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 30, 2024 • 25min
Industry
The latest season of a gripping drama dives into backstabbing and morally shady investment bankers. Relationships become tangled as ambition drives characters into fierce rivalries. Dark secrets and personal vices emerge, adding tension throughout. The exploration of class differences in romantic entanglements reveals emotional complexities. With comparisons to shows like 'Succession,' themes of identity and ambition take center stage. A reflection on character evolution hints at turbulent times ahead as younger forces emerge.
Sep 27, 2024 • 26min
Megalopolis And What's Making Us Happy
Dive into the ambitious and chaotic world of Francis Ford Coppola's new film, which reimagines the fall of Rome in a futuristic American city. Discover the controversies and conflicts that shaped its tumultuous production. The hosts also share what brings them happiness, from mental health through cooking to the quirky significance of Hollywood milestones. Plus, hear about a comedic series that tackles fear of flying with humor and heart. It's a lively mix of cinematic exploration and joyful reflections!
Sep 26, 2024 • 21min
His Three Daughters
Elizabeth Olsen, Carrie Coon, and Natasha Lyonne, talented actresses known for their diverse roles, delve into the emotional complexities of their new Netflix film, exploring the tumultuous relationships of three sisters reuniting in their father's last moments. They discuss how grief can test sibling bonds, revealing unresolved tensions and the impact of caregiving. Through examining family dynamics, they highlight the potential for personal growth amid sorrow and the intricate messiness of navigating familial ties.
Sep 24, 2024 • 17min
Colin From Accounts
Harriet Dyer, an actress known for her charm in romantic comedies, and Patrick Brammall, recognized for his comedic roles, dive into their quirky series Colin From Accounts. They discuss the hilarious relationship that develops between two strangers after a fateful encounter with a dog. The conversation touches on the show's unique blend of humor and genuine emotional depth. Insights into the Australian comedic style versus American norms add an intriguing layer, while they explore the lovable flaws of their characters and the adventure of shared responsibility.
Sep 23, 2024 • 18min
The Substance
Dive into the bloody, campy world of body horror with a fierce feminist twist. A middle-aged aerobics instructor finds herself grappling with a mysterious drug that creates a younger version of herself. The film takes a sharp look at aging, beauty standards, and relationships among women in Hollywood. Expect audacious storytelling filled with dark humor, as themes of self-hatred and societal expectations come to the forefront. Standout performances and practical effects further enhance this unique cinematic experience.
Sep 20, 2024 • 18min
Transformers One And What's Making Us Happy
Chris Hemsworth, famously known as Thor, joins Brian Tyree Henry, acclaimed for his versatile roles, to discuss the animated film Transformers One. They delve into the captivating origin stories of Optimus Prime and Megatron, sharing emotional insights from screenings filled with families. The duo reflects on the film’s engaging narrative and its potential to explore peaceful themes in the Transformers universe. They also share personal sources of happiness, including the intriguing Netflix series The Perfect Couple and the powerful narratives found in anime like Attack on Titan.
Sep 19, 2024 • 19min
My Old Ass
Aubrey Plaza, known for her unique comedic flair, joins Maisy Stella, a rising star in film and television. They discuss the delightful film 'My Old Ass,' where a teenager meets her older self during a psychedelic experience. The conversation dives into themes of self-discovery and the complexities of adolescence, touching on identity and emotional depth. Plaza and Stella reflect on authenticity in coming-of-age narratives, explore idealized love, and share insights into the humor that enriches the film's storytelling.
Sep 18, 2024 • 28min
Fall Guide
As fall begins, a thrilling array of movies, TV shows, and music are on the horizon. The hosts dig into intriguing Batman adaptations, spotlighting HBO's 'The Penguin' and Netflix's 'A Man on the Inside.' They also highlight poignant films from TIFF, like Almodovar's 'The Room Next Door,' which explores deep emotional themes. The discussion shifts to the haunting sounds of Mount Eerie's 'Night Palace,' addressing grief and loss, while suggesting music for every occasion. It's a perfect guide to pre-winter entertainment!
Sep 16, 2024 • 16min
2024 Emmys Recap
The 2024 Emmy Awards celebrated big winners like Hacks, The Bear, Shōgun, and Baby Reindeer, sparking nostalgia for beloved shows. Unexpected comedy results, particularly Hacks' victory as Outstanding Comedy Series, added excitement. The hosts reviewed the unique hosting style of Dan and Eugene Levy, sharing their thoughts on the show's overall quality. Acceptance speeches were heartfelt, highlighting memorable moments that captured genuine emotions. Join in on the reflections and surprises from a night that showcased the best of television.
Sep 13, 2024 • 22min
Speak No Evil And What's Making Us Happy
Joining the discussion is James McAvoy, acclaimed star of the horror thriller 'Speak No Evil.' The conversation dives into the eerie dynamics of the film, where an American couple visits a strange British family. What unfolds is a chilling exploration of cultural differences and survival. The panel also reflects on the surprising mix of humor and horror in the narrative, while analyzing themes of masculinity and vulnerability. Plus, personal moments of joy are shared, including highlights from recent films and TV experiences that resonate with the speakers.
