Shows
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #156 "Scott of the Bells"PopaHALLics #156 "Scott of the Bells"In this on-location episode, Steve interviews Scott Soltermann, who plays, records, and programs the carillion (bells) at Butler University in Indianapolis. Steve and his wife often hear the bells in their neighborhood and began wondering about the anonymous player. Scott, a former music and special needs teacher, also listened to the bells while growing up in Indianapolis. When he returned home from Oregon, he volunteered to keep them going, Now, on a clear day, his playing can be heard for up to two miles! For non-Hoosiers: Wh...
2025-12-0531 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #155 "Breaking Good"PopaHALLics #155 "Breaking Good"Can one unhappy woman save the world from "hive mind"? Why does Kate think motherhood is an important theme in the new "Frankenstein"? And Alicia Silverstone may be "Clueless" about her feelings in a new holiday movie.Streaming:"Pluribus," Apple TV. In the new sci-fi drama from the creator of "Breaking Bad," can the most miserable person on Earth (Rhea Seehorn) save the world from happiness from an extraterrestrial virus? And does Steve agree with the series' 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating?"Frankenstein," Netflix. Last episode, we heard Steve's thoughts o...
2025-11-2132 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #154 "It's Alive!"PopaHALLics #154 "It's Alive!"In this mini-episode, Steve's solo with his review of Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" and the book "Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run," by Peter Ames Carlin. Kate provided rapid-fire reviews of new albums by female artists.Streaming:"Frankenstein," Netflix. Del Toro's version of Mary Shelley's 1818 novel is visually gorgeous, solidly acted, and really comes to life when the Creature (Jacob Elordi) tells his tale. Oscar Isaacs is the arrogant Victor Frankenstein, out to create life even if he hasn't thought through what happens next...
2025-11-1412 min
Humor In The C-SuiteWorth the Risk: Why Steve Carey Says Startup Humor is EssentialIn this engaging episode of Humor in the C Suite, Kate Davis interviews Steve Carey, a media industry veteran known for his unique blend of humor and expertise in launching media startups. With over two decades of experience, Steve shares his journey from starting as a coffee-fetching runner to becoming a successful producer and business owner, adding humorous anecdotes and insights along the way. Now living in Surrey, UK, Carey continues to contribute to the world of media with his witty and insightful writings, including his latest book exploring the lighter side of LinkedIn.Key Takeaways:...
2025-11-0433 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #153 "Popping Up Secrets"PopaHALLics #153 "Popping Up Secrets" Dad and daughter dish on Lily Allen's "divorce album," the new seasons of "Slow Horses" and "The Diplomat," a late-to-the-party discovery of TV's "Interview with a Vampire," a funny, wise novel called "I See That You've Called in Dead"—and more!Streaming:"Sisu: Road to Revenge," Hulu, Prime. In this John Wick-ish Finnish action thriller, Nazi soldiers steal gold from an old prospector. One problem: He's a former "one-man death squad" legendary for his ruthlessness. "Slow Horses," Apple TV. In Season 5, coordinated terrorist attacks in London begin a d...
2025-10-3129 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #150 "Halls on Holiday: The PNW"PopaHALLics #150 "Halls on Holiday: The PNW" (part one)Join us for a special adventure into the Pacific Northwest! Steve celebrates his retirement with a "retirementmoon" - an almost month-long trip in Oregon and Washington State - and Kate joins him in Seattle. In part one, Steve and his wife travel cross-country on the Empire Builder train; explore funky Portland; travel along the scenic Oregon and Washington coasts; explore the diverse ecosystems of Olympic National Park and the Hoh Rain Forest; visit sites used for filming "The Goonies" and "Twilight"—and more! It's the trip of a...
2025-09-2628 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #147 "Pop and Politics"PopaHALLics #147 "Pop and Politics"Steve and Kate weigh in on "South Park" taking on Trump; the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show; and the demise of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Then we talk Lena Dunham's new show; Happy Gilmore—and more! NOTE: Steve's voice is muted in spots due to recording difficulties, not interference by government overlords. We think.Streaming:"Too Much," Netflix. In this rom-com mini-series created by Lena Dunham ("Girls"), New Yorker Jessica (Megan Stalter) flees to London with a broken heart. Almost immediately she is attracted to...
