Damnbueno

Damnbueno - Screaming at the ScreenDamnbueno got his nickname in 8th grade Spanish class when his friend shouted out "You're pretty damn good at Spanish." The teacher insisted he say it in Spanish, so the friend said "Esto es damn bueno en Espanol." The nickname stuck. These days, when he's not forgetting his 8th grade Spanish, Damnbueno is indulging his obsession with all things Survivor. Reach him in the comments section here at True Dork Times.

His column, "Screaming at the Screen" debuted here at the True Dork Times in 2022, when he first wrote about Survivor 42.

  • S47 logo Survivor 47
    Perception vs. Andy's reality - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 11: Perception vs. Andy's reality

    Survivor Episode 11 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 28, 2024

    Damnbueno pushes back on Andy's edit in Survivor 47, with a deep dive on the disparity between Andy's view of his own game vs. how his tribemates describe his game. Then Damnbueno runs through the extremely Rachel-centric events of Episode 11, from a fast-moving journey task to slow and patient immunity win.

    Mid-season report card - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 10: Mid-season report card

    Survivor Episode 10 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 21, 2024

    Before getting into the events of Episode 10, Damnbueno assesses the chances of winning of the final nine. Then it's off to the rice-fueled slithering races, and seeing how the numbers realign themselves as Tuku tumbles.

    Politely, WTF? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 9: Politely, WTF?

    Survivor Episode 9 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 14, 2024

    Damnbueno tries to assign credit for the last episode's boot, then dives into the chaos of Survivor 47, Episode 9's messy Tribal. (It was Genevieve.) But was it a good move, long-term?

    When is unpredictable too predictable? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 8: When is unpredictable too predictable?

    Survivor Episode 8 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 7, 2024

    Damnbueno wades through Episode 8's auction, and finds the Survivor 47 version was very long and stubbornly retained all the same flaws found in 45's. But the post-IC maneuvering and a clever Shot in the Dark play elevated the rest of the episode.

    An unwelcome return with a championship twist - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 7: An unwelcome return with a championship twist

    Survivor Episode 7 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 31, 2024

    Amid minor distractions from the World Series, Damnbueno rounds the bases of Episode 7 of Survivor 47, an episode that returned the bag of rocks, random-drawn teams, and only six, er, five people voting (ugh), but at least gave Sol something fun to do, briefly.

    Comeuppance is best served sweet - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 6: Comeuppance is best served sweet

    Survivor Episode 6 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 24, 2024

    Damnbueno is here for the fireworks of Episode 6's almost-normal merge, with advantages and feasts and burning amulets and one big-talking player finally reaching the end of his soliloquy.

    A nice twist for a change - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 5: A nice twist for a change

    Survivor Episode 5 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 17, 2024

    First, a detour through past challenge-throwing attempts, then Damnbueno evaluates the big twist of Survivor 47, Episode 5, and how the contestants handled it, plus Gata's big (non-thrown) challenge loss and final pre-merge boot decision.

    Shameless self-promotion ... perhaps - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 4: Shameless self-promotion ... perhaps

    Survivor Episode 4 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 10, 2024

    After another immunity loss (and another lost vote) in Episode 4 of Survivor 47, things get chaotic at Lavo, and Damnbueno evaluates the strategic implications of Genevieve's big move. Was it the right one?

    The fast and furiously cocky - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 3: The fast and furiously cocky

    Survivor Episode 3 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 3, 2024

    An Episode 3 journey brings lack of choices back to Survivor 47, but then thrusts power-altering changes into the game that cause the losing tribe to make different choices than they were planning. Damnbueno runs through the choices (or lack thereof), starting with: Never get on the boat.

    Buried his own grave - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 2: Buried his own grave

    Survivor Episode 2 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 26, 2024

    As Survivor 47 settles into its regular-sized episode run, Damnbueno examines the overconfidences, oversharing of idols, and overarching men-overplaying vibes of Episode 2. Plus a deep dive into classic Survivor meltdowns.

    We're in for a bumpy ride - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 1: We're in for a bumpy ride

    Survivor Episode 1 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 19, 2024

    Damnbueno speed-runs through the muddy, overheated capsizings and counter-moves of the two-hour Survivor 47 premiere, everything from key scenes to scenes of keys (and keys, and keys).

