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
14 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 26min
Our 2025 Oscars Recap
The Oscars shone bright this year, highlighting Sean Baker's Anora with wins for Best Picture and Director. Mikey Madison surprised everyone by clinching Best Actress. Hosts engage in hilarious commentary on Conan O'Brien’s hosting antics and the often lengthy acceptance speeches. They dive into memorable nods, including Lil Crawley's cinematography and Daniel Bloomberg's score. The mix of laughter and reflections spotlights the night's triumphs and missteps, offering a lively retrospective on the awards season.
28 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 52min
2025 Oscars Guide And What's Making Us Happy
This discussion dives into fierce Oscar contenders like 'Wicked' and 'Emilia Perez,' with bold predictions on who’ll snag the coveted awards. There's an exploration of standout performances, particularly in the Lead Actress category and innovative films like the Latvian 'Flow.' The hosts also share their joy over uplifting music and reality shows, including a fun look at 'Deal or No Deal Island.' Expect a mix of passionate analysis and lighthearted banter about cinema's highs and lows!
9 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 20min
Paradise
Ronald Young Jr., host of Pop Culture Debate Club, brings his insights to discuss the Hulu drama Paradise. The conversation dives into Sterling K. Brown's portrayal of a Secret Service agent entangled in a presidential assassination mystery. They explore the show's rich narrative layers, character dynamics, and thought-provoking themes of leadership in crisis. Young Jr. critiques the complexities of dystopian storytelling and highlights the captivating interplay between Brown and James Marsden, questioning how the plot might unfold amidst the intrigue.
7 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 15min
Zero Day
A new Netflix series kicks off with a nationwide blackout, sparking chaos and a government investigation. It features a retired president grappling with the fallout of a cyber attack, exposing themes of paranoia and trust. The show's political critique draws comparisons to earlier dramas, highlighting its vague character portrayals and superficial handling of partisanship. Discussions about narrative pacing reveal frustrations with unresolved plotlines and the challenges of juggling a large cast in thriller storytelling, urging for deeper, more engaging narratives.
Feb 24, 2025 • 23min
Actors Who've Never Been Nominated For An Oscar, But Should Win
Delve into the world of actors who’ve been snubbed by the Oscars despite their undeniable talent. Discover why Pam Grier, John Goodman, Regina Hall, and Oscar Isaac deserve more recognition. The discussion highlights the biases in the film industry, advocating for a broader acknowledgment of diverse talents. Explore Grier's impactful legacy in blaxploitation films and Goodman’s versatility through his comedic roots. It’s a celebration of overlooked brilliance and a call for change in award recognition.
18 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 22min
The Monkey And What's Making Us Happy
In this engaging discussion, Jordan Cruciola, a writer and producer known for her podcast 'Feeling Seen,' offers fresh insights into the horror-comedy film 'The Monkey.' The conversation dives into the film's unique premise of cursed twin brothers and a sinister wind-up monkey. They analyze the interplay of horror and humor, alongside Theo James's performance. Cruciola also reflects on the current trends in horror cinema, comparing recent films like 'Talk To Me' and 'Hereditary,' unveiling the genre's evolving landscape.
7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 17min
Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy
Join Kate Young, podcast producer and film critic, as she dives into the emotional landscape of Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. Explore how Bridget navigates love and loss as a single mother, showcasing her growth and resilience. The conversation highlights the shift from the franchise's light-hearted charm to profound themes of grief and romance. Young examines character dynamics, the importance of friendships, and the authenticity of Bridget's journey, making it a compelling discussion on life's unpredictable transitions.
Feb 18, 2025 • 22min
We Fantasy Cast The Traitors
Dive into the cunning world of a reality show where betrayal is the game! The hosts share their dream celebrity cast for future seasons, mixing humor and nostalgia. Expect lively discussions about the strategic brilliance of unlikely contestants and the charm of Muppet characters alongside famous faces. They explore the dynamics of treachery and gameplay, making for an entertaining blend of comedy and pop culture. Tune in for a fun exploration of who could thrive in a competitive environment infused with laughter and drama!
6 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 18min
Paddington In Peru
Paddington Bear takes center stage in a new adventure set in Peru, where he searches for his Aunt Lucy with the Brown family. The journey is filled with whimsical encounters, including a singing nun and a troubled boat captain. The film explores themes of family, identity, and belonging, while also balancing humor and heartfelt moments. Standout performances from Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas add to the charm, making it a delightful watch for both adults and children. Join the conversation as they prepare for the Oscars!
22 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 26min
Captain America: Brave New World And What's Making Us Happy
Joelle Monique, a talented filmmaker and pop culture critic, joins the conversation to unpack the latest installment of Captain America, featuring Anthony Mackie. They debate the film's handling of complex themes and express disappointment in its narrative and character development. The discussion humorously critiques superhero origin stories and the use of CGI. Monique shares her joy in recent TV and gaming experiences, and they celebrate a charitable Muppet reunion, inviting listeners to join in the Oscars conversation.