2025-08-0829 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #143 "Pop Go the Generations"PopaHALLics #143 "Pop Go the Generations"Dad and daughter discuss the thrill of introducing your kid to your childhood pop culture faves. Also: Tina Fey does a series remake of an old Alan Alda/Carol Burnett movie. A documentary looks at Anita Pallenberg, "a rock and roll goddess." And Steve examines the making of the classics "Double Indemnity" and "High Noon."Streaming:"The Four Seasons," Netflix. In this TV series remake of the Alda/Burnett movie, the decades-long friendship of three couples is tested when one divorces, complicating their quarterly weekend...
2025-05-2331 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #141 "Sing Me a Song"PopaHALLics #141 "Sing Me a Song"A folk duo's pricey gig for one rich prerson. A utopian paradise hiding a dark secret. A serial killer tale: Is it real true-crime or made-up horror? And who IS Kate's favorite Mr. Darcy in "Pride & Prejudice"?Theaters:"The Ballad of Walllis Island," written by Tim Key and Tom Basden and directed by James Griffiths. An eccentric lottery winner (Key) recruits his favorite musical duo (Basden and Carey Mulligan) to play a private concert on his remote island home in this British comedy/drama. But old...
2025-04-1828 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #139 "Deception"PopaHALLics #139 "Deception"The truth is, er, fluid in the pop culture discussed in this episode, from a married spy trying to determine if his spouse is doing wrong, to an Australian pretending to have a fatal disease for profit and influence, to a supervillain seemingly going straight who might still be very bent. In Theaters:"Black Bag." In this spy thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh, a legendary intelligence agent (Michael Fassbender) must determine if his wife/fellow spy (Cate Blanchett) has committed treason—and whether his loyalty is to his marriage or...
2025-03-2128 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #137 "Ch-ch-ch-changes""PopaHALLics #137 "Ch-ch-ch-changes"Bridget Jones is dating again ... A new Captain America faces off against Red Hulk ... The sixth wife of Henry VIII tries to say alive ... and a cat faces off against a massive flood. Oh, and did we mention Kate's grandmother caused a fire at IU?Theaters:"Captain America: Brave New World." The new Cap, Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie), takes up the shield just in time to get involved in an international incident. And the new president (Harrison Ford) is hulky and seeing red.Streaming:"...
2025-02-2127 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #135 "We're Cold on These Xmas Songs"PopaHALLics #135 "We're Cold on These Xmas Songs"Hey kids! Let's gather around the Christmas tree and play "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer"! What? Matricide doesn't make you merry? Well, OK, how about the Pussycat Dolls' "Santa Baby"? Too bump-and-grindy? Steve and Kate discuss a few Christmas songs that annoy us, and our playlist is full of them. As well as a few we like. Also: Kate's review of "Wicked," our takes on the holiday movies "Hot Frosty" and "Last Christmas," and the TV series "Life After Life." Theaters:"Wicked."...
2024-12-1336 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #133 "Martha My Dear—NOT!"PopaHALLics #133 "Martha My Dear—NOT!"A new documentary fails to make Martha Stewart sympathetic, in Kate's view. We also discuss season 2 of "The Diplomat" and "Colin from Accounts," a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, and books about therapy, a cult, and a "normal" serial killer. Yikes.Streaming:"Martha," Netflix. This documentary directed by Jay Cutler traces Martha Stewart's rise from working-class roots to pop culture icon, through interviews and Stewart’s private archives of diaries, letters, and footage."The Diplomat," Netflix. Season 2 follows the personal and professional aftermath of the ship attack and car...
2024-11-1531 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #130 "The Witch, The Killer ... & Emily in Paris"PopaHALLics #130 "The Witch, The Killer ... & Emily in Paris"Kate muses on the appeal—and fashion—of the Netflix hit "Emily in Paris," recently named by The New York Times as one to "hatewatch." (You dislike the show so much that you still watch it so you can ridicule it.) First, we look at "American Murder: Laci Peterson" and talk about three novels. Also: "The Lost Kitchen."Streaming:"Emily in Paris," Netflix. As the fourth season begins, marketing executive Emily (Lily Collins) has even more romantic and professional dilemmas! Golly! Part one of t...
