Pop Culture Happy Hour

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team discusses the long-awaited sequel Practical Magic 2, which reunites Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as witch sisters grappling with a deadly family curse. They consider whether the film recaptures the original’s 90s charm while the next generation discovers new dangers. The episode also includes the hosts’ current pop culture favorites, featuring recommendations from NPR’s archive for the spooky season.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team celebrates the unapologetically basic TV shows and movies they genuinely love. From Nicolas Cage's treasure-hunting antics in National Treasure to the ABBA-fueled joy of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, and the comforting formulas of Dateline NBC and The People's Court, the conversation explores why embracing mainstream, formulaic entertainment can be a source of reliable pleasure. The metaphor of the pumpkin spice latte — basic but beloved — sets the tone for a discussion about letting go of cultural pretension and enjoying what actually makes you happy.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews Filipiñana, a new film from director Rafael Manuel that offers a fresh take on the eat-the-rich genre through the lens of a country club in the Philippines. The film is described as both visually stunning and emotionally devastating, combining striking aesthetics with sharp social commentary. The hosts praise its anti-colonialist satire and compare its style to Wes Anderson's distinctive visual approach. The episode highlights how the film subverts familiar narratives about wealth and class.

In this cross-over episode from NPR's It's Been a Minute, host Brittany Luse talks to NPR music reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento about the practice of influencers taking money to promote music without disclosure. They explore the mechanics and the broader consequences for music discovery and listener trust.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team reviews the new Prime Video teen drama Sterling Point, a series about a mysterious inheritance, a love triangle, and multigenerational secrets. The show's twists and heartfelt moments are discussed, and the hosts also share their personal picks for what's making them happy this week.

In this short episode, the Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts share a handful of lesser-known daily online games they enjoy as alternatives to the ubiquitous Wordle and Connections. The recommendations include geography, historical-photo guessing, word building, and social deduction games. The episode frames these picks as a way to expand the daily puzzle ritual that millions have adopted.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses the horror film It Ends, about four recent college graduates on a road trip that turns into an endless drive through a dense forest. The panel explores how the film blends a laid-back hangout vibe with creeping existential dread, creating a chill yet chilling experience. They also dive into the psychological toll of an inescapable situation and what it says about fear and the unknown.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews Ridley Scott's post-apocalyptic film 'The Dog Stars,' which stars Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Allison Janney. The film, based on a best-selling novel, centers on survivors after a virus has wiped out most of humanity. The hosts question whether the familiar premise and star-studded cast are enough to pull viewers in.

The hosts discuss the long-awaited release of Coyote vs. Acme, a Looney Tunes film that was famously shelved and almost never saw the light of day. They explore the plot — Wile E. Coyote suing the Acme Corporation for its faulty products — and the cast featuring Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor. The episode also includes a conversation about the hosts' favorite Dolly Parton musical performances.

Pop Culture Happy Hour revisits the Hulu comedy series Adults, which follows a group of Gen Z friends navigating life together in Queens. The hosts discuss what makes the show a fun, relatable take on the familiar 20-somethings sitcom format, especially as the series returns for its second season.

In this back-to-school themed episode, the hosts of Pop Culture Happy Hour discuss their favorite fictional teachers from TV and movies. Drawing from their own nostalgia, they highlight memorable educators from My Girl, My So-Called Life, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, and Dune: Part One, exploring what makes these characters stand out and the lasting impression they leave on their students.

PCHH reviews HBO's Lanterns, a DC superhero show that subverts expectations by grounding its cosmic premise in a character-driven mystery. The series stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, a pair of space cops whose dynamic anchors a story that avoids large-scale spectacle. The discussion considers whether the show's restrained approach can satisfy both hardcore comics fans and newcomers looking for compelling drama.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews the new Anthony Bourdain biopic 'Tony,' which stars Dominic Sessa as a young, pre-fame Bourdain. The film focuses on a pivotal summer in 1975 when Tony worked his first kitchen job in Provincetown, and the hosts consider whether it rises above standard biopic conventions.

