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 28, 2025 • 22min
Halloween Songs
Hazel Sills, NPR Music Editor, shares her insights on expanding the Halloween music canon. They discuss the spine-tingling atmosphere of songs like Phoebe Bridgers' 'Killer' and Fever Ray's 'If I Had a Heart.' The conversation dives into nostalgic hits like the Goosebumps theme and Halloween classics, examining how commercial pressures can overshadow niche artists. New releases, such as Lady Gaga's collaboration with Tim Burton and Ethel Cain's haunting tunes, surface as fresh additions to this eerie playlist.
Oct 27, 2025 • 20min
Blue Moon
Bob Mondello, NPR's film critic, joins to dissect the poignant new film, Blue Moon, featuring Ethan Hawke as tormented songwriter Lorenz Hart. They delve into Hart's struggles during the opening of Oklahoma! and the heartbreak of his creative partnership with Richard Rodgers. Mondello praises the film’s intertwining of musical comedy traditions and Hart's portrayal of loneliness. The discussion also touches on the film's emotional depth, historical accuracy, and thoughtful handling of Hart's complex sexuality. A must-listen for theater enthusiasts!
Oct 24, 2025 • 24min
Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere And What’s Making Us Happy
Chris Klimek, a writer and self-proclaimed Springsteen enthusiast, dives into the film 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.' He shares insights on Jeremy Allen White's portrayal of Bruce Springsteen during the pivotal Nebraska era. The conversation highlights the film’s focus on artistic integrity amidst personal turmoil. Klimek discusses how the film captures mental health themes, the authenticity of White’s performance, and its resonance with both music lovers and newcomers. The panel ultimately praises the film’s unique take on the biopic genre.
4 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 18min
Nobody Wants This
Sarah Ventry, an NPR religion and spirituality producer, joins to dive into the intricacies of faith and romance in the Netflix series Nobody Wants This. They explore the dynamic between an agnostic podcaster and a rabbi as they navigate love and religious hurdles. Sarah critiques the show's portrayal of conversion and Jewish practices while discussing its attempt to handle faith seriously amidst rom-com elements. The conversation raises questions about morality, community, and the limits of romantic love in the context of belief.
Oct 22, 2025 • 23min
The Reality TV Show I'd Like To Judge
The hosts dive into the intriguing world of competitive reality shows and play judge! Discussions include why judging American Idol could steer singers towards emotional depth, and the artistry versus commercialism debate in music competitions. They explore the unique merits of Top Chef, where culinary skills ignite passion, and the fun simplicity of Chopped-style challenges. Plus, how would judging RuPaul’s Drag Race look from an audience perspective? It’s a playful take on the power dynamics of judging in reality TV.
8 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 16min
Good Fortune
Join the hosts as they explore the quirky premise of a doofy guardian angel meddling in the life of a gig worker. They rave about Keanu Reeves' hilarious performance, discuss Aziz Ansari's directing debut, and the surprising depth of its commentary on wealth inequality. Expect laughs as they analyze the comedy, romance, and the strong chemistry between Seth Rogen and Reeves. Listen in as they tackle themes of labor, unions, and the film's honest look at money solving problems, all while balancing humor with an important message.
Oct 17, 2025 • 19min
Black Phone 2 And What’s Making Us Happy
In this discussion, Jordan Cruciola, a writer, producer, and host of the podcast Feeling Seen, dives into the chilling aspects of Black Phone 2, where Ethan Hawke's Grabber returns to haunt survivors Finn and Gwen. The conversation touches on the film's atmospheric shift from claustrophobia to a snowy camp setting, and how it draws influences from classic horror like Nightmare on Elm Street. Jordan articulates why he finds the sequel superior, praising its character dynamics and eerie performances, while also offering clever recommendations for listeners.
Oct 15, 2025 • 18min
Roofman
The film features Channing Tatum as a military vet who robs fast food joints from the rooftops. His escape into a Toys 'R' Us creates suspense and humor. Tatum and Kirsten Dunst's chemistry is praised, elevating the light tone of the movie. The discussion explores themes of sympathy for criminals and missed opportunities to address deeper societal issues. With a critique of character development, especially Dunst's role, the hosts share their enjoyment and the ethical dilemmas that linger after watching.
Oct 14, 2025 • 18min
After the Hunt
In a gripping exploration of moral ambiguity, Julia Roberts plays a professor caught in a web of allegations when a student accuses a colleague of assault. The hosts debate the film's approach to truth and victimhood, examining characters' hidden motivations and pressures. Julia Roberts's performance sparks discussion on whether the film makes a statement on cancel culture. Comparisons to other works highlight both strengths and shortcomings in storytelling and direction. Listeners are invited to share their thoughts on the film's challenging themes.
Oct 13, 2025 • 22min
Kiss of the Spider Woman
Christina Escobar, an entertainment journalist and co-founder of Latinamedio.co, dives into the vibrant world of 'Kiss of the Spider Woman,' highlighting its groundbreaking all-Latin cast. She shares her mixed feelings about the film’s tonal shifts, balancing prison realism with dazzling musical fantasy. The discussion touches on the film’s emotional depth and nuanced performances, particularly by Tonatiuh, while critiquing the lackluster musical numbers. Christina emphasizes the film's representation of Latinx stories and its portrayal of love as a form of resistance.
