Pop Culture Happy Hour
NPR
Get obsessed with us. Four days a week, Pop Culture Happy Hour serves you recommendations and commentary on the buzziest movies, TV, music, books, videogames and more. Join arts journalists Linda Holmes, Glen Weldon, Stephen Thompson, and Aisha Harris - plus a rotating cast of guest pop culture aficionados. The Happy Hour team leaves room at the table for exploring a range of reactions and opinions on every bit of the pop universe. From lowbrow to highbrow to the stuff in between, they take it all with a shot of cheer.Make your happy hour even happier with Pop Culture Happy Hour Plus! Your subscription supports the podcast and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/happyhour
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 7, 2025 • 16min
The Lost Bus
The film, inspired by the 2018 Camp Fire, follows a bus driver and a teacher rescuing kids from a wildfire. The hosts discuss the impressive pacing and sound design, while also questioning character development. Viewers are encouraged to use headphones for a more immersive experience. The tension between real-life tragedy and fictional narration sparks debate, with emotional impacts noted for fire survivors. Overall, the film's authenticity and strong performances make it a compelling watch.
Oct 6, 2025 • 23min
Taylor Swift The Life Of A Showgirl
Anne Powers, NPR music critic, dives into the vibrant world of Taylor Swift's new album, exploring its playful tracks and heartfelt themes. They discuss how the album reflects Taylor's relationship with Travis Kelce, weaving humor and nostalgia throughout. Anne highlights standout songs like 'Eldest Daughter' and 'Ruin the Friendship,' emphasizing the emotional weight and lyrical callbacks. The conversation also touches on Taylor's showgirl persona and the album's shift from somber tones to joyous anthems, showcasing her artistic evolution.
Oct 3, 2025 • 24min
The Smashing Machine And What's Making Us Happy
Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt lead a gripping biopic about UFC champion Mark Kerr, tackling themes of addiction and redemption. The panel debates whether the film serves as a serious transformation for The Rock or as an industry ploy for awards recognition. They delve into the film's intense IMAX experience and critique its emotional depth. Cultural representation and the portrayal of early MMA also spark discussion. To lighten the mood, hosts share what's making them happy, from thrilling films to the latest music and gaming obsessions.
Oct 2, 2025 • 27min
Brokeback Mountain
This discussion features Bob Mondello, a seasoned NPR film critic; Jarrett Hill, co-author of Historically Black Phrases; and Rihanna Cruz, a music and culture journalist. They explore the complex legacy of Brokeback Mountain two decades after its release. The panel delves into the film's emotional impact, cultural reception, and the nuances of its characters' identities. They debate how the film challenged narratives around queer representation and discuss the role of societal pressures in shaping the story. Their insights reveal the film's lasting significance in cinema.
10 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 20min
The Lowdown
Ethan Hawke shines as a scruffy investigative reporter in a colorful, gritty modern-day Western. The show masterfully blends humor with a noir feel, drawing comparisons to McMurtry and the Coen brothers. It explores Lee's complicated relationship with his daughter Frances, highlighting his quirks and vulnerabilities. The impressive ensemble cast, including Kyle MacLachlan and Keith David, brings the Tulsa setting to life. The podcast discusses the show's unique tone and writing, emphasizing its blend of oddity and grit that keeps audiences engaged.
Sep 29, 2025 • 20min
Wayward
Dive into the haunting world of a new Netflix series featuring Toni Collette as a sinister figure running a troubled teen facility. A police officer uncovers unsettling truths in a seemingly idyllic town. The podcast explores eerie small-town narratives and the show's chilling portrayal of the troubled teen industry. Insights into character dynamics, including a timid trans character, add depth. The discussion highlights standout performances and the eerie atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged while pondering unresolved mysteries.
Sep 26, 2025 • 24min
One Battle After Another And What's Making Us Happy
Monica Castillo, a freelance film critic and programmer, dives into the action-thriller 'One Battle After Another.' She shares insights on Leonardo DiCaprio's role as a washed-up revolutionary and discusses Sean Penn's portrayal of a racist antagonist. Monica highlights the film's sharp visual style and urgent pacing, particularly praising a riveting IMAX car chase. The conversation also explores themes of activist fatigue and the complexities of revolutionary leadership, alongside lighter moments about their current happy finds, including Bad Bunny's livestream.
Sep 25, 2025 • 19min
Showgirls
Revisiting a notorious flop turned camp classic, the discussion kicks off with its iconic status as Showgirls celebrates its 30th anniversary. The hosts share personal connections to the film's camp appeal and dissect its controversial themes, including a troubling assault scene that shifts the film's tone. They explore Paul Verhoeven’s career and the ongoing debate about the portrayal of sex and violence. The talk also examines the racial dynamics and industry double standards impacting cast and crew, all while defending Elizabeth Berkley’s performance.
Sep 24, 2025 • 20min
Task
Roxana Haddadi, a Vulture TV critic, dives into the HBO series Task, featuring Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey. She discusses the show's gripping cat-and-mouse structure and grounded performances, while praising the emotional depth found in small character moments. Haddadi highlights the strong family dynamics amidst crime and grief, yet critiques the portrayal of female characters, with Maeve standing out as a well-rounded figure. The conversation also touches on Philadelphia's authenticity and the controversial ending that left some feeling unfulfilled.
11 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 17min
Haunted Hotel
Walter Chow, a talented writer and film instructor at the University of Colorado, dives into the eerie yet comedic world of Haunted Hotel. He discusses the show's unique blend of fun and creepiness, highlighted by Will Forte's role as a ghostly hotel manager. Chow shares insights on the series' impressive worldbuilding and how it navigates serious themes like identity and suicide. He also praises the cast's chemistry and comedic timing, noting influences from Rick and Morty. It's a captivating commentary on a new animated classic!
