
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.
Latest episodes

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 53min
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: Why You Need Your Memories
Explore the characters of Clementine and Joel in 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' and discuss the ethics of memory erasure procedures. Delve into the complexities of relationships between introverts and extroverts, and the role of emotions in memory encoding. Critique the unethical behavior of technicians and the concept of trauma work. Analyze the unsuitability of Joel and Clementine for couples therapy and emphasize the importance of support groups. Plus, thoughts on the film's acting performances and portrayal of fading memories.

Dec 23, 2023 • 1h 13min
Seinfeld & Festivus: Trauma & Personality Disorders
Happy December 23rd! Or how its known in the Costanza household: HAPPY FESTIVUS! Join us as we round out 2023 by getting out our metal poles and discussing the Festivus episode of Seinfeld. We discuss how trauma is represented by George Costanza as well as how Festivus is a holiday made by and for someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. We wish you all a happy new year and we hope you all win your family's feats of strength!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Dec 22, 2023 • 1h 26min
Jingle All the Way and Being a Present Parent
Merry Christmas! This holiday season we break down (and hate on) the 90s kid classic, Jingle All The Way! We discuss the representation of parenting via Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad. We also explore the destructive nature of consumerism. Hope you all don’t mind our ribbing of a modern classic that unfortunately does not hold up in any way.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Dec 7, 2023 • 1h 53min
Fried Green Tomatoes: Identity & Chosen Family
Join us as we discuss the 90s classic: Fried Green Tomatoes! We are once again joined by Rachel Harrison, our close friend and art therapist. We discuss identity through the experiences of the three main characters: Idgie, Ruth, and Evelyn. We also discuss the importance of chosen family and community. Tawanda!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Nov 28, 2023 • 2h 6min
Whiplash: Tough Love vs Abuse
In this episode we are joined by Tessa Marie Hoffman as we break down the 2014 critically acclaimed film, Whiplash. We discuss the “teaching” tactics displayed in the movie and evaluate the differences between preparing students for the realities of a difficult career and narcissistic abuse. We also explore the power dynamics of mentor/student relationships, specifically within the entertainment industry. Find out more about Tessa on IG @tessamariehoffman or at tessamariehoffman.netBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Oct 30, 2023 • 2h 3min
The Shining: Domestic Violence, PTSD, & The Psychology of Kubrick
[CW: This episode contains lengthy discussions throughout about domestic violence] Happy Halloween! We are finally taking the windy mountain road to the Overlook Hotel to discuss The Shining! We are joined by Dr. Scott Jordon (aka Zombie Scotty)! We ask the question, would seeing ghosts give you PTSD? We have a very serious discussion about the domestic violence shown in the relationship of Jack and Wendy as well as its impact on their son, Danny. We also touch on the variety of ways that Kubrick uses aspects of filmmaking to provoke a psychological response within us. Join us! But don't go into room 237!!Where you can find Dr. Scott:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN5ddGv-AuqOj7iwdBxt_eQtwitter.com/Dark_LoopsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

8 snips
Oct 16, 2023 • 1h 31min
The Addams Family: Psychopathy and Enmeshment
Benjamin Taitz, an expert on The Addams Family, joins us to delve into the psychopathy of the characters and the enmeshed relationship between Fester and Ms. Craven. We explore the complexities of diagnosing within a close-knit yet criminal-praising family. The motivations for criminal behavior and the power dynamics in the mother-son relationship are also analyzed. The podcast praises the film for its warm portrayal of unconventional relationships and ends with discussions on favorite films and speculations about Batman joining the Addams Family.

Sep 24, 2023 • 50min
Special Live Episode from FanExpo Chicago 2023
Enjoy this live episode from Fan Expo Chicago 2023! Ben and Brittney chat with a live audience about a variety of topics from the portrayal of therapists in film/tv to surprising places that we have found positive mental health messaging. We touch upon several different pieces of media, from Ted Lasso to Bluey to the MCU. Thank you to everyone who attended live and asked such thoughtful questions!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

Sep 11, 2023 • 1h 48min
Inception with Dr. Isaac Taitz: Consciousness, Dreaming, & Shame
Dr. Isaac Taitz, President of All Mind Health, specializes in therapeutic dreamwork and trauma resolution. He delves into the rich themes of 'Inception,' exploring how dreams shape reality and our emotional landscapes. Their discussion navigates the complexities of grief intertwined with shame and the ethics of hypnosis in therapy. Taitz emphasizes the importance of client autonomy in therapeutic settings and shares insights on how dreams can aid in processing trauma, fostering self-acceptance and personal growth.

Aug 28, 2023 • 1h 49min
Wakanda Forever: Layers of Grief
Explore the portrayal of grief in 'Black Panther' following Chadwick Boseman's death. Discover the importance of confronting emotions, anticipating and coping with grief. Delve into the power of anger as an emotion and the complexities of identity and loyalty. Explore the healing process and the connection between the brain and body in processing grief. Experience the deep emotional impact of the movie and its themes of personal growth and acceptance.