In this encore episode, the Pop Culture Happy Hour team revisits a special edition of 'What’s Making Us Happy' focused entirely on the 1970s. The hosts each recommend a piece of pop culture from the decade that still resonates today, including Isaac Hayes’ Shaft soundtrack, Carole King’s Tapestry, Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On, and the children’s book The Monster at the End of This Book.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews Phoebe Bridgers’ new solo album Lost Weekend, her first in several years. The hosts discuss its mix of grief and joy, its guest stars including boygenius, Jack Antonoff, and Bo Burnham, and its lush production. They consider whether the album lives up to the anticipation, noting its quotable lyrics and thematic depth. Ultimately, they share their thoughts on whether it's a worthy return for the indie darling.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team reviews the queer slasher film Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma. Directed by Jane Schoenbrun, the movie follows a young filmmaker (Hannah Einbinder) hired to reboot a dead franchise, with Gillian Anderson as a reclusive actress. The film is a meditation on slasher filmmaking, sexuality, and identity, while also delivering gore-filled fun.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews The End of Oak Street, a new film from writer-director David Robert Mitchell in which Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor play a married couple whose early-1980s suburban neighborhood is suddenly transported to a land of large, dangerous dinosaurs. The film is described as part action-adventure, part monster movie, and part dark comedy. After a long run of dinosaur-dominated blockbusters, the hosts consider whether Mitchell's take adds something new to the prehistoric creature feature. The episode also includes the show's regular What's Making Us Happy segment.

As summer blockbuster season comes to a close, Pop Culture Happy Hour revisits its conversation about major movies the hosts never saw. The panel finally catches up on Armageddon, Beverly Hills Cop II, Ghost, and The Fast and the Furious. The episode frames these as personal blind spots in otherwise pop-culture-heavy media diets. It also points listeners toward related episodes on summer snacks, Jaws at 50, and the sweatiest movie of all time.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews the fourth season of the Apple TV+ comedy series Ted Lasso. The new season sees Ted (Jason Sudeikis) return to the U.K. to coach a brand-new women’s soccer team, bringing back familiar faces like Hannah Waddingham and Brett Goldstein alongside newcomers Tanya Reynolds and Abbie Hern. The panel discusses whether the show still has something fresh to say and if the new direction is worth viewers’ time.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour panel discusses fictional workplaces from television shows they'd love to work in. They touch on Ted Lasso, Game of Thrones, The Muppet Show, and The West Wing as examples of dream TV workplaces. The episode reflects on the appeal of different work environments depicted on screen, from coaching positivity to political intensity.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews One Night Only, a dystopian rom-com set in an alternate reality where premarital sex is outlawed except for one 12-hour annual window. The film stars Monica Barbaro and Callum Turner as two New Yorkers looking to take advantage of the brief legal period, but the panel questions whether the movie lives up to its sexy setup or pulls its punches.

Ariana Grande releases her new album 'Petal' after years of intense public scrutiny over her relationships and weight. Coming off two Wicked films and a summer hit, she announced a step back from public life after her current tour. The Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts discuss whether the songs on 'Petal' successfully capture this transitional moment in her life.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team revisits a previous debate to crown the sweatiest movie of all time. They discuss films known for drenched performances, including Do the Right Thing, Dog Day Afternoon, Y tu mamá también, and Body Heat. The conversation is a light, summer-themed exchange that weighs visual sweat, atmospheric heat, and the directors’ use of perspiration as a cinematic device.

In this episode, the hosts review the new film I Want Your Sex, starring Olivia Wilde as a mixed-media artist who enters a consensual but unprofessional sub/dom relationship with her assistant. Directed by Gregg Araki, the film leans into his signature brand of in-your-face sexuality. The hosts discuss the film’s tone, the dynamic between the characters, and what the movie says about sex in modern cinema. They also recommend other sex-themed films like 'The Invite' and 'Pillion,' and touch on what makes a good sex scene.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the latest live-action entry starring Tom Holland and Zendaya. The film leans into a more grounded, character-driven tone under director Daniel Destin Cretton and features Jon Bernthal, Tramell Tillman, and Sadie Sink. The hosts debate whether the darker approach strikes the right balance between fun and seriousness, and compare it to previous Spider-Man films before sharing what's making them happy this week.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews 'The Dink,' a new pickleball comedy starring Jake Johnson as a failed tennis player who befriends a pickleball player played by Mary Steenburgen. The episode discusses the film's high-stakes contest, surprising heart, and effective humor in the tradition of classic sports comedies. Hosts offer their takes on this breezy addition to the genre.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews the Hulu series Furious, a twisty serial-killer drama starring Emmy Rossum as an FBI agent pursuing a female killer. The hosts examine the show's blend of dark humor and thriller elements, questioning whether the tonal balance works. They also consider the performances of Rossum and Lola Petticrew as the story's central opposing forces.

Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts a game show revealing the results of a listener poll on the best summer snacks. Listeners voted on their favorite treats, and the episode gamifies the reveal, turning a simple list into a playful debate. This interactive format has been used for other topics like Pixar movies and Muppets, building a community-driven cultural conversation. The episode originally aired as a bonus for NPR Plus supporters. The show frames summer snacks as essential fuel for road trips, movies, and music, tapping into nostalgia and seasonal joy.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team discusses the new film adaptation of the Tony-winning Broadway musical Hadestown, which brings the original principal cast together for a limited five-night-only theatrical release. The show is a musical retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the conversation touches on what it means to see a live theater phenomenon translated to the big screen.

Pop Culture Happy Hour revisits the YouTube phenomenon Hot Ones, the interview show where celebrities answer questions while eating increasingly spicy chicken wings. The hosts discuss what makes a great Hot Ones guest, with a special focus on Conan O'Brien, often called the show's best guest. They note that Sean Evans is bringing the format to Netflix with specials called Hot Ones: Extra Heat. This encore episode examines the appeal of watching guests struggle through the heat and how it creates uniquely candid moments.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts share their personal and passionate takes on music festival etiquette during peak summer season. They discuss whether social decorum has declined, debating the use of phones at concerts, the fierce competition for front row spots, and how to navigate dense crowds without being a jerk. The conversation blends gripes, strategies, and reflections on whether festival behavior has really gotten worse or if nostalgia just makes it feel that way.

Will Ferrell stars as a past-his-prime golfer in the new Netflix series The Hawk. The show reunites him with comedy collaborators Molly Shannon, Luke Wilson, and Chris Parnell, evoking the Frat Pack era of early 2000s comedies. The review considers whether this throwback sports comedy feels fresh or dated, and whether Ferrell's signature self-absorbed athlete persona still lands in a series format.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team discusses Christopher Nolan's new epic adaptation of Homer's The Odyssey. They break down the star-studded cast, including Matt Damon as Odysseus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope, and the spectacular challenges Odysseus faces on his journey home. The episode also includes recommendations for other sweeping epic blockbusters like Oppenheimer and Project Hail Mary.

The hosts discuss the new comedy film Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass, directed by David Wain. The movie follows a hairdresser (Zoey Deutch) who attempts to have sex with a celebrity on her own pass list after her fiancée already did. The conversation touches on the film’s humor, performances, and its place among recent goofy comedies. The group also notes David Wain’s signature absurdist style and how it influences the movie’s tone.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses the new Netflix adaptation of Little House on the Prairie, which shifts the focus to Laura's earlier years in Kansas. The series highlights the tension between the Ingalls family's pursuit of a better life and the displacement of the local Osage people. The panel explores how the show grapples with pioneer hardships and community building, and what makes the Little House story endure across generations.

In this episode, the hosts review The Invite, a new comedy directed by and starring Olivia Wilde. They discuss how the dinner party premise leads to chaotic and refreshingly frank conversations about sex and relationships. They highlight the chemistry among the cast, including Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton, and the film's balance of humor and heart.

This episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses Disney's new live-action remake of Moana. Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, this time appearing in person rather than just voicing the character, while newcomer Catherine Laga'aia takes on the title role. The film includes a new song by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also wrote music for the original animated film. The hosts consider how the remake differs from the original and what it adds to Disney's growing catalog of live-action adaptations.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team breaks down the 2026 Emmy nominations, highlighting the record-breaking haul for Hacks and impressive showings for Widow's Bay, The Pitt, and The Bear. They also dig into the year's most surprising snubs and offer early predictions for who might take home trophies when the ceremony airs. This 26-minute conversation provides a spirited analysis of the state of television and the awards race as it stands in early July 2026.

Gen Z has become the largest moviegoing demographic, driving the box office success of horror films like Obsession and Backrooms. This episode explores what makes a movie resonate with Gen Z audiences, featuring host Brittany Luse in conversation with Sam Adams and Reanna Cruz about shifting cultural tastes, internet buzz, and the trend of 'movie maxxing.' The crossover episode from NPR's It's Been a Minute examines how the film industry is adapting to younger viewers who prioritize communal theatrical experiences.

