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
11 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 24min
Lurker And What's Making Us Happy
Dive into the complexities of fame and friendship through the intense relationship depicted in the film 'Lurker.' Explore the emotional strain and power dynamics between a retail clerk and a rising musician. The discussion also highlights the fascinating world of parasocial relationships in cinema. Lighthearted reflections bring joy through personal experiences and cultural references. Plus, discover a haunting album by Gordy and a whimsical game that lets you run your own bookshop!
14 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 19min
Best John Grisham Adaptations, Ranked
The latest discussion dives into the top five adaptations of John Grisham's thrilling novels, ranking films like The Firm and A Time to Kill. The hosts analyze standout performances from stars like Susan Sarandon and Tom Cruise, focusing on themes of justice and morality. They highlight the intriguing narrative depth in The Pelican Brief, praising its gripping plot. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorites, sparking an engaging conversation about Grisham's impact on cinematic storytelling.
Aug 19, 2025 • 23min
Our 15th Anniversary Time Capsule
Join the hosts as they celebrate 15 years of pop culture insights with a nostalgic dive into their early hot takes. They reminisce about the evolution of horror preferences and changing perceptions of iconic stars like Jack Black and Beyoncé. The emotional impact of childhood costumes is dissected, contrasting homemade delights with store-bought convenience. Listeners are encouraged to share their own costume memories, while the hosts reflect on their journey and share hopes for the future.
Aug 18, 2025 • 21min
Highest 2 Lowest
Spike Lee's new crime thriller reunites him with Denzel Washington, exploring themes of responsibility and power in a gripping kidnapping narrative. The filmmakers discuss reinventing classics and the artistic risks involved. The musical score contrasts urban life with orchestral influences, reflecting on hip-hop culture. The dialogue touches on wealth, identity, and the portrayal of New York, while examining the dynamics of class and race, highlighting crucial societal critiques woven into the story.
18 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 26min
Alien: Earth And What's Making Us Happy
Joelle Monique, a filmmaker and pop culture critic, teams up with writer Chris Klimek to dive into the new spinoff, Alien: Earth. They explore complex character dynamics, blending horror with childhood nostalgia. Discussions touch on the portrayal of women and children, and the ethical questions surrounding artificial consciousness. Their insights on power dynamics in contemporary media, alongside a nod to humor in award shows, add depth to a rich conversation about the intersections of joy and horror in the franchise.
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.
27 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.
