

Popcorn Psychology
Popcorn Psychology
Three licensed therapists breakdown and analyze popular movies and characters from the perspectives of an individual, child, and a marriage and family therapist.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 29, 2025 • 45min
Thunderbolts Panel Live from FanExpo Chicago 2025
Popcorn Psychology LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025!!! Panel 1 of 2 on Thunderbolts and When Marvel Gets Mental Health Right!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Aug 15, 2025 • 1h 45min
Big Fish: Having a Complicated Relationship With Your Parent
Join us as we take our first trip down Burton lane to talk about Big Fish! We go into depth about the characters of Edward and William and their complicated dynamic as father and son. We explore the motivation behind Edward's tall tales and their impact on his relationship with his son. So get your fishing rod and waders and join us in the deep waters of Big Fish!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 45min
Moonstruck: Identity Crises and Relationships
When the moon hits your eyes like a big pizzzza pie you will love this move all over again! Listen to this amazing episode on one of our favorite films ever! Hear us explore Identity Crises, Relationships, Grief, End of Life Issues, Cher, and hear the incredible weight of Hannah's massive talent!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 50min
Thunderbolts*: What Happens When Trauma Gets Superpowers?
Dive into the world of a new Marvel movie, where a team of antiheroes confronts their traumatic pasts. The discussion explores mental health themes, especially through the character Yelena's struggles with identity and depression. Relationships are dissected, highlighting the complexities of familial bonds marked by narcissism. The hosts humorously analyze character transformations, the challenges of diagnosing trauma, and the healing potential when characters develop supportive dynamics. Join the conversation as they unravel the emotional depth of superhero storytelling.

Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 37min
Godzilla Minus One: Moral Injury & Collective Trauma
IT'S GODZILLLLLAAAAA!!!! We are finally facing the notorious giant with Godzilla Minus One. This has been a highly requested movie since it came out in 2023. Join us as we break down the concept of moral injury seen in the main character, as well as the collective trauma experienced by the Japanese people after WWII. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

May 13, 2025 • 1h 26min
Starship Troopers: Adolescent Development & Propaganda
By fan request, we are diving into the 1997 cult classic, Starship Troopers! We break down how adolescent development is demonstrated with the main characters. We also explore the power of propaganda as this movie is a satirical look on facism and the propaganda that serves it. Buckle up and look out for bugs!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

14 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 20min
Inside Out 2: The Impact of Anxiety
Dive into the emotional landscape of Riley as she navigates adolescence in the sequel to a beloved film. Anxiety takes center stage, reshaping her inner emotional committee. The conversation unpacks useful coping strategies, including mindfulness and grounding techniques. Listen for insights on managing panic attacks, the dual nature of anxiety, and the influence of peer pressure on self-identity. The hosts offer a humorous yet profound look at shame and anger, making it clear that understanding emotions is key to thriving during tough times.

Feb 15, 2025 • 1h 52min
My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Enmeshment
Happy Valentine's Day! This year you all picked "My Big Fat Greek Wedding". Enjoy as we dive into the concept of enmeshment: what that means, the factors that can create enmeshment, and the impact of enmeshment on an individual's development. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 37min
A Christmas Story: Kids & Their Parents
Dive into the nostalgia of a holiday classic as the hosts unpack the child-parent dynamics in 'A Christmas Story.' They explore how parenting styles have evolved, highlighting the tension between modern over-involvement and the freedom of unstructured play. The discussion navigates the roots of childhood bullying and how emotional regulation shapes behavior. Relationship strains in parenting are examined through humor and reflection, offering insights into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of parental authority.

26 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 36min
Home Alone: Family Issues, Holiday Stress, and KEVIN!!!
Delve into the holiday classic as the podcast analyzes Kevin McAllister's behavioral challenges rooted in family dynamics. Discover how holiday stress creates emotional chaos, impacting relationships and leading to anxiety for characters. The speakers discuss the importance of empathy in understanding gifted children and the struggles parents face. Unpacking themes of guilt and personal growth, they emphasize mending family ties to foster healing. Join for an insightful exploration of nostalgia mixed with psychological depth!