2024-09-0626 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #127 "Let's Do the Twist-er"PopaHALLics #127 "Let's Do the Twist-er"Despite her tornado fears, Kate gets sucked into the new disaster movie "Twisters." Steve goes samurai with "Shogun." Also: Murders! Mysteries! Monkeys! (Haven't you always wanted a mon-KEY?)In Theaters:"Twisters." In this "stand-alone sequel" to the 1996 hit, a woman (Daisy Edgar-Jones) testing a new tornado tracking system in Oklahoma crosses paths with a reckless, charismatic storm chaser (Glen Powell). Things are about to get stormy!Streaming:"Twister," Max, Prime, and other streaming services. In this 1996 Jan de Bront thriller, Helen Hunt...
2024-07-2629 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #124 "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Pop, Love, & Understanding?"PopaHALLics #124 "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Pop, Love, & Understanding?Multiverse mayhem, bodice-ripping romance, and female comedians! Dueling Joel Edgertons! Music by a rising young singer/songwriter and a crafty popsmith of old! Steve and Kate return with a little something for everyone. Streaming:"The Boys in the Boat," Prime. George Clooney directed this fact-based movie about the University of Washington rowing team's quest to compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Joel Edgerton plays their coach."Dark Matter," Apple TV+. A college professor (Edgerton again) finds himself abducted into an alternate version...
2024-06-0727 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #121 "This Ain't Texas"PopaHALLics #121 "This Ain't Texas"Kate and Steve wrestle with existential questions: Is Beyonce country enough? Is Steve Martin a sad and lonely guy instead of a wild and crazy one? And why does James Taylor's biography start in Scotland hundreds of years ago?!Streaming:"Steve (!) Martin, a Documentary in 2 Pieces," Apple +. Morgan Neville's documentary (180 minutes total) follows Martin's career from his days as a kid magician through rock-star standup to TV star/happy guy today."The Gentlemen," Netflix. This action comedy from Guy Ritchie ("Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels," "Snatch") f...
2024-04-1225 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #119 "Highly Recommended"PopaHALLics #119 "Highly Recommended"Instead of dissing pop culture offerings, dad and daughter rave about them on this episode. Steve's a fan of "American Fiction," "The Last Repair Shop" and "Colin from Accounts." Kate really likes "All of Us Strangers," "Bottoms," and "The New Look." Streaming:"American Fiction," in theaters and for purchase. In this Best Picture nominee, a black novelist (Jeffrey Wright) writes a satire of the stereotype-heavy books he despises—and it becomes a hit."All of Us Strangers," Hulu and rental. In this acclaimed film, a screenwriter (Andrew Scott) de...
2024-03-0829 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #118 "Feuding Friends"PopaHALLics #118 "It Takes Two to Tango"Relationships can be a tricky dance, whether you're mismatched cops working a murder case ("Deadloch"), a movie star & a "civilian" falling in love ("Starstruck"), or socialites mistakenly trusting a writer who will betray them ("Feud: Capote Vs. The Swans"). Not to mention two assassins living together ("Mr. & Mrs. Smith")!Streaming:"Masters of the Air," Apple +. Austin Butler ("Elvis") and Callum Turner play pilots and friends more like siblings in this "Band of Brothers"-esque look at the 100th Bomb Group during World War II."Deadloch," P...
2024-02-1632 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #116 "Moviemaking with Mike"PopaHALLics #116 "Moviemaking with Mike"Last time we talked about "Extraction USA," it was a trailer for a movie that didn't exist yet. Writer/director Mike Yonts updates us on its progress toward the big screen— an interesting conversation about what it's like to make a movie. Dad and daughter also dish on Britney Spears, Mark Wahlberg, and what we think of each other's faves.Here's the "Extraction USA" trailer. Books:"The Woman in Me," by Britney Spears. Kate has a new appreciation for the pop singer after this memoir. It...
2024-01-1929 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #114 "Avoid These Shows!"PopaHALLics #114 "Avoid These Shows!"You want some turkey? We take out the knives to carve up "Obliterated," "The Buccaneers," and "Monarch: A Legacy of Monsters." But we also make two recommendations for holiday viewing—including one not traditionally thought of as a "Christmas" movie.Streaming:"Obliterated," Netflix. An elite special forces team drunk and stoned from partying must find a nuclear bomb before Las Vegas is, well, obliterated. Steve says this violent, sexual dramedy is a comedy dud."The Buccaneers," Apple+. A group of American girls go to England in search of...
