

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

Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 42min
Sinners: Systemic Trauma & Musical Healing
Happy Halloween! For our spooky episode of 2025, we are discussing Sinners! This is Hannah and Brittney's favorite movie of 2025 and we are so excited to be talking about it.We discuss many heavy topics: childhood abuse, racial violence, oppressive systems; so be mindful while listening. Below you can find the research referenced by Brittney in this episode:https://lazarussiafa.medium.com/myth-metaphor-and-meaning-a-deep-dive-into-the-overwhelming-symbolic-architecture-in-the-movie-24e39197990dhttps://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2025/04/11881716/sinners-movie-ending-explained-wunmi-mosaku-interviewhttps://tapmagazine.org/all-articles/sinners-is-a-film-about-black-joyhttps://theemancipator.org/2025/04/26/topics/movies-and-tv/sinners-movie-analysis-beautiful-struggle-belong-survive/https://thedig.howard.edu/all-stories/sinners-have-souls-too-humanization-deep-south-ryan-cooglers-southern-gothic-horror-sinnershttps://www.horrorhomeroom.com/black-joy-white-interruptions-sinners-and-the-afrofuturism-of-black-horror/https://browderfile.substack.com/p/the-psychology-of-sinners-and-theBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 47min
KPop Demon Hunters: Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections
Today we are gonna show you how its's DONE DONE DONE as we cover the MOVIE. OF. THE. YEAR. K-Pop Demon Hunters! In this episode we discuss Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections with those closest to you! This film has taken over the hearts of kids and adults everywhere and is absolutley GOLDEN! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 44min
The Neverending Story: Identity, Grief, & Healing Through Stories
Come with us on a journey to Fantasia in this episodes film, Neverending Story. In this episode we discuss the shift in idenity that takes place when we lose a loved one. We discover the stages of grief throughout the film. We also discuss bibliotherapy and using stories to help heal ourselves. Please enjoy this wild ride with us. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Sep 8, 2025 • 40min
The Last of Us LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025
The Trolley Problem meets Zombies! Enjoy this Live episode on The Last of Us (HBO) from FanExpo Chicago 2025!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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.