    Diving in to the Survivor 47 cast - Screaming at the Screen

    Pre-season: Diving in to the Survivor 47 cast

    Survivor Pre-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 16, 2024

    With just days left before the 47 premiere, Damnbueno has combed through the pre-game interviews in his attempt to predict how the new contestants will fare in the seventh rendition of the New Era game. Who has the best chance to win, and who will leave with an idol in their pocket?

    How to win New Era Survivor - Screaming at the Screen

    Pre-season: How to win New Era Survivor

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 3, 2024

    As we wait for Survivor 47 to air, Damnbueno has a handy guide to the optimal path to victory in the New Era: The importance of being strategically subtle, having strong alliances, maybe an occasional challenge win, and much more.

  • S46 logo Survivor 46
    What a bumpy but fun ride - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 13: What a bumpy but fun ride

    Survivor 46 Episode 13 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 23, 2024

    Survivor 46 has at last crowned its champion, and Damnbueno is here to run through all the big whiffs, assisted victories, and surprisingly malleable jurors of the finale and the aftershow.

    Death seats and deadly idols - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 12: Death seats and deadly idols

    Survivor 46 Episode 12 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 16, 2024

    As Episode 12 of Survivor 46 delivered more reward haves and have-nots, another unplayed idol blindside, and the first shots fired in the Charlie vs. Maria war, Damnbueno tries to project where this is all going to end up when the jury votes next week.

    We need more speedbumps! - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 11: We need more speedbumps!

    Survivor 46 Episode 11 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 9, 2024

    Episode 11 of Survivor 46 was a series of almost-victories and perilous decisions, with a lot of bickering (and pizza) in between. Damnbueno recaps the plans that worked, those that didn't, and reassesses who is best positioned as the endgame looms.

    Are idols broken? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 10: Are idols broken?

    Survivor 46 Episode 10 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 2, 2024

    The new era has seen the most power come from idols that weren't played, as Damnbueno breaks down the recent history, and recaps the departure of another one from the game in Episode 10 of Survivor 46. Does the potential value of idols still outweigh the risk?

    Mid-season report card - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 9: Mid-season report card

    Survivor 46 Episode 9 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 25, 2024

    After updating the remaining players' chances of winning, Damnbueno dives into the continuing Tribal Council chaos seen in Episode 9 of Survivor 46. Is there a clear winner candidate yet?

    Was this chaos organized, dumb, or both? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 8: Was this chaos organized, dumb, or both?

    Survivor 46 Episode 8 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 18, 2024

    Damnbueno recaps the confusing, chaotic Episode 8 Tribal Council from Survivor 46, along with the various hijinks that preceded it, but in no way seemed to prepare anyone for it. What happened?

    More sneaky sneaky, less sloppy sloppy - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 7: More sneaky sneaky, less sloppy sloppy

    Survivor 46 Episode 7 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 11, 2024

    It's another rock-draw-driven outcome in Episode 7 of Survivor 46 (just as it was at the same point last season), but as Damnbueno recounts, the intra-Nami squabbling kept things interesting as the two teams attended separate Tribals.

    To overplay, or underplay? That is the question - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 6: To overplay, or underplay? That is the question

    Survivor 46 Episode 6 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 4, 2024

    It's three tribes, one shelter in Episode 6 of Survivor 46, and Damnbueno gives his thoughts on the unfolding aggressive plays and subtle moves as the semi-merge moves through its new era checkpoints. Who is now best positioned for the future?

    Wild cards and wild strategies - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 5: Wild cards and wild strategies

    Survivor 46 Episode 5 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 28, 2024

    After a history of loose-cannon players (and how to deal with them), Damnbueno celebrates Episode 5 of Survivor 46 finally revealing the strategic lines within a tribe that isn't Yanu, and the plays and overplays that led to this week's boot.

    To lead or not to lead - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 4: To lead or not to lead

    Survivor 46 Episode 4 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 21, 2024

    Damnbueno examines the perils of (visible) leadership, as Episode 4 of Survivor 46 shows us Yanu members grappling with perceived vs. actual leadership, someone leading her tribe on a wild goose chase, and jumping lessons.

