Aisha Harris

Join film critics Linda Holmes and Aisha Harris as they dive into the summer blockbuster phenomenon of 2023, dubbed 'Barbenheimer.' They discuss the Oscar race, with 'Oppenheimer' leading the pack and explore overlooked films vying for attention. The duo reflects on how social media has reshaped awards culture and engages in spirited predictions about which films will shine in the spotlight. From the surprises of Oscar nominations to their all-time favorites, this conversation captures the essence of cinema's evolving landscape.

Aisha Harris, co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour, dives into the chilling yet captivating world of women’s internal struggles as depicted in recent films. They dissect how movies like 'The Substance' and 'Nosferatu' artistically manifest themes of self-loathing and societal pressure. Harris highlights the impact of beauty standards on women’s self-image and explores the emotional isolation faced by female characters. The conversation reveals the tension between desire and shame, shedding light on the quest for self-acceptance in a world filled with grotesque expectations.

Aisha Harris, NPR culture critic, discusses the movie American Fiction as a satire of what the publishing industry wants from Black authors. The conversation explores the portrayal of blackness in American fiction, the value of intimate family dramas, and the tension over a successful book written by Centaur Golden. The episode also touches on the diversity in award season and the attention received by black stories in American fiction.

Aisha Harris and Stephen Thompson, hosts of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dive into the world of 'best of' lists that spark both joy and outrage. They discuss the recent backlash against Rolling Stone’s greatest singers list, tackling the exclusion of icons like Celine Dion. The conversation explores the complexities of rankings, the need for inclusivity, and how these lists influence audience choices. They also examine the evolving cultural canon and the role of these rankings in shaping our appreciation of art and cinema.

Join John Horn, 1A's entertainment correspondent, and Aisha Harris, co-host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, as they dissect the cinematic landscape of 2024. They explore a long-awaited sequel, a crowd-pleasing musical, and a thought-provoking drama-comedy set on a Holocaust tour. Discover standout films like Sean Baker's 'Anur' and the emotional depth of animated storytelling, including a touching tale of a robot raising a gosling. They also discuss anticipated films for the coming year and critically analyze disappointments in this year's cinematic offerings.