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 8, 2024 • 7min
Three great fiction audiobooks
Dive into the world of captivating fiction audiobooks perfect for summer relaxation. Discover feminist themes in Sarah Kozloff's 'The Nine Realms' series and why it offers a deeper experience. Explore audiobooks showcasing strong female characters and the art of voice narration, including adaptations of vibrant crime stories. Get a taste of the quirky Spelman Files series, blending humor and mystery with engaging performances set against a San Francisco backdrop. Perfect for long trips or cozy days indoors!
Aug 6, 2024 • 24min
Here's why we love the Olympics
Join Simone Biles, a legendary gymnast; Katie Ledecky, a long-distance swimming champ; and sprinter Noah Lyles as they dive into the exhilarating world of the Olympics. They share thrilling insights about Simone's impactful return, the U.S. men's gymnastics team's emotional triumph, and the excitement of the upcoming Paris Games. Discover the unique challenges of covering such a massive event and the unsung sports that deserve recognition. Their passion for the Olympics shines through, making for an inspiring conversation!
Aug 5, 2024 • 17min
Colman Domingo's Sing Sing is a rare empathetic prison drama
Colman Domingo, a talented actor known for leading a theatre ensemble in a maximum-security prison film, shares insights about his latest project, *Sing Sing*. He discusses the power of art to transform lives, highlighting how authentic storytelling was essential in the film's creation. Domingo touches on the unique collaborative spirit between the ensemble and filmmakers, avoiding traditional tropes. With elements of humor and hope, he reveals how the film captures the deep humanity of its characters, offering a fresh perspective on prison life.
Aug 2, 2024 • 25min
Trap and what's making us happy
In this lively discussion, renowned filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan and actor Josh Hartnett dive into the wild world of 'Trap,' a thriller where a father and daughter navigate a chaotic concert under police siege. They humorously critique the film's extravagant plot twists and the peculiar decision-making of its characters. The conversation also touches on the infectious vibes of Stray Kids' 'Chick Chick Boom' and the respectful storytelling found in true crime narratives. Join them for a mix of chaos, comedy, and catchy tunes!
Aug 1, 2024 • 23min
House Of The Dragon season 2 makes it Rhaen(yra)
The conflict within the Targaryen dynasty heats up in the latest season, featuring stealth missions and intense battles. The rivalry between Team Green and Team Black showcases complex family dynamics and deep character motivations. The arcs of Rhaenyra and Daemon unfold strategically, highlighting the emotional depth of pivotal female characters. Additionally, the series shines a light on warrior training for women and the authenticity of characters, raising questions about intentions and relationships amidst the chaos.
Jul 31, 2024 • 22min
Time Bandits maps contemporary vibes over a cult classic
Joining the conversation are Lisa Kudrow, famed for her sharp comedic roles, and Taika Waititi, known for his distinctive storytelling style. They discuss the whimsical adventures in 'Time Bandits', where inept thieves and a British kid navigate through time with a magical map. The nuances of adapting a cult classic come to the forefront, especially regarding character dynamics and emotional depth. Controversies around representation spark engaging debates. They also share their hopes for future seasons, diving into character development and maintaining the show's humor.
Jul 30, 2024 • 27min
We're talking songs of the (Brat) summer
This lively discussion features Charli XCX, a pop powerhouse, Sabrina Carpenter, a multi-talented singer and actress, and Chappell Roan, an exciting new voice in music. They uncover the battle for this summer's ultimate anthem, emphasizing the catchiness that defines the season. The talk explores the blending of pop and country genres with contributions from Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, and Shaboozey. They also touch on music's crucial role in Pride Month celebrations and the intricate strategies behind summer hits, making for an engaging conversation!
Jul 26, 2024 • 24min
Deadpool & Wolverine and what's making us happy
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman chat about a meta Deadpool & Wolverine movie, filled with wisecracks, fan service, and Easter eggs. They discuss the film's humor, plot, and how casual Marvel fans will receive it. Additionally, the hosts recommend 'This is How You Lose the Time War' for its romantic and poetic content.
Jul 25, 2024 • 18min
In The Decameron, the Black Death makes for black comedy
Join Tony Hale and Zosia Mamet as they discuss Netflix's dark comedy The Decameron set during the Black Death. Explore the richly layered characters hiding secrets while navigating the bubonic plague in Florence. Dive into the show's mix of historical accuracy, humor, and modern storytelling, with unexpected plot twists and captivating performances.
Jul 23, 2024 • 10min
Three great karaoke songs
Explore the contrasting experiences with karaoke, tips for choosing the perfect song, distinct singing styles, top karaoke song picks like 'It's All Coming Back to Me Now' and 'Shallow' tailored to different comfort levels.