    Lifestyles of the rich and (too) truthful - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 3: Lifestyles of the rich and (too) truthful

    Survivor 46 Episode 3 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 14, 2024

    As Survivor 46 settles into its regular run-time, Damnbueno talks about the episode's over-sharing (with one exception), and its "miracles for one are a tragedy for someone else" ending. Plus a look back at players who "don't need the money."

    A wide variety of mistakes - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 2: A wide variety of mistakes

    Survivor 46 Episode 2 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 7, 2024

    It's another two-hour Survivor 46 episode, this one spending a long time in the Yanu camp. Damnbueno gives his reactions to their and the other tribe's various strategic triumphs and misplays.

    Could this be my dream season? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 1: Could this be my dream season?

    Survivor 46 Episode 1 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: February 29, 2024

    With an extra-long, two-hour Survivor 46 premiere, Damnbueno has a lot of ground to cover, but luckily, one guy keeps volunteering to be in every scene, and keeps messing up and/or quitting. Jelinsky got the title quote and the focus, which unfortunately carried over to Tribal, but Damnbueno is happy about what looks like the perfect mix of contestant types.

    But I don't make predictions! - Screaming at the Screen

    Pre-season: But I don't make predictions!

    Survivor 46 Pre-season cast analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: February 25, 2024

    With the Survivor 46 premiere days away, Damnbueno has watched all of the contestants' pre-game interviews, made when the actual game was mere days away, and has come up with a list of potential standouts and longshots. But he doesn't make predictions.

  • S45 logo Survivor 45
    Satisfaction! - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 13: Satisfaction!

    Survivor 45 Episode 13 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 21, 2023

    Survivor 45 has crowned its champion, and Damnbueno is here with his in-progress reactions to the chaos, challenges, various Jake-ing, and through it all, the calm competence of Dee in the finale and Aftershow. Farewell to a well-played season, hello to a new tribe forming.

    The head vs. the heart - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 12: The head vs. the heart

    Survivor 45 Episode 12 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 14, 2023

    There's still one more episode of Survivor 45 to go, but Damnbueno is ready to crown the best strategic player of the season: Dee. Episode 12 showed her dodging and manipulating the episode, securing her desired outcome, and doing all this while almost entirely undetected. Can she go all the way?

    New era whack-a-strategic-player - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 11: New era whack-a-strategic-player

    Survivor 45 Episode 11 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 7, 2023

    As another big Survivor 45 player gets the boot in Episode 11, right after making a big move, Damnbueno looks ahead to the player making that move also getting the boot, ad infinitum. Also, a whole lot of jury preference projections.

    Can a Big Move be the wrong move? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 10: Can a Big Move be the wrong move?

    Survivor 45 Episode 10 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 30, 2023

    At long last, everyone is finally voting on Survivor 45 in Episode 10, and Bruce does not have immunity. Damnbueno ponders the logic of taking out someone holding an idol while sparing the alliance that seems to be running the game.

    It could be worse, it could be raining - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 9: It could be worse - it could be raining

    Survivor 45 Episode 9 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 23, 2023

    Damnbueno is thankful that three people losing their votes didn't turn out worse, but Survivor 45's Episode 9 still delivered a bit of a turkey. Which you then had to eat with your bare hands.

    A positive evolution - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 8: A positive evolution

    Survivor 45 Episode 8 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 16, 2023

    The auction is back in Episode 8 of Survivor 45, and Damnbueno takes you through the twists (of course there's a twist) and stomach-turns of that and the immunity challenge, plus a high-powered blindside at the subsequent Tribal Council.

    Who's playing the long game? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 7: Who's playing the long game?

    Survivor 45 Episode 7 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 9, 2023

    We've hit Episode 7 of Survivor 45, so it's time for the first individual challenge (sort of), and Damnbueno is happy to finally start evaluating who is playing the best long-term strategic game, who's treading water, and who's going under.

