The Shape of Outer Space

Ancient Chinese Dark Magic

Host Paul Cuminale is joined by returning panel members Justin Pallini and Dan Perry for a new departure episode focusing on the mysterious world of Ancient Chinese Dark Magic. Together, they explore tales of talismans, spells, and sorcery, while examining the centuries-long quest for eternal life. In a new installment of "Terminology Breakdown," the panel unpacks the Eight Immortals and the magical artifacts associated with each. They conclude their journey into the supernatural with a special round of "Guess the Star: Chinese Folklore Edition."

Tycho Brahe

Host Paul Cuminale is joined by Justin Pallini, Otis Bradshaw, and resident “bad boy” Dan Perry to discuss the legendary and eccentric astronomer Tycho Brahe. The panel explores Tycho’s origins, groundbreaking astronomical work, and famously bizarre lifestyle, including his personal dwarf, his hard-drinking pet moose, his fake nose, and his alleged penchant for naked stargazing. Along the way, the group dramatizes Brahe’s infamous duel before capping the episode off with a rousing game of “Guess the Star.”

The Zanfretta Case

Host Paul Cuminale is joined by Justin Pallini, Thomas Chew, and “bad boy” Dan Perry to examine the infamous Zanfretta UFO Incident from Genoa, Italy, in which night watchman Pier Fortunato Zanfretta allegedly encountered reptilian beings throughout the late 1970s. The panel dives into the nature of alien abduction, reptilian theory and the disturbingly vast phalluses associated with said reptilians, the hidden truth about libraries, and the many serpentine creatures woven throughout human mythology. You won’t want to miss this one!

The Whale (2022)

Host Paul Cuminale is joined by Justin Pallini and resident “bad boy” Dan Perry to discuss The Whale, directed by Darren Aronofsky. The panel explores the film’s emotional core, reflects on the career and filmography of Brendan Fraser, and uncovers the surprisingly profound themes lurking beneath the surface of Encino Man. Along the way, they attempt to visualize what whales of space might look like before concluding with a special round of “Guess the Star: Portly Hollywood Figure Edition.”

Neptune

Host Paul Cuminale is joined by Justin Pallini to visit the oft-forgotten planet Neptune. Together, they traverse its tumultuous winds in search of the secrets that may lie within, investigate the mysterious origins of its moon Triton, and even theorize about the planet’s hypothetical feelings. Along the way, they reflect on memories of first summer-camp loves and the emotions tied to them, before capping it all off with a round of “Guess the Star: Planet Edition.”