Watch Approval Matrix

Approval Matrix is a weekly television show from Sundance Channel that showcases and dissects the most significant events and happenings in popular culture from the past week. Helmed by host Neal Brennan, the series derives its name from the famous New York Magazine feature, which arranges various cultural touchstones on a two-by-two grid based on their prestige and relevance. Over the years, the approval matrix has become a beloved and definitive way for people to quickly catch up with the “it” moments of the week.

The show, which airs Friday nights, takes an in-depth look at the various cultural currents that made the headlines, put them into the existing categorization system of New York Magazine, and turns them into an engaging discussion. It offers viewers a deep dive into the most buzzworthy topics in TV, film, music, sports, and other entertainment avenues. The show’s format follows a talk-show, panel discussion format, with Brennan hosting live studio discussions with a rotating cast of thought leaders and celebrities.

The show's focus, in contrast to the magazine section, puts a unique angle on the cultural premise. The subjects featured every week are presented in terms of its position on the grid, which reflects its merits on relevance versus quality, highbrow versus lowbrow. The discussions revolve around why a particular song, artist, movie, or even viral video made a notable impression on the cultural zeitgeist, and the significance of the art choice beyond its moment in the sun.

One of the show's most interesting aspects is its ability to balance serious discussion and playful banter. Brennan and his guests dissect contemporary culture with a sharp wit and a shared desire to understand what makes these events and personalities captivating to wide audiences, introducing a mix of frivolous and erudite subjects ripe for discussion. This dynamic makes for engaging viewing and an entertaining analysis of the most talked-about pop culture events and personalities. For example, the show might discuss a highly controversial social issue on one segment and then transition to a celebrity feud that made the headlines, all with the same level of insightful attention.

Apart from its expert analysis of all things cultural, Approval Matrix is also an excellent showcase for the talents of its host and contributors. Brennan's ability to wrangle discussions and keep them on topic is impressive, and his humor and witty remarks bring life to the show. He further emphasizes the cultural significance of popular media and effortlessly draws out expert opinions from his guests while seamlessly anchoring the conversation.

As for the guests, the show boasts a diverse and notable cast that includes celebrated entertainers, comedians, critics, and writers with a wide range of perspectives that further enhances the show's depth. Celebrity guests like Lena Dunham, Chris Rock, and Sarah Silverman are regulars on the show and ensure that the show is often worth tuning in for. Their addition to the show's witty discussions and insightful commentary adds to the show's overall fun and provides a fresh perspective to the cultural commentary.

Critics of Approval Matrix have argued that the show's structure hinders some of the more in-depth conversations that could be had on particular topics. Still, the show's approach is a deliberate choice from producers who sought to simplify cultural analysis. Viewers who enjoy the show enjoy the use of the grid system—a filter that breaks down popular culture into manageable bitesize pieces. The show's format permits both uninitiated and aficionados to participate in a discussion that blends critical and entertainment culture with audacity, humor, and insight.

In conclusion, Approval Matrix delivers an in-depth and entertaining survey of popular culture that will appeal to smart, witty viewers. The show's structure is well-honed, and its host and guests add a perfect level of levity and insight. The use of the grid system is a clever device that allows viewers to unpack the complicated algorithms surrounding what is considered high-brow and low-brow in a way that ensures that the show often surprises and consistently informs. Anyone interested in what is new and exciting in cultural media will find something to enjoy here.

Approval Matrix is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between August 11, 2014 and on Sundance Channel