Gen Z and the movies

A wacky merchandise quiz

Jul 6, 202621 minSummary

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, host Linda Holmes leads fellow panelists Glen Weldon, Stephen Thompson, and Aisha Harris through a spirited and often hilarious trivia quiz centered on the bizarre world of movie and television merchandise tie-ins. The hosts explore the strange history of brand collaborations, ranging from the surprisingly niche to the unintentionally comedic. Throughout the game, the panelists test their knowledge of real-world products, including Hunger Games-themed makeup collections, Star Trek-inspired marshmallow dispensers, and infamous green ketchup promoted by Shrek. The discussion highlights the strange intersection of consumerism and entertainment, with the hosts reacting in disbelief to marketing copy that once attempted to sell wine using the bleak themes of The Handmaid’s Tale. The episode balances friendly competition with insightful observations about why certain branding choices succeed or fail in the marketplace. While the hosts jokingly navigate trick questions and unexpected product descriptions, they offer a lighthearted look at the lengths studios go to capitalize on fan enthusiasm. Ultimately, the episode serves as a funny, nostalgic romp through some of the most memorable—and questionable—marketing campaigns in recent pop culture history.

Minions & Monsters and What’s Making Us Happy

Jul 3, 202622 minSummary

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, host Stephen Thompson is joined by journalists Rihanna Cruz and Candace Lim to discuss the latest installment in the Despicable Me franchise, Minions and Monsters. The panel explores the film's unique structure, which functions as a series of minion-led side quests set in 1920s Hollywood. The hosts offer varying perspectives on the movie; some celebrate its clever visual references to classic cinema, such as Buster Keaton and Orson Welles, while others debate the film’s narrative consistency and historical liberties. The discussion highlights the Minions' evolution into meta-commentary icons, with the guests analyzing how the characters navigate the modern entertainment landscape. Beyond the main film critique, the hosts share their personal recommendations for the week. Their picks range from the addictive, reality-TV drama of Love Island to the nostalgic pop sounds of the Backstreet Boys, and finally to the eccentric, mask-clad art rock of the French-Canadian duo Angine de Poitrine. The conversation provides a spirited look at the latest in pop culture, balancing lighthearted appreciation with thoughtful analysis of current media trends.

The Bear

Jul 1, 202622 minSummary

In this episode, the hosts and guest critic Ruxana Hadati explore the fifth and final season of the acclaimed series The Bear. They discuss the show’s decision to return to its roots, focusing on a high-stakes, single-day service that tests the crew amidst a series of chaotic challenges. The discussion highlights the strengths of the season, particularly the emotional growth of ensemble characters like Richie and the satisfying resolution of the restaurant’s professional goals. The panel also engages in a critical analysis of the season’s narrative choices, specifically questioning the creative direction regarding Carmi’s character arc and his unexpected interest in architecture. While they express some frustration with the season’s pacing and certain artistic departures, such as the musical score and a flashback episode perceived as overly performative, they remain largely positive about the show’s legacy. Ultimately, the discussion touches on the blurred lines of television genres and the powerful, earned moments of human connection that kept audiences invested throughout the series’ run. The conversation serves as a bittersweet farewell to a show that balanced immense tension with small, intimate character studies.

The best depictions of the American dream

Jun 30, 202633 minSummary

In this episode, the hosts embark on a thoughtful exploration of the American Dream by selecting pop culture touchstones that best encapsulate this complex, often contradictory ideal. Rather than focusing on traditional narratives of guaranteed success, the group examines works that highlight the tension between optimistic ambition and the harsh realities of American life. Linda Holmes kicks off the discussion with the film Apollo 13, framing the space program as a poignant symbol of ingenuity, scientific curiosity, and the collective resolve to solve impossible problems. Aisha Harris pivots to the grit of the television series The Wire, using characters like Frank Sobotka and Bunny Colvin to illustrate how rigid systems can both trap individuals and push them to attempt noble, if often flawed, interventions. Glenn Weldon brings in the documentary Grey Gardens, analyzing it as a fascinating portrait of American aristocracy in decay, where the pursuit of status meets isolation. Finally, Stephen Thompson highlights Jasmine Sullivan’s song The Other Side, which captures the modern, conditional nature of success tied to wealth and appearances. Together, the hosts offer a nuanced look at how pop culture reflects both the persistent allure and the frequent disappointment of the American Dream.

Jackass: Best and Last

Jun 29, 202621 minSummary

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour Plus, host Stephen Thompson and panelists Ronald Young Jr., Jordan Morris, and Rienna Cruz gather to discuss the latest installment in the long-running franchise, Jackass: Best and Last. As the group explores this potential final chapter, they reflect on the evolution of the series, from its chaotic roots on MTV to its current status as a nostalgic victory lap for the aging cast. The conversation highlights the unique nature of the film, which functions more as an anthology or greatest-hits reel than a traditional narrative. The hosts debate the effectiveness of the retrospective elements, with some appreciating the emotional journey of watching the cast grow older, while others feel the sentimentality feels forced or unnecessary. They also analyze the technical brilliance of the stunts—comparing them to classic physical comedy—and acknowledge the franchise's role in influencing today’s digital content creators. Despite quibbles regarding the movie's structure and the inclusion of newer cast members, the panel agrees that the core objective remains the same: a relentless, earnest commitment to making the audience laugh through absurdist physical feats.

