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 11, 2024 • 16min
Rebel Ridge
In Netflix's new film Rebel Ridge, Aaron Pierre plays Terry, a young Black man who enters a small Southern town to post bail for his cousin. But when the local cops seize his money, he faces off against the corrupt chief of police (Don Johnson). Things escalate, and soon he uncovers a sinister conspiracy that threatens his life.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Sep 10, 2024 • 14min
The Front Room
Brandy Norwood, known for her roles in music and acting, discusses her latest film where she plays a pregnant woman navigating the challenges of having her mother-in-law, played by Kathryn Hunter, move in. They delve into the darkly comedic dynamics of familial relationships, exploring themes of control and conflict. The conversation also highlights the unique blend of horror and humor within the film, presenting a fresh take on traditional scary movie elements. Audiences are left intrigued by the complexities of their characters and the film's approach to storytelling.
Sep 9, 2024 • 14min
The Perfect Couple
Dive into a thrilling wedding gone wrong in a high-society setting where a mysterious murder unfolds. The podcast dabbles in a lighthearted take on the murder mystery genre, blending humor with rich character dynamics reminiscent of 'Big Little Lies.' Insights are shared on clever plotting and clue deduction, highlighting the tension between serious discussions and comedic moments. Listeners are invited to unravel secrets alongside the characters, creating an engaging narrative experience rich with twists and turns.
Sep 6, 2024 • 21min
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice And What's Making Us Happy
The discussion dives into the return of Beetlejuice, highlighting Lydia's evolution into a television psychic and Jenna Ortega's exciting new role. The speakers have mixed feelings about the sequel, praising Catherine O'Hara's performance while critiquing its pacing. They reflect on the delicate balance between nostalgia and originality in beloved classics. Personal highlights include a touching episode on friendship breakups and the joy of retro media, with nods to 'Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood' and the game 'Beyond Good and Evil.'
5 snips
Sep 5, 2024 • 11min
Songs To Boost Your Confidence
Maybe you're going up for a promotion, or just got out of a bad relationship. Whatever it is, your mood needs a boost. Today, we're recommending three songs that make for great motivators and pick-me-ups when you need them most.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Sep 3, 2024 • 19min
Kaos
Jeff Goldblum, a celebrated actor known for his roles in iconic films, and Janet McTeer, an esteemed actress acclaimed for her powerful performances, dive into the Netflix series Kaos. They explore the reimagined dynamics of Greek mythology with a vulnerable Zeus and a compelling cast of characters. The conversation touches on character depth, critiques of storytelling, and the representation of queerness within ancient myths. With humor and insight, they discuss the balance between dark themes and comedic elements, revealing the intricacies of modern adaptations.
Sep 2, 2024 • 34min
Reality TV, Romance, And Race
Reality TV often mirrors society's views, especially through dating shows like The Bachelor and Love Island. The discussion highlights milestones in diversity, including the first Black lead and challenges of tokenism. Insights from casting directors reveal the complexities of representation and the emotional impact on contestants, particularly women of color. The conversation also critiques the industry's biases and calls for more authentic storytelling, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives in reflecting real-life experiences.
Aug 30, 2024 • 22min
Afraid And What's Making Us Happy
The discussion dives into 'Afraid,' a film that explores eerie family interactions with advanced AI, drawing comparisons to classics like '2001: A Space Odyssey.' The hosts provide a thoughtful critique of the AI horror genre, touching on themes of consumerism and parental anxieties. A humorous segment reveals their recent joyful finds, including the innovative series 'Mrs. Davis' and the competitive card game 'Cockroach Poker.' They also share insights from a vacation, analyzing the intriguing documentary 'Disaster Autopsy' and its exploration of catastrophe.
Aug 29, 2024 • 16min
The Crow
Bill Skarsgård, known for his work in horror films, stars in the new adaptation of The Crow, along with the mesmerizing FKA twigs. They discuss the film's unique approach to themes of vengeance and love, setting it apart from the iconic 1994 classic. The conversation dives into the use of supernatural elements and the portrayal of goth culture, examining how these factors shape character development. They also critique the narrative's depth, commenting on its moral complexities and the impact of violence on storytelling.
Aug 28, 2024 • 18min
Sabrina Carpenter's Album Short N' Sweet
Sabrina Carpenter, a talented singer-songwriter known for her catchy hits, discusses her vibrant new album, Short N' Sweet. She reflects on the balance of humor and heart in her music, sharing insights into her songwriting and personal narratives. The conversation delves into the impact of TikTok on the music scene, showcasing how it amplifies artists like her. Carpenter's latest work marks a refreshing shift in pop, emphasizing fun over heavier themes, and hints at her artistic evolution on the horizon.
