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
Sep 16, 2025 • 24min
The Summer I Turned Pretty
Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento, an NPR Music reporter and passionate Team Conrad supporter, and Candice Lim, co-host of Slate's Icy YMI podcast and Team Connie Baby fan, dive into the thrilling love triangle of The Summer I Turned Pretty. They discuss main character Belly's complex journey through romance and self-discovery while analyzing the show's adaptation and pacing. A debate arises over the compelling yet sometimes overwhelming music selection, showcasing how the series balances drama with an accessible charm that resonates with fans.
12 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 25min
2025 Emmys Recap
The 2025 Emmy Awards delivered unexpected wins for shows like 'Adolescence' and 'The Studio.' Emotional speeches highlighted critical social issues, while a comedian's hosting style drew mixed reviews. Surprises kept the atmosphere lively, but some recurring jokes fell flat. The deep dive into 'Adolescence' revealed its gripping narrative and critical acclaim. Overall, the celebration showcased a blend of standout performances and a nod to the diversity transforming the industry.
11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 18min
The Long Walk And What's Making Us Happy
Rihanna Cruz, a freelance music and culture journalist, joins to dive deep into the intriguing world of dystopian cinema with a focus on The Long Walk. She discusses its gripping narrative and its parallels to Stephen King's themes. The conversation shifts to contrasting opinions on character depth and the effectiveness of the film's emotional resonance. Humorous insights emerge as they explore the absurdities of walking on treadmills, highlighting both the filmmaking challenges and the everyday quirks of life.
6 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 20min
Great Movies With Silly Plots
Dive into the world of movies where silly plots reign supreme! Discover how films like The Martian can blend real science with emotional depth. Laugh along with the absurdity of The Incredible Mr. Limpet, where a timid bookkeeper becomes a talking fish. Explore the charm and nostalgia these films bring, revealing deeper themes hidden within their whimsical narratives. It’s a celebration of unconventional storytelling that keeps us hooked, even when the logic goes out the window!
Sep 9, 2025 • 19min
Watch This: Twinless
Gene Demby, the host of NPR's Code Switch and a twin himself, joins the conversation to discuss the film *Twinless*, featuring Dylan O’Brien and James Sweeney. The film explores the unique bond between two friends grieving their lost twins, blending dark humor and emotional complexity. Demby highlights how the narrative delves into themes of identity, character dynamics, and the often-unseen connections in male friendships. The discussion reveals shocking plot twists and relatable storytelling, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Sep 8, 2025 • 18min
The Paper
Dive into a mockumentary that hilariously captures the struggles of a local newspaper in Toledo, Ohio. The discussion touches on emotional storytelling, inviting listeners to share their own connections. Listen in as hosts navigate the ambitious yet resistant dynamics of a new editor trying to revitalize the paper and critique character interactions, particularly an unlikable character named Esmeralda. The show receives mixed reviews, with comparisons to comedic giants, showcasing both potential and challenges in humor and character development.
4 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 22min
The Conjuring: Last Rites And What's Making Us Happy
Ayesha Roscoe, host of Weekend Edition Sunday, and Netta Ulibi, NPR Culture Desk correspondent, dive into the chilling world of 'The Conjuring: Last Rites.' They explore the final confrontation between Ed and Lorraine Warren and the haunted mirror threatening a family. The duo discusses the franchise's cultural impact, the shifts in horror storytelling, and how the Warrens reflect societal anxieties. They also share personal connections to animated nostalgia and celebrate local talent through captivating music.
Sep 4, 2025 • 24min
Sabrina Carpenter Man’s Best Friend
Joining the conversation is Anne Powers, an NPR music critic and correspondent celebrated for her insights on women in pop and country music. The discussion dives into Sabrina Carpenter's album 'Man's Best Friend', showcasing its playful yet poignant themes of femininity and modern dating. They explore the 80s pop and R&B influences that shape the sound, the bold lyricism of singles like 'Tears', and the provocative discussions surrounding women's voices in pop culture. Carpenter's humor and self-awareness shine through as they dissect her artistic evolution.
Sep 3, 2025 • 20min
The Thursday Murder Club
Dive into the charming world of a British mystery set in a retirement community, where retirees solve cold cases. The discussion highlights the film's star-studded cast and its cozy yet complex take on aging and community. Explore the challenges of adapting beloved books to screen, with insights on emotional depth and character relationships. Delight in the balance of humor and critique as the hosts navigate the film's entertaining atmosphere versus its more sentimental elements.
Sep 2, 2025 • 16min
Caught Stealing
The hosts dive into 'Caught Stealing,' where a cat-sitting gig spirals into a chaotic encounter with the criminal underworld. They dissect the film's direction and themes of mistaken identity, along with the strengths and weaknesses of performances from stars like Austin Butler and Zoë Kravitz. Discussions touch on cliches and storytelling disappointments in star-studded films, as well as the authenticity of 90s New York portrayal. Emotional manipulation and tonal shifts are critiqued, highlighting the challenges of character representation.