Pop Culture Happy Hour presents a quiz episode all about the strangest brand collaborations between movies, TV shows, and consumer products. The team tests their knowledge on oddities like Green Shrek ketchup, The Handmaid's Tale wine, and Grogu serving boards. It's a fun, lighthearted look at how pop culture seeps into everyday items.

The newest Despicable Me prequel, Minions & Monsters, drops the yellow henchmen into 1920s Hollywood, where they become silent film stars before the arrival of talkies threatens their relevance. When one minion uses a dead wizard’s spell book to conjure cute-but-deadly monsters, the film blends historical setting with trademark chaotic humor. The Pop Culture Happy Hour team discusses whether this installment captures any genuine old Hollywood charm and offers their recommendations for what’s making them happy this week.

Linda Holmes and the Pop Culture Happy Hour team discuss the final season of FX's 'The Bear.' They consider whether the series concluded satisfyingly for both the characters and the audience, focusing on the final day of service at the restaurant.

Pop Culture Happy Hour marks America's 250th birthday by discussing pop culture that best captures the American dream. The conversation spans David Simon's The Wire, the space survival film Apollo 13, the documentary Grey Gardens, and a contemporary song described as a spiritual successor to Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car."

The hosts of Pop Culture Happy Hour discuss Jackass: Best and Last, the purported final installment in the long-running stunt franchise. The film combines new stunts with a compilation of classic clips from the series' history. The episode explores whether this blend of old and new provides a fitting send-off for the crew, or if it ultimately falls short. The review considers the film's place within the broader Jackass legacy.

The hosts review the new Supergirl movie starring Milly Alcock. They discuss the film's portrayal of Supergirl as a grumpy, fearless "dirtbag" and the revenge plot involving a dog. The episode also features the regular "What's Making Us Happy" segment where hosts share personal recommendations.

In this short 20-minute episode, the hosts of Pop Culture Happy Hour recommend four recent movies that listeners may have missed: The Furious, Tuner, She's The He, and Heresy. The episode appears to be a rapid-fire roundup with brief mentions of each film. No detailed discussion or plot synopses are available from the show notes. The recommendations are aimed at helping viewers catch up on notable releases they might have overlooked.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses the horror film Leviticus, set in a small Australian religious community where two queer teens’ attraction triggers violent events. The movie blends a queer coming-of-age romance with an indictment of conversion therapy, all while a demonic entity preys on the characters’ deepest fears. The hosts explore how the film uses horror to examine shame and repression.

Pop Culture Happy Hour revisits an episode from 2025 where they revealed the results of a listener vote on the greatest Pixar films of all time. Thousands of fans cast ballots, and the hosts break down the final ranking, exploring why certain movies rise above others in the studio's beloved catalog. The conversation touches on generational favorites, emotional resonance, and how Pixar's storytelling continues to evolve.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses Toy Story 5, the latest Pixar installment where Bonnie's new Lilypad tablet draws her away from her physical toys. The hosts examine how the film tackles screen time and neglect through the lens of its classic characters. They also share what's been bringing them joy this week.

Olivia Rodrigo's third album 'you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love' mixes spikey rock with tender ballads. The album is a collection of fizzy, sometimes jagged pop songs that follow a love story from blissful high to devastating low. Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses how this evolving sound underscores the emotional arc of the record.

Widow’s Bay is a new Apple TV horror-comedy series about a mayor, played by Matthew Rhys, trying to revive a struggling island town that might be cursed. The show blends scares and laughs, and features a cast including Stephen Root, Kate O’Flynn, and Betty Gilpin.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team reviews Stop! That! Train!, a parody disaster film that mashes up Airplane!-style rapid-fire jokes with the campy world of RuPaul's Drag Race. RuPaul stars as the president trying to save a train amid a 'stormaganza,' while drag queens Jujubee and Ginger Minj play train attendants. The film is loaded with Drag Race alumni and comedy heavy-hitters. The hosts discuss whether it chugs along smoothly or veers off the rails, and the consensus is that it's a ridiculously fun ride.

NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses Steven Spielberg's new alien blockbuster Disclosure Day, comparing it to his iconic films E.T. and Close Encounters. The film stars Emily Blunt and Josh O'Connor as characters compelled by an unknown force, with authority figures hiding a massive secret. The panel explores how the movie fits into Spielberg's legacy and the enduring appeal of alien contact stories. The episode also includes the show's regular 'What's Making Us Happy' segment.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team dives into the current scandal rocking Bravo's Summer House, involving cast members Kyle Cooke, Amanda Batula, West Wilson, and Ciara Miller. They explore why this drama has captured attention far beyond the show's core audience, examining what makes Bravo's formula so compelling and what drives the addictive storytelling. The conversation also looks ahead to where the franchise might go from here.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour team reviews Netflix's Office Romance, starring Jennifer Lopez as a CEO who falls for her employee (Brett Goldstein). They discuss whether the on-screen chemistry works, how it fits into Lopez's rom-com history, and Goldstein's transition from 'Ted Lasso' star to romantic lead and co-writer.

The latest Scary Movie, a legacy sequel that parodies the very idea of legacy sequels, is reviewed. The panel examines whether the film's meta humor and flurry of pop-culture references still land, and discuss the return of original stars Anna Faris and Regina Hall alongside a new generation facing Ghostface.

A review of the new Masters of the Universe movie, a nostalgic but contemporary adaptation packed with Easter eggs for longtime fans and starring major names. The conversation weighs its appeal for superfans against its efforts to reach a broader audience with a comedic update.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses the film Power Ballad, in which Paul Rudd plays a wedding singer who collaborates with a former boy bander (Nick Jonas) on a song, only to discover his partner trying to claim it as his own. The panel considers John Carney's direction (known for music-driven films like Sing Street and Once) and the movie's original music, performances, and handling of artistic rivalry.

The Pop Culture Happy Hour panel reviews Spider-Noir, a new Prime Video series that expands on Nicolas Cage's cameo from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. They examine how the show combines the visual and narrative tropes of film noir with a superhero story. The discussion covers whether the series successfully sustains the gimmick beyond a short film, and its place among other offbeat superhero adaptations.

The new horror film Backrooms, based on director Kane Parsons' web series, explores the eerie world of liminal spaces. The story follows a furniture store manager (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who discovers a secret labyrinth of unsettling rooms and discusses his experiences with a therapist (Renate Reinsve). The film emphasizes mood over plot, creating a deeply unnerving sense of place. In this episode, the Pop Culture Happy Hour team examines what makes these generic, beige-carpeted spaces so terrifying and how the film translates internet-born horror to the big screen.

The Apple TV+ series Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed is a twisty scam thriller that follows a newly divorced woman who finds solace in an online relationship with a camboy, only to have a frightening incident upend her life. The show features a strong cast including Tatiana Maslany, Jake Johnson, and Murray Bartlett, and a sharp script that makes the most of its high-concept premise. The Pop Culture Happy Hour team discusses the performances, the tension, and what makes the series a fun, fast-paced watch.

The Netflix comedy 'The Four Seasons,' co-created by Tina Fey, returns for a second season. It follows a group of couples navigating mid-life crises that threaten their long-standing friendship. The cast includes Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Colman Domingo, and Will Forte. While the dialogue may not reach the rapid-fire pace of Fey's earlier show '30 Rock,' her sharp comedic voice is evident throughout.

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews the new film I Love Boosters, starring Keke Palmer as the leader of a shoplifting crew taking on an unethical fashion CEO played by Demi Moore. Directed by Boots Riley, the film is described as a delightfully unhinged satire on the fashion industry. The hosts discuss the performances, Riley's unique style, and the film's take on consumerism and power.

Pop Culture Happy Hour discusses the new Netflix series The Boroughs. Set in a mid-century modern retirement community in the desert, the show blends sci-fi with a monster mystery and features a cast of veteran actors. The hosts explore the premise and the appeal of a 'septuagenarian Scooby Gang.'

Pop Culture Happy Hour reviews Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, the first big-screen outing for the Disney+ series. The panel discusses the film's plot, where the Mandalorian is hired by good guys for a bad-guy job, and weighs whether the familiar mix of creatures, droids, easter eggs, and fights translates to theaters. They also question whether audiences will pay for a theatrical experience after three seasons of couch viewing.