    The dumb luck factor - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 6: The dumb luck factor

    Survivor 45 Episode 6 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 2, 2023

    As the tribes join together-ish, the target narrows to six players, thanks to a twist. But one of them is miraculously saved, thanks to another twist. And another is targeted and leaves, thanks to a third twist. And yet, as Damnbueno agrees, it's all '___ crazy' fun

    The power of indecision ... to backfire - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 5: The power of indecision ... to backfire

    Survivor 45 Episode 5 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 25, 2023

    Episode 5, the last pre-merge(atory) one of Survivor 45, was all about choices - Emily picking a side, or the journey trio deciding between sandwiches and amulets. Damnbueno evaluates those decisions, as the real game seems close to starting.

    Who wants to play Survivor? - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 4: Who wants to play Survivor? No really, who?

    Survivor 45 Episode 4 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 19, 2023

    On Survivor 45, Episode 4 was a week of firsts - first swap of the new era, first win for Lulu, first time Lulu has fire - and also a week of seconds, as the season experienced its second quit. Damnbueno rounds all this up and evaluates how the swap affected players' positions.

    The lost art of silence - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 3: The lost art of silence

    Survivor 45 Episode 3 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 12, 2023

    Episode 3 of Survivor 45 packed more big events into its hour-and-a-half, but it still managed to highlight most of the relationships important to how those events unfolded. Damnbueno recaps those and the big blindside, just before it all gets rent asunder in next week's swap.

    The twist that doesn't twist - Screaming at the Screen

    Episode 2: The twist that doesn't twist

    Survivor 45 Episode 2 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 5, 2023

    After a denser, richer 90-minute Episode 2 that spent more time in camp than in recent seasons, Damnbueno mulls over Lulu's strategic choices and wonders about the implications of the Ep1 tribe-visit twist that was edited out for time.

    Survivor deja vu - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 45

    Episode 1: Survivor déja vu

    Survivor 45 Episode 1 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 28, 2023

    Damnbueno recounts the drama, collapses, misplays, oversharing, occasional triumphs, general chaos, and downer ending of the season premiere of Survivor 45. Featuring a few players who look like ones you may remember (especially Bruce).

    The (lack of) evolution of the <em>Survivor</em> alpha male

    Pre-season: The (lack of) evolution of the Survivor alpha male

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 5, 2023

    Damnbueno looks back on the pitfalls and obvious but frequently ignored lessons of attempting to play Survivor as an alpha male. With fewer attempts in the new era, has the archetype finally run its course?

  • S44 logo Survivor 44
    A finale this|close to a classic - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 13: A finale this|close to a classic

    Survivor 44 Episode 13 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 25, 2023

    Damnbueno wraps up his Survivor 44 commentary with a run through the finale and aftershow, with particular focus on a Final Tribal Council that he feels ranks among the all-time best, with each finalist presenting a strong case for the million.

    A race to a great finish - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 12: A race to a great finish

    Survivor 44 Episode 12 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 18, 2023

    With the endgame in clear sight, Damnbueno talks about the moves that should or shouldn't have been made in Episode 12 of Survivor 44 (as well as those that actually were).

    Mergatory report card update - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 11: Mergatory report card update

    Survivor 44 Episode 11 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 11, 2023

    Prior to his recap, Damnbueno runs through an assessment of each member of the Final 7's chances of winning, then dives into the surprise wins and big moves of Episode 11. Is Final 7 too early to make a flashy move?

    Oh frontrunner, where art thou? - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 10: Oh frontrunner, where art thou?

    Survivor 44 Episode 10 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 5, 2023

    As Damnbueno sees a winner contender fall in Episode 10 of Survivor 44, he ponders the optimal path to the end in new era Survivor, and the lack of a clear picture of who's really 'running the game.'

    Final nine is divine ... I hope - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 9: Final nine is divine ... I hope

    Survivor 44 Episode 9 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 27, 2023

    Damnbueno takes a look at the struggle for power in Episode 9 of Survivor 44, with three tribes trying to seize the reins, as the game finally gets under way in earnest. With the requisite mid-Tribal whispering, of course.

    Coping with new era Survivor - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 8: Coping with new era Survivor

    Survivor 44 Episode 8 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 20, 2023

    After a brief deep dive into core strategic approaches that are still valid in the new era, Damnbueno plunges into Episode 8 of Survivor 44, which actually had a fair amount of strategic gameplay, and featured the entire merge tribe finally voting and being at risk.

    Textbook self-destruction - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 7: Mergatory report card

    Survivor 44 Episode 7 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 13, 2023

    Before going through the rock-draw-driven events of Episode 7 of Survivor 44, Damnbueno hands out his mid-season grades for the gameplay of the remaining competitors, then jumps back into the key-finding and split-squadding action.

    Textbook self-destruction - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 6: Textbook self-destruction

    Survivor 44 Episode 6 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 6, 2023

    Episode 6 of Survivor 44 marks the sort-of-merge, and Damnbueno is excited as the game (sort-of) kicks into high gear with the individual phase of the game. But first, a review of the wide gray area between a quit and a medevac.

    To sit or not to sit? - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 5: To sit or not to sit?

    Survivor 44 Episode 5 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 30, 2023

    Damnbueno looks at the maneuvering and idol shenanigans in Episode 5 of Survivor 44, most of which - while entertaining - ultimately became moot as another player left the game for medical reasons.

    When living in a crazy world, learn how to speak crazy - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 4: When living in a crazy world, learn how to speak crazy

    Survivor 44 Episode 4 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 23, 2023

    Damnbueno has the run-down on Episode 4 of Survivor 44, featuring a doubling of active idols, even more fake idols, a sort-of swap, and both literal and strategic bellyflops.

    To play is to overplay ... sometimes - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 3: To play is to overplay ... sometimes

    Survivor 44 Episode 3 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 16, 2023

    Damnbueno takes you on a tour through Episode 3 of 44, from the fake idol finds, to coming-and-going injuries, to playing too hard, to competing too little, to hesitating about making a decision. Plus gargoyles!

    Survivor minds over Matt-ers - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 2: Survivor minds over Matt-ers

    Survivor 44 Episode 2 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 9, 2023

    After a brief tour through the history of Survivor Matts, Damnbueno dives into Episode 2 of 44, including all the idol hunts, Matt-related events, and surprise reconfigurations of voting alliances at Tribal.

    Island of No Secrets - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 44

    Episode 1: Island of No Secrets

    Survivor 44 Episode 1 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 2, 2023

    Damnbueno is back for 44 with a first-look run-through of the two-hour premiere, from the injuries to the oversharing to the too-many-to-count (and mostly public) advantages and Shots and idols played at the first Tribal Council. Can't any of you people keep a secret?

  • S43 logo Survivor 43
    Stats (some meaningless) for a finale - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 13: Stats (some meaningless) for a finale

    Survivor 43 Episode 13 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 15, 2022

    Well, Survivor 43 is certainly over. Damnbueno rolls out his reactions to the action as it unfolds, and his immediate attempts to understand the ending. (It's mostly jaw-dropped Jeanine face.)

    This is why I LOVE Survivor! - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 12: This is why I LOVE Survivor!

    Survivor 43 Episode 12 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 8, 2022

    Survivor 43's second-to-last episode features plans on top of plans on top of plans, and Damnbueno is excited about every last second of it, particularly including Jesse's glorious double idol-flushing (neither his own) pièce de résistance.

    The agony of the follow-up - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 11: The agony of the follow-up

    Survivor 43 Episode 11 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: December 1, 2022

    Damnbueno runs through Episode 11, which follows his favorite episode of the season, and celebrates Survivor 43 ditching Do or Die in favor of a clean Final Seven vote, but then notes the show backslides into a possible Advantagegeddon redux in the process.

    To the observant go the spoils - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 10: To the observant go the spoils

    Survivor 43 Episode 10 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 24, 2022

    A classic strategic catch-22 ensnares one player, while another gets the editors' full endorsement for an "anatomy of a blindside" explainer, all in Episode 10 of Survivor 43. For Damnbueno, was this a great episode, or the greatest episode of the season?

    Split-squad drama - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 9: Split-squad drama

    Survivor 43 Episode 9 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 17, 2022

    With one challenge and two Tribals, Episode 9 of Survivor 43 managed to pack in a surprising amount of conflict and big moves, with two key votes breaking up the majority Seven. Damnbueno recaps the big wins and blindsides.

