Apple TV+’s The Studio has quickly become one of the most talked-about shows of 2025, blending sharp Hollywood satire with a star-studded cast and clever insider jokes.
With Seth Rogen leading the charge as Matt Remick, the bumbling head of Continental Studios, the series is packed with references to iconic movies, actors, and the absurdities of the entertainment industry.
Below, we break down every major reference and joke from Episodes 1-4.
Episode 1: “The Head of Continental Studios” – A Love Letter to Cinema and Chaos
The premiere episode introduces Matt Remick (Seth Rogen), a self-proclaimed cinephile who dreams of balancing art and commerce at Continental Studios. The episode is rife with nods to Hollywood classics, including:
- Martin Scorsese Cameo: Scorsese plays himself as a director whose artistic vision clashes with studio demands. This is a playful jab at the real-life struggles Scorsese has faced in defending his cinematic style against commercial pressures.
- Goodfellas Reference: Matt unwinds by watching Goodfellas, symbolizing his romanticized view of filmmaking.
- Spike Jonze’s Zombie Film: A fictional project featuring zombies with diarrhea hilariously mocks the industry’s tendency to greenlight bizarre concepts for shock value.
The humor in this episode sets the tone for Matt’s journey as he grapples with his idealistic aspirations versus Hollywood’s harsh realities.
Episode 2: “The Oner” – A Tribute to Cinematic Ambition
This episode revolves around a single-take shot, or “oner,” in a film directed by Sarah Polley and starring Greta Lee. It’s both a technical marvel and a comedic disaster:
- Sarah Polley’s Artistic Vision: The episode highlights Polley’s dedication to her craft while poking fun at directors who obsess over technical perfection.
- Greta Lee’s Performance: Lee’s role in the fictional film mirrors her real-life reputation for delivering nuanced performances, adding depth to the satire.
- Matt’s Blunders: From parking outside the filming location to changing into casual clothes to “fit in,” Matt’s antics underscore his inability to navigate Hollywood politics without embarrassment.
This episode cleverly critiques Hollywood’s obsession with grandiose filmmaking techniques while celebrating their artistry.
Episode 3: “The Note” – Ron Howard’s Hilarious Cameo
Ron Howard guest-stars as himself in this episode, which focuses on studio notes given to directors:
- Howard’s Role: The show humorously exaggerates Howard’s reputation as a collaborative filmmaker who navigates studio interference with grace.
- Studio Notes Parody: The episode pokes fun at how executives often provide vague or contradictory feedback, leading to creative frustrations.
Howard’s appearance adds authenticity to the satire while showcasing his willingness to laugh at industry quirks.
Episode 4: “The Missing Reel” – Olivia Wilde Goes Full Fincher
Olivia Wilde steals the show in this Chinatown-inspired episode, directing Zac Efron in an overly ambitious noir film:
- Chinatown Homage: The film within the show blatantly mimics Chinatown, with characters joking about how “great artists steal”.
- Wilde’s Self-Parody: Wilde plays an intense director who insists on perfection, referencing real-life rumors about her directing style during Don’t Worry Darling.
- Zac Efron’s Hat Scene: Efron hilariously struggles through 40 takes of putting on a hat, mocking David Fincher’s notorious perfectionism.
- Missing Reel Drama: Wilde orchestrates the reel’s disappearance to force reshoots, showcasing her character’s manipulative tendencies while poking fun at Hollywood insurance schemes.
This episode blends meta-humor with sharp commentary on celebrity culture and filmmaking excess.
Why The Studio Is a Must-Watch
With its clever writing, star-studded cameos, and biting satire, The Studio offers a hilarious yet heartfelt look at Hollywood’s inner workings. Each episode builds on its predecessor by weaving together industry references and absurd scenarios that feel both exaggerated and painfully real.
Whether you’re a cinephile or just love smart comedy, The Studio delivers laughs and insights that are sure to keep audiences hooked.
About The Studio
Seth Rogen’s The Studio is a satirical comedy series on Apple TV+, co-created by Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, and Frida Perez.
Directed by Rogen, the show stars Rogen as Matt Remick, the new head of Continental Studios, navigating the challenges of reviving a struggling film studio amidst Hollywood’s evolving dynamics. The ensemble cast includes Catherine O’Hara as Matt’s mentor Patty Leigh, Ike Barinholtz as executive Sal Saperstein, Chase Sui Wonders as assistant Quinn Hackett, and Kathryn Hahn as marketing head Maya Mason.
The 10-episode series explores the chaos of filmmaking with appearances by Bryan Cranston and cameos from Martin Scorsese and Charlize Theron. Premiering March 26, 2025, it combines humor with a critique of Hollywood’s inner workings.
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