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
Oct 13, 2025 • 22min
Kiss of the Spider Woman
Christina Escobar, an entertainment journalist and co-founder of Latinamedio.co, dives into the vibrant world of 'Kiss of the Spider Woman,' highlighting its groundbreaking all-Latin cast. She shares her mixed feelings about the film’s tonal shifts, balancing prison realism with dazzling musical fantasy. The discussion touches on the film’s emotional depth and nuanced performances, particularly by Tonatiuh, while critiquing the lackluster musical numbers. Christina emphasizes the film's representation of Latinx stories and its portrayal of love as a form of resistance.
12 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 23min
TRON: Ares And What's Making Us Happy
In this engaging conversation, Jordan Cruciola, a writer and producer known for his podcast Feeling Seen, and Candice Lim, co-host of Slate's ICYMI, dive into TRON: Ares. They explore its ambitious premise of AI entering our world and debate Jared Leto's performance, which Jordan finds lacking. The duo discusses nostalgia versus innovation, questioning the film's appeal and emotional depth. Candice highlights its uneven cultural reception and recommends The Wrong Paris, while Jordan excitedly shares insights on Taylor Swift's latest album.
9 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 20min
Most Overused Songs In Movies
Some songs are so overused in films that they’ve become tired clichés. The hosts discuss rock anthems like "Thunderstruck" and propose fresh alternatives like Andrew W.K. They highlight how "Feeling Good" diminishes Nina Simone's impact, suggesting underused artists like Jimmy Scott. The discussion even critiques the over-saturation of hits from the '90s, recommending The Spinanes instead. With a humorous take on 60s soundtrack tropes, they argue it's time to retire some classics and embrace new voices.
Oct 7, 2025 • 16min
The Lost Bus
The film, inspired by the 2018 Camp Fire, follows a bus driver and a teacher rescuing kids from a wildfire. The hosts discuss the impressive pacing and sound design, while also questioning character development. Viewers are encouraged to use headphones for a more immersive experience. The tension between real-life tragedy and fictional narration sparks debate, with emotional impacts noted for fire survivors. Overall, the film's authenticity and strong performances make it a compelling watch.
Oct 6, 2025 • 23min
Taylor Swift The Life Of A Showgirl
Anne Powers, NPR music critic, dives into the vibrant world of Taylor Swift's new album, exploring its playful tracks and heartfelt themes. They discuss how the album reflects Taylor's relationship with Travis Kelce, weaving humor and nostalgia throughout. Anne highlights standout songs like 'Eldest Daughter' and 'Ruin the Friendship,' emphasizing the emotional weight and lyrical callbacks. The conversation also touches on Taylor's showgirl persona and the album's shift from somber tones to joyous anthems, showcasing her artistic evolution.
Oct 3, 2025 • 24min
The Smashing Machine And What's Making Us Happy
Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt lead a gripping biopic about UFC champion Mark Kerr, tackling themes of addiction and redemption. The panel debates whether the film serves as a serious transformation for The Rock or as an industry ploy for awards recognition. They delve into the film's intense IMAX experience and critique its emotional depth. Cultural representation and the portrayal of early MMA also spark discussion. To lighten the mood, hosts share what's making them happy, from thrilling films to the latest music and gaming obsessions.
Oct 2, 2025 • 27min
Brokeback Mountain
This discussion features Bob Mondello, a seasoned NPR film critic; Jarrett Hill, co-author of Historically Black Phrases; and Rihanna Cruz, a music and culture journalist. They explore the complex legacy of Brokeback Mountain two decades after its release. The panel delves into the film's emotional impact, cultural reception, and the nuances of its characters' identities. They debate how the film challenged narratives around queer representation and discuss the role of societal pressures in shaping the story. Their insights reveal the film's lasting significance in cinema.
20 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 20min
The Lowdown
Ethan Hawke shines as a scruffy investigative reporter in a colorful, gritty modern-day Western. The show masterfully blends humor with a noir feel, drawing comparisons to McMurtry and the Coen brothers. It explores Lee's complicated relationship with his daughter Frances, highlighting his quirks and vulnerabilities. The impressive ensemble cast, including Kyle MacLachlan and Keith David, brings the Tulsa setting to life. The podcast discusses the show's unique tone and writing, emphasizing its blend of oddity and grit that keeps audiences engaged.
Sep 29, 2025 • 20min
Wayward
Dive into the haunting world of a new Netflix series featuring Toni Collette as a sinister figure running a troubled teen facility. A police officer uncovers unsettling truths in a seemingly idyllic town. The podcast explores eerie small-town narratives and the show's chilling portrayal of the troubled teen industry. Insights into character dynamics, including a timid trans character, add depth. The discussion highlights standout performances and the eerie atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged while pondering unresolved mysteries.
11 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 24min
One Battle After Another And What's Making Us Happy
Monica Castillo, a freelance film critic and programmer, dives into the action-thriller 'One Battle After Another.' She shares insights on Leonardo DiCaprio's role as a washed-up revolutionary and discusses Sean Penn's portrayal of a racist antagonist. Monica highlights the film's sharp visual style and urgent pacing, particularly praising a riveting IMAX car chase. The conversation also explores themes of activist fatigue and the complexities of revolutionary leadership, alongside lighter moments about their current happy finds, including Bad Bunny's livestream.