    A brief history of Survivor producer meddling - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 8: A brief history of Survivor producer meddling

    Survivor 43 Episode 8 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 10, 2022

    In a two-part column, Damnbueno kicks off with a reaction to Knowledge is Power being thrust back into the game a second time, followed by his reactions to Episode 8, where idol-related antics continued. (But KiP was somehow forgotten?)

    Survivor Blabbermouths - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 7: Survivor Blabbermouths

    Survivor 43 Episode 7 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: November 3, 2022

    If there was a recurring activity in Episode 7 of Survivor 43, it was talking: Jeff Probst talking and talking through an extra-long challenge, Gabler doing the same in the final stage, James telling everyone in sight about his Knowledge is Power advantage. So Damnbueno is here to talk some more about that, and suggest the missing theme for the season.

    Stay humble, or die - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 6: Stay humble, or die

    Survivor 43 Episode 6 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 27, 2022

    Survivor 43 sort of hits its merge episode, and Damnbueno highlights the dangers of playing the game with overconfidence, especially in a minefield of random draws and lack of information equilibrium.

    Being annoying for fun and profit - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 5: Being annoying for fun and profit

    Survivor 43 Episode 5 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 20, 2022

    After a brief journey through Survivor history, Damnbueno looks at the flubs, acting, self-dunks, and strategic miscues of Episode 5 of Survivor 43, with an excited eye to how all the tensions and rivalries could combust when the tribes are brought together next week.

    Introducing the Coco tribe - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 4: Introducing the Coco tribe

    Survivor 43 Episode 4 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 13, 2022

    A return to the classic reward-immunity-Tribal structure for Episode 4 of Survivor 43, and with it both a camp raid and (finally) a trip to Tribal Council for the Coco tribe, which Damnbueno says reveals a lot about the six players we've barely met until now.

    Quick thinking pays off - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 3: Quick thinking pays off

    Survivor 43 Episode 3 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: October 6, 2022

    Episode 3 of Survivor 43 was light on strategy and heavy on idols and advantages, but also personalities and relationships. Damnbueno takes in all the actions and reactions and asks whether the Vesi tribe members made the correct decisions.

    We're on strategy watch - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 2: We're on strategy watch

    Survivor 43 Episode 2 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 29, 2022

    Idol hunting and snooping began in earnest (and paid off ... or did it?), pairs abound throughout the game, and one tribe had to maneuver around one, possibly two missing votes. Damnbueno is back with a more strategy-focused look at Episode 2 of Survivor 43.

    Episode 1: LIVIN - Screaming at the Screen, Survivor 43

    Episode 1: LIVIN

    Survivor 43 Episode 1 recap/ analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 22, 2022

    Damnbueno gives his quick reactions to a double-length premiere. He applauds the show's return to a form lacking some of 41/42's most objectionable twists, and tries to parse which of the group of 18 new contestants are the best prepared, and are making good game choices so far.

    Why subtlety prevails over big moves in Survivor: Part 2 - Screaming at the Screen

    Seasons past: Why subtlety prevails over 'big moves' in Survivor: Part 2

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 12, 2022

    Damnbueno's series on the power of subtlety concludes with a look at a few more winners, plus some non-winners who fell just short, all with a continued emphasis that quiet, non-flashy manipulation of the other players will get a contestant further in the game than someone blowing up the game with 'Big Moves.'

    Why subtlety prevails over big moves in Survivor: Part 1 - Screaming at the Screen

    Seasons past: Why subtlety prevails over 'big moves' in Survivor: Part 1

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: September 6, 2022

    In another inter-season series, Damnbueno pushes back on the modern Survivor refrain that "you have to make Big Moves to win," and highlights six specific examples in which eventual season winners instead subtly manipulated their castmates into making moves that ultimately improved their position in the game. Even in the "new era" game!

    Race in Survivor: Part 2 - Screaming at the Screen

    Seasons past: Race in Survivor: Part 2

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: August 22, 2022

    Damnbueno concludes his look at the history of race (and racism) in Survivor with a deeper dive into individual case studies of players whose seasons included incidents or accusations of racism. Plus an attempt to list why every Black player was voted out.

