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
Apr 18, 2024 • 19min
Hot Ones And Conan O'Brien
Conan O'Brien, the recent standout guest on Hot Ones, discusses the unique experience of eating spicy wings while answering questions. The podcast delves into the impact of Hot Ones on internet culture, the authenticity of the show compared to scripted talk shows, and memorable reactions from celebrities. The discussion also includes comedic moments, chaotic spicy wing challenges, and the disruptive performance of guests on the famous YouTube show.
Apr 16, 2024 • 19min
X-Men '97
X-Men 97 picks up where the original series left off, with secrets, roster changes, and shocking fates. The new Disney+ series delivers big fights, powers, and mutant melodrama, capturing the essence of the beloved 90s animated show.
Apr 15, 2024 • 9min
Books We Love: Love And Romance
Delve into love stories from meet cutes to happy endings with book recommendations for romance fans. Explore connections in airport settings, unconventional love stories in Muslim conferences, and the significance of friends and family in love stories. Get book recommendations and sponsor messages in this episode.
Apr 12, 2024 • 23min
Civil War And What's Making Us Happy
Kirsten Dunst, a jaded war photographer in the film Civil War, leads a band of journalists through the heart of conflict. The podcast delves into themes of truth, reality, and the impact of documenting conflict zones. It analyzes war realities, political commentary, and journalistic ethics in the film, while also exploring sci-fi films and joyful recommendations.
Apr 11, 2024 • 22min
Girls State
The podcast explores the new Apple TV+ documentary Girls State, a mock government program for high school girls filmed in 2022. It delves into the challenges and double standards faced by young girls in political and societal spheres, highlighting the importance of addressing issues like misogyny and sexism. The discussion also delves into the unequal treatment of participants in Girls State compared to Boys State, as well as the complexities of friendship and power dynamics among the girls in the program.
Apr 10, 2024 • 23min
Shōgun
Explore the intrigue and power struggles in feudal Japan in the gripping series 'Shogun.' Delve into the complexities of loyalty and sacrifice, while examining the authenticity and diversity in epic TV show storytelling. Discover the comedic elements and performances that make this series a must-watch.
15 snips
Apr 9, 2024 • 19min
A Guide To Stephen King
Join the hosts as they explore the impact of Stephen King's works, discussing favorite adaptations like 'Stand By Me', King's writing process, and themes in his novels. Critiquing 'The Tommyknockers', praising 'The Long Walk', and diving into the allegorical elements of '11,22,63' and 'The Breathing Method'.
Apr 5, 2024 • 25min
Monkey Man And What's Making Us Happy
Dev Patel discusses his new action film 'Monkey Man' where he seeks revenge for his destroyed village and murdered mother. The podcast explores the film's action-packed scenes, cultural influences, fight scene analysis, and the hosts' sources of joy including live concerts and captivating books.
Apr 4, 2024 • 20min
Ripley
Delve into the complex characters in the new Netflix series Ripley, as Tom disrupts Dickie's luxurious life in Italy. Explore the subtle character dynamics and queer subtext, along with John Malkovich's role and anticipation for future episodes.
Apr 2, 2024 • 34min
Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter
Dolly Parton & Linda Martell join Beyoncé on her country album 'Cowboy Carter', while Post Malone & Miley Cyrus provide star-studded duets. Discussion on breaking country norms and seeking validation through collaborations. Impact of Beyoncé on country music and the album's themes of personal growth and female empowerment.
