Scottish filmmaker Armando Iannucci’s In the Loop, a satire about the lead-up to the Iraq War, never achieved the household success of Veep (Iannucci’s later HBO series). Yet, D.C. staffers have come to see it as a cult classic, and there is much to be gleaned from the black comedy beyond the predictable, Beltway absurdities. Van and Lyle have the acclaimed journalist Spencer Ackerman on the show to discuss his own role in the film’s creation, as all three exchange biting laughs and commentary along the way. Especially about the rotting tooth that is Washington.  Bonus: In addition to dissecting the film, the first 30 minutes of this episode are an oral history of Spencer Ackerman’s experience with the making of In The Loop. Further Reading “How to succeed in Hollywood without really trying” (2009), by Spencer Ackerman “That’s Me and Him From The Sopranos” (2009), by Armando Iannucci Reign of Terror (2022), by Spencer Ackerman Iron Man Vol. 1 (2025), by Spencer Ackerman and Julius Ohta Forever Wars Newsletter, by Spencer Ackerman Perils of Dominance, by Gareth Porter In The Loop Trailer Teasers from the Episode Van and Lyle can only keep this show going with the support of patrons. Consider becoming part of the Bang-Bang tribe! This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.bangbangpod.com/subscribe