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 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!
6 snips
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.
26 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 25min
Freakier Friday And What's Making Us Happy
In this engaging discussion, guest Candice Lim, co-host of Slate's Icy YMI and former producer, dives into the nostalgia of 'Freaky Friday' and its sequel, 'Freakier Friday.' She shares insights on the film's humor, family dynamics, and the emotional connection it fosters across generations. The conversation blends reflections on solo female travel and how it empowers women, alongside uplifting music recommendations that bring joy. Lim's thoughts on reality shows highlight the complexities of relationships, making this a delightful listen!
Aug 7, 2025 • 29min
Y2K Pop Culture
DJ Louis XIV, host of Pop Pantheon, and culture writer Margaret H. Wilson dive into the essence of Y2K pop culture. They debate the most iconic artifacts of the era, reminiscing about the impact of 'Spice World' and the Spice Girls on teenage culture. The conversation flows through Britney Spears’ iconic hits and Janet Jackson’s emotional resonance, highlighting the importance of digital connections and the playful yet profound nostalgia of the early 2000s. They explore how these cultural touchstones shaped identity and continue to influence today's music.
14 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 16min
Together
Dive into the unsettling realm of a horror film that explores the complex dynamics of love and relationship rituals. The conversation reveals how intimacy can morph through supernatural experiences, with captivating performances from real-life couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco. Hear insights on body horror intertwined with comedy and the emotional impact of sound design. The hosts also reflect on the film’s unique take on merging identities and the underlying trauma that often accompanies love.
Aug 5, 2025 • 15min
Wednesday
Ella Saron, a talented writer and author of 'Viva Lola Espinosa', dives into the cultural phenomenon that is 'Wednesday'. She explores Jenna Ortega's standout performance and the show's unique blend of dark humor and supernatural themes at Nevermore Academy. They discuss Tim Burton's vision, Latino representation, and the evolving character dynamics compared to the original films. Saron reflects on her journey from skepticism to admiration, revealing how the series transforms familiar characters into deeper, more relatable figures.
28 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 24min
The Naked Gun And What's Making Us Happy
Liam Neeson dives into the absurdity of the new Naked Gun film, bringing a fresh take to Frank Drebin Jr. The discussion highlights nostalgic callbacks and the evolution of comedy, with a nod to Pamela Anderson's performance. The hosts also explore how comedy can subvert expectations, emphasizing the importance of diversity in roles. Additionally, they share joyful memories tied to music and gaming, specifically spotlighting the fun mechanics of Donkey Kong Bonanza. Lastly, they recommend some favorite moments from the week.
Jul 31, 2025 • 20min
The Hunting Wives
Catherine Van Arendonk, a critic for Vulture and New York Magazine, dives into the enticing chaos of Netflix's The Hunting Wives. She discusses how the series turns suburban life on its head with a tantalizing blend of murder, sexuality, and humor. The exploration of queerness through character Margot lends depth to themes of self-discovery. Bold storytelling choices, including shocking yet meaningful scenes, redefine modern television narratives. Van Arendonk also praises the dynamic performances, particularly by Malin Åkerman, that elevate this soapy escapade.
Jul 30, 2025 • 15min
Happy Gilmore 2
Nearly 30 years later, the sequel takes Happy Gilmore from golf elite to struggling father, blending nostalgia with fresh celebrity cameos. While some fans cherish the callbacks, others feel the film leans too heavily on serious themes, straying from the lighthearted charm of its predecessor. The impact on golf culture and the comedic pacing also spark lively debate. Tune in for a critical look at how the sequel balances fan service against new twists!
