decode the absurdities of ’90s pop culture and sci-fi, one episode at a time. Buckle up, because episode eight of our legendary podcast is a turbo-charged trip back to 1998, with a time cop episode that’s as tangled as your old Tamagotchi after a long weekend.Imagine Logan racing against a ticking clock—less than ten hours—to prevent his own murder, all while dealing with a confusing cast of villains, questionable acting, and a villainous scientist whose idea of a cool reveal involves a Magna Doodle and a stick figure. Yep, we’re diving into DOA: Dead on Arrival, where past, present, and future collide like a VHS tape stuck in the rewind. Things get so convoluted, even Data from Star Trek would be asking, “What just happened?” Yet, somehow, it’s a perfect storm of cheesy thrill ride and heartfelt beats, especially when Gene’s heartfelt moments with his son Will remind us that love is the real time travel magic.You’ll discover: the time travel rules that could make Doctor Who jealous; the very real danger of messing with the timeline (capitals and all); and a unique glimpse into late-90s music, tech, and Hollywood soundtracks that define the era’s endless quest for cool. We break down the episode’s deep philosophical debate—destiny, free will, and whether it’s better to go back twelve hours or a whole week—and how a tiny mistake like confusing an actress for Ashley Judd can lead to chaos.Why does this episode matter? Because messing with the past isn’t just fun; it’s the ultimate high-stakes game that can blow up your entire universe. From secret government labs to rogue villains, you’ll learn why precision matters in time travel, and how even a tiny slip-up can have ripple effects that make “Back to the Future” look like amateur hour.Perfect for any nerd who loves a good dose of nostalgia served with a twist of sarcasm and swagger, this episode is essential listening if you’re tired of bland podcasts and want a time machine packed with laughs, lore, and a sprinkle of ’90s magic. Whether you grew up watching “Time Cop,” loved old boy band hits, or just want to hear us goof about Bruce Campbell, you’re in the right place. Hit play now, or risk a temporal paradox—you’ve been warned.

About

Were some of the best sci-fi shows of the '90s cancelled before their time? Join hosts Rob Brooks and Aaron Schweizer as they dive deep into the archives of 1990s television to find out! Each season of Broadcast Obituaries: Gone Too Soon? focuses on a different, cancelled science fiction series. We'll re-watch, dissect, and have a little fun along the way to see if these shows were truly gone too soon. Tune in to critique with us and decide if your favorite forgotten sci-fi deserves a resurrection!