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
Jun 20, 2024 • 18min
HBO's Fantasmas is new and different and uniquely itself
Julio Torres, creator and star of HBO's Fantasmas, embarks on a surreal quest for a lost earring in New York City. The series features random encounters with well-known actors in sketch-like vignettes. The show explores themes of art commodification, identity, and societal challenges, while celebrating non-conformity and authenticity in storytelling.
Jun 18, 2024 • 19min
Bridgerton closes out a crowded third season
Actor Nicola Coughlan discusses the conclusion of Bridgerton's third season, focusing on the complexities of characters like Colin and Penelope. The podcast also explores critiques of the season's rushed developments, character arcs, and romantic dynamics. Additionally, there is a fun discussion on summer snacks and audience engagement.
Jun 17, 2024 • 22min
It's getting hot. So what's sweatiest movie ever made?
Movies like Do the Right Thing, Dog Day Afternoon, Y tu mamá también, and Body Heat are debated for being the sweatiest. The hosts discuss how heat is used as a catalyst in films to intensify emotions and create tension. They explore iconic sweaty movies set in hot environments and analyze the climatic conditions contributing to the overall atmosphere and authenticity.
Jun 14, 2024 • 21min
Inside Out 2 And What's Making Us Happy
Maya Hawke discusses portraying Anxiety in Inside Out 2, a sequel where Riley faces new emotions due to puberty. The hosts dive into summer snacks debate: Hot Dog vs. Hamburger, Churro vs. Funnel Cake. They tease a virtual live event for supporters with bonus content and sponsor messages.
Jun 13, 2024 • 23min
Jake Gyllenhaal's Presumed Innocent updates a legal thriller
Jake Gyllenhaal discusses his role in a legal thriller limited series on Apple TV+. They talk about the transformation of the story, character portrayals, and the nuances of the plot. The podcast also delves into the comparisons with the original movie, analysis of different characters, and the portrayal of complex relationships in the show.
Jun 11, 2024 • 24min
Our favorite graduation moments in pop culture
Exploring iconic graduation moments in pop culture, from 'Superbad' to 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'. Delving into the significance of graduation ceremonies and transitions. Reflecting on memorable high school songs and movies capturing the essence of the final wild night of high school.
Jun 10, 2024 • 15min
Am I OK? is a coming-out movie for adults
Actresses Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno discuss 'Am I OK?', a film about a woman accepting her queerness later in life. The movie explores adult themes of identity and relationships, portraying the journey of self-acceptance and the impact on lifelong friendships. The podcast also delves into summer snack preferences and invites listeners to cast their votes for a live event.
Jun 7, 2024 • 26min
Hit Man And What's Making Us Happy
Exploring a dark comedy film 'Hit Man' and its unique storyline. Debate on summer snacks: Hot Dog vs. Hamburger, Churro vs. Funnel Cake. Audience participation in virtual live event through PCHH+ supporters. Plus, discussions on a new show 'Queenie' and excitement for 'Wake Up Dead Man'. Finding happiness in disco music and a thrilling book 'The Plot'.
Jun 6, 2024 • 27min
Doctor Who is enlivened by its new Black, openly queer star
Ncuti Gatwa brings vibrant energy to 'Doctor Who' as its new Black, openly queer star. The discussion explores the show's evolution, blending classic and modern aspects, new character Ruby Sundae, and critiques on writing. Design elements, summer snacks survey, and upcoming live event for supporters are also highlighted.
Jun 5, 2024 • 21min
Clipped recreates an embarrassing NBA scandal
A new FX series, Clipped, dramatizes the scandal involving Donald Sterling, former owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. The series explores the racism scandal through secret recordings made by Sterling's Black and Mexican girlfriend, leading to uproar in the NBA. Featuring Ed O'Neill and Laurence Fishburne, the show delves into the clash between the owner and head coach amidst the scandal.
