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
Aug 27, 2025 • 10min
Songs For When Your Flight Is Delayed
Stuck at the airport due to a flight delay? Fear not! This discussion dives into a playlist designed to soothe your travel woes. Explore calming tracks like Brian Eno's atmospheric 'Music for Airports' and Laraji's tranquil melodies that help create a serene environment. Additionally, the nostalgic vibes of the 90s remind us of the connection in chaotic spaces. And don't miss the empowering anthem 'Hair of the Dog' by Nazareth, perfect for boosting spirits during travel mishaps. It's a perfect blend of music and travel comfort!
5 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 17min
Watch This: Long Story Short
Christina Escobar, an entertainment journalist and co-founder/editor-in-chief of Latinamedio.co, joins the conversation to explore the animated Netflix series 'Long Story Short.' They discuss the show’s unique portrayal of a Jewish family navigating different life phases, humorously tackling universal issues like relationships and loss. Christina highlights its innovative animation and depth in family dynamics, while the hosts dive into its rich storytelling that balances comedy with poignant character moments, showcasing the importance of heritage and personal identity.
15 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 24min
Lurker And What's Making Us Happy
Dive into the complexities of fame and friendship through the intense relationship depicted in the film 'Lurker.' Explore the emotional strain and power dynamics between a retail clerk and a rising musician. The discussion also highlights the fascinating world of parasocial relationships in cinema. Lighthearted reflections bring joy through personal experiences and cultural references. Plus, discover a haunting album by Gordy and a whimsical game that lets you run your own bookshop!
14 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 19min
Best John Grisham Adaptations, Ranked
The latest discussion dives into the top five adaptations of John Grisham's thrilling novels, ranking films like The Firm and A Time to Kill. The hosts analyze standout performances from stars like Susan Sarandon and Tom Cruise, focusing on themes of justice and morality. They highlight the intriguing narrative depth in The Pelican Brief, praising its gripping plot. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorites, sparking an engaging conversation about Grisham's impact on cinematic storytelling.
Aug 19, 2025 • 23min
Our 15th Anniversary Time Capsule
Join the hosts as they celebrate 15 years of pop culture insights with a nostalgic dive into their early hot takes. They reminisce about the evolution of horror preferences and changing perceptions of iconic stars like Jack Black and Beyoncé. The emotional impact of childhood costumes is dissected, contrasting homemade delights with store-bought convenience. Listeners are encouraged to share their own costume memories, while the hosts reflect on their journey and share hopes for the future.
Aug 18, 2025 • 21min
Highest 2 Lowest
Spike Lee's new crime thriller reunites him with Denzel Washington, exploring themes of responsibility and power in a gripping kidnapping narrative. The filmmakers discuss reinventing classics and the artistic risks involved. The musical score contrasts urban life with orchestral influences, reflecting on hip-hop culture. The dialogue touches on wealth, identity, and the portrayal of New York, while examining the dynamics of class and race, highlighting crucial societal critiques woven into the story.
18 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 26min
Alien: Earth And What's Making Us Happy
Joelle Monique, a filmmaker and pop culture critic, teams up with writer Chris Klimek to dive into the new spinoff, Alien: Earth. They explore complex character dynamics, blending horror with childhood nostalgia. Discussions touch on the portrayal of women and children, and the ethical questions surrounding artificial consciousness. Their insights on power dynamics in contemporary media, alongside a nod to humor in award shows, add depth to a rich conversation about the intersections of joy and horror in the franchise.
Aug 14, 2025 • 18min
Bring It On
Dive into the cultural impact of the cheerleading classic as it turns 25! The discussion highlights its unforgettable quotes and memorable moments. Explore themes like competition and cultural appropriation while comparing it to teen staples like Mean Girls. Get insights into character dynamics and how the film’s messages about equity still resonate today. The blend of humor and nostalgia is dissected, along with the evolution of music formats as a metaphor for character connections. It's a fun reflection on a film that sparked conversations beyond cheerleading!
Aug 12, 2025 • 17min
Platonic
Joining the conversation is Ronald Young Jr., host of the film and television review podcast Leaving the Theater. He dives into the comedy series Platonic, starring Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, discussing how it navigates midlife crises and the nuances of rekindling friendships. The talk highlights the challenges of male-female dynamics and the show’s unique humor. They also touch on the importance of diverse voices in storytelling, impacting narratives around body diversity and emotional intimacy. Exciting insights on upcoming projects and audience engagement wrap things up!
Aug 11, 2025 • 20min
Weapons
Jordan Cruciola, a writer and producer who hosts the podcast Feeling Seen, dives into the chilling narrative of the film Weapons. She discusses the eerie disappearance of 17 third-graders and the community’s reaction, focusing on the scrutiny faced by a teacher. The conversation explores how modern horror films, like this one, blend humor with suspense, paving the way for innovative storytelling. Cruciola also reflects on themes of trauma and isolation, linking the film's dark narrative to real-world issues in a thought-provoking manner.