    Race in Survivor: Part 1 - Screaming at the Screen

    Seasons past: Race in Survivor: Part 1

    Survivor Multi-season analysis

    By Damnbueno | Published: August 15, 2022

    In which Damnbueno takes a look at the reasons why discussions about race became such a prominent component of Survivors 41 and 42, the show's history of (scant) minority representation, and what the increased diversity of recent seasons means (and doesn't mean) for the show moving forward.

  • S42 logo Survivor 42
    (Mis)perception is everything

    Episode 13: (Mis)perception is everything

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 26, 2022

     

    The Survivor 42 season finale featured challenge beasts falling short, straight-shooters misfiring, and overlooked or "weak" players coming up big at the end. Damnbueno recaps the action as it unfolds, and offers his thoughts on the season as a whole.


    Episode 12: "Caterpillar to a Butterfly"

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 19, 2022

     

    Damnbueno fires off his reactions to the twists, turns, challenges, and that Big Move of Episode 12 of Survivor 42, then pulls together all the threads of the season to weave a pre-finale prediction of juror preferences, and who might emerge at the end as Monarch.


    Episode 11: Keep your mouth shut

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 12, 2022

     

    As the final seven vote actually happens (phew!) in Episode 11, Damnbueno recaps and reacts to the events of the episode, proposes a rule for future players that would have helped the one who left the episode in high-spirited fashion, and assesses the remaining players' chances of winning.


    Episode 10: "Tell a Good Lie, Not a Stupid Lie"

    By Damnbueno | Published: May 5, 2022

     

    Damnbueno looks back at Episode 10 of Survivor 42, featuring the fall of a prominent strategist, the challenge sweep by a more subtle one, and the continuing omniscient omnipresence of Omar.


    Episode 9: "Game of Chicken"

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 28, 2022

     

    Damnbueno takes a look at the flurry of activity in Episode 9 of Survivor 42, from the extremely short-lived guys alliance, to the split immunity challenge, to the twin Tribal Councils and the heavy topics discussed and moves made at the second one.


    Episode 8: "You Better Be Wearing a Seatbelt"

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 21, 2022

     

    After a deep dive into merge boots, Damnbueno takes on Episode 8 of Survivor 42, from sit-outs to advantages to negotiated sit-outs to buoys (lots of buoys) to Omar's wizardry and the curious game of Chanelle.


    Episodes 6-7: "You Can't Hide on Survivor/The Devil You Do or the Devil You Don't"

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 14, 2022

     

    It's the merge (eventually, wait for it ... ah, there, finally), and Damnbueno has a lot to discuss, from everyone telling everyone everything, all of the time, to Probst's blatant lying and that damn hourglass. Again. But also the ascent of some subtle power players.


    Episode 5: "I'm Survivor Rich"

    By Damnbueno | Published: April 7, 2022

     

    There's still a lot of oversharing in Episode 5 of Survivor 42, but at last it pays off for the Beware Idols. Damnbueno runs through that development, the ins and outs of the now-merging tribes, and the surprising tactics at the Tribal Council vote.


    Episode 4: "Vibe of the Tribe"

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 31, 2022

     

    Things are getting fishy in Episode 4 of Survivor 42, and Damnbueno is here to peel back the scales, from Daniel's continuing foibles, to the excessive Jonathaning throughout the episode, to the remarkable ability of Ika to keep booting young superfans, while keeping around their two most obvious boots.


    Episode 3: "Go for the Gusto"

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 24, 2022

     

    For Episode 3 of Survivor 42, Damnbueno has a lot of content to get through, from "lost" idols to more oversharing, from new weird phrases to an old twist finally delivering the result it was intended to, and from seemingly oblivious challenge beasting to rock-dodging disasters.


    Episode 2: "Good and Guilty"

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 17, 2022

     

    Damnbueno takes us through his rapid reactions to Episode 2, including thoughts on who's playing too much, who's over-sharing, and who's hitting that just-right "medium" play pace to set themselves up for the win.


    Episode 1: "Feels Like a Rollercoaster"

    By Damnbueno | Published: March 10, 2022

     

    In which Damnbueno gives rapid-response, off-the-cuff reactions to the season premiere of Survivor 42: The challenges, the contestants, the new twists, everything. Get your commenting fingers ready ... go!