Supergirl and What’s Making Us Happy

Jun 26, 202622 minSummary

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosts Linda Holmes and Glen Weldon are joined by guest Daisy Rosario to discuss the latest entry in the DC Universe, the new Supergirl film. Starring Milly Alcock as Kara, the movie follows the protagonist on a gritty, Western-inspired journey to aid a young girl seeking revenge. The panel explores the film's tone, which they note is surprisingly dark and grounded in the source material, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. The discussion highlights the hosts’ mixed reactions to the movie. While they appreciate the film's effort to distinguish Kara from her cousin Superman—emphasizing her more cynical, survivalist perspective—they express frustrations regarding the one-dimensional villain, the inconsistent pacing, and the murky visual palette. The panel also engages in a debate over the character's nuanced morality, specifically whether the film successfully portrays her desire to do good without adhering to traditional "niceness." Following the film review, the hosts share their weekly recommendations. Topics include a fond appreciation for the classic film The Godfather, a tribute to the legacy of the Slate Culture Gabfest podcast, and a dive into the addictive domestic thrillers written by author Shari Lapena.

Great movies we missed

Jun 25, 202620 minSummary

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour Plus, hosts Aisha Harris and Linda Holmes, joined by film critic Bob Mandello and writer Walter Chao, highlight several remarkable movies that may have slipped under the radar. The panel shifts focus from their usual mainstream coverage to spotlight films they find personally significant and highly entertaining. The discussion begins with the crime drama Tuner, which impresses the group with its unique premise about a piano tuner whose hyper-sensitive hearing enables him to crack safes. The hosts praise the film’s detailed craft and interpersonal depth. The conversation then pivots to high-octane action with the film The Furious. The panel celebrates its inventive fight choreography and commitment to spectacle, noting it as a must-watch for fans of martial arts cinema. The later half of the episode turns toward character-driven and atmospheric storytelling. Bob Mandello recommends She’s the He, a sharp, joyful take on high school comedies that centers queer and trans experiences with humor rather than judgment. Finally, Walter Chao introduces the folk-horror film Heresy, a Dutch production noted for its meticulous practical effects, dark atmosphere, and poetic exploration of power and folklore in the Middle Ages.

Leviticus

Jun 23, 202616 minSummary

In this episode, the hosts discuss the new indie horror film Leviticus, a movie that blends queer coming-of-age themes with a chilling supernatural premise. The story follows a teenager in a small, restrictive religious community who begins a romantic relationship with a friend, triggering a series of violent events involving a demonic entity that mimics those they love. The panel explores the film's effectiveness as a genre piece, with the hosts offering varying perspectives on its impact. While some feel the film is somewhat underwritten and occasionally leans into a simplistic narrative, others praise its visceral atmosphere and the strong chemistry between the leads. A central point of discussion is the film's haunting metaphor for the internalization of homophobia and the damage caused by conversion therapy. The hosts engage in a nuanced debate about the necessity of bleak, trauma-focused storytelling in the current cultural landscape. Ultimately, despite their differing levels of emotional connection to the film, the panel agrees that Leviticus is a bold, thought-provoking project that warrants a watch, particularly for its take on horror as a reflection of real-world struggle.

Best Pixar Movies, Ranked

Jun 22, 202626 minSummary

In this encore episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosts Stephen Thompson and Aisha Harris revisit an earlier listener poll to rank the greatest Pixar films of all time. Based on the preferences of their audience, the hosts break down a top-five list—which, due to a tie, actually highlights six iconic movies. The discussion explores the enduring legacy of the original Toy Story and the emotional depth of Coco, which the hosts praise for its vibrant visual storytelling and poignant themes of family and remembrance. They move on to analyze Up, focusing on its famous opening sequence, and Finding Nemo, reflecting on how its depiction of overprotective parenting resonates differently depending on one’s stage of life. The hosts also share nuanced, sometimes critical, perspectives on Wall-E, acknowledging its masterful wordless opening while debating the shift in tone during its later acts. Finally, the episode highlights Inside Out as the number-one pick, celebrating its profound exploration of human emotions and the necessity of sadness. Throughout the episode, Thompson and Harris reflect on why these films remain cultural touchstones, balancing technical mastery with deep, relatable storytelling.

Toy Story 5 and What's Making Us Happy

Jun 19, 202624 minSummary

In this episode, the hosts are joined by guest Regina Barber to discuss the latest installment of the Pixar franchise, Toy Story 5. The discussion centers on the film's shift from traditional play to the influence of digital technology, as the beloved toy gang navigates Bonnie’s increased focus on a tablet. The group explores the recurring themes of obsolescence and the existential crises that define the series, noting how these movies often function as metaphors for both the challenges of childhood and the complexities of parenthood. While the hosts have differing opinions on the film’s narrative clutter and the pacing of its B-plots, they collectively find the experience moving, visually stunning, and ultimately delightful. They also dive into the emotional resonance of the movie, sharing personal anecdotes about the pressures of growing up and the difficulty of letting go of childhood interests. The episode concludes with the hosts sharing their weekly recommendations, including a K-drama, an anime about volleyball, and new music from Tierra Whack and the artist Underscores, highlighting the show’s ongoing focus on finding joy in diverse cultural experiences.