2023-12-2128 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #109 "Start Making Sense"PopaHALLics #109 "Start Making Sense"Steve experienced the re-release of the restored "greatest concert film of all time," "Stop Making Sense." Just in time for "spooky season," Kate talks about two indigenous horror novels. And don't forget the home invasion thriller with 1 line of dialogue!In Theaters:"Stop Making Sense." Academy Award-winning director Jonathan Demme ("Silence of the Lambs") and the Talking Heads directed this 1984 movie with arty staging and everyone playing with "intense energy and joy" (Steve).Streaming: "Virgin River," Netflix. When you're in the mood for a...
2023-09-2930 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #108 Who Are You?PopaHALLics #108 Who Are You?Dad and daughter disagree on the merits of Netflix's "Who is Erin Carter?"—who do you think is right? We also look at two series: the "Justified" reboot and "Painkiller," about the origins of the opioid crisis. And new music (Kate) and, um, classic music (Steve).Streaming:"Who is Erin Carter?", Netflix. In this British TV series, a substitute teacher (Evin Ahmad) foils a robbery with fighting skills she shouldn't have. Then her secret past comes calling."Painkiller," Netflix. Matthew Broderick, Uzo Adoba, and Taylor Kitsch star in...
2023-09-1530 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #107 "Murderous & Foreboding"PopaHALLics #107 "Murderous & Foreboding"Characters are killing it—literally—in the streaming options and novels we discuss. A wife killing her "perfect" husband. A Broadway star taking an elevator shaft down without the elevator. And did we mention the creepy Swedish cult festival?Streaming:"Midsommar," streaming & rental, In this 2019 horror film written and directed by Ari Aster, a dysfunctional couple (Florence Pugh and Jack Reynor) travel to a rural town for a midsummer festival that turns out more bizarre and violent than they expected. "Only Murders in the Building," Hulu. Season 3: When an ac...
2023-09-0128 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #106 "Barbie & the Bomb"PopaHALLics #106 "Barbie & the Bomb"Millennial daughter and boomer dad both think director Greta Gerwig did a great job playing with dolls in the global phenomenon "Barbie." Kate also saw director Christopher Nolan's biopic "Oppenheimer" and reveals if the movie was a bomb or a blast. (Sorry!) We also joke about fans at a Vampire Weekend concert. (Sorry again!)In Theaters:"Barbie." Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling play Barbie and Ken in this ambitious, entertaining comedy, also with America Ferrera, Simu Liu, Will Ferrell, Rhea Perlman, and more."Oppenheimer." This acclaimed biopic...
2023-08-1826 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #105 "Popagumbo"PopaHALLics #105 "Popagumbo"Dad and daughter record in the same room for a change—but they're still all over the pop landscape. Dolls that kill! Dealing-with-grief memoir! Dirty deeds in LA! Dungeons & Dragons! And yet we still find time to be mean to one of the Hemsworth brothers. Streaming:"M3GAN," Prime and rental. In this hit horror comedy, a high-tech toy designer (Allison Williams) invents the perfect robot companion for her niece. What could possibly go wrong?"Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves," Prime, Paramount +, and rental. This fun action-packed heist comedy ju...
2023-08-0430 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #103 "Indiana Jones & The Last Movie"PopaHALLics #103 "Indiana Jones & The Last Movie"We review "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" and speculate why Harrison Ford's final outing in the brown fedora is doing poorly at the box office. For those of you not into 80-year-old action heroes, we also discuss season 2 of "The Bear," the new "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," and "Violent Night," about a drunken embittered Santa on a slay ride. Get it?In Theaters:"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." Harrison Ford and Phoebe Waller-Bridge want to stop ex-Nazi Mads Mikkelsen from bending t...
2023-07-0723 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #101 "Movie Dreams"PopaHALLics #101 "Movie Dreams""Extraction USA" is a teaser trailer for a movie - that doesn't exist. Yet. In this interview with Steve and Kate, writer/director/DP Mike Yonts and star/producer Leanne Johnson talk about trying to get their female empowerment/action crime drama from screenplay to the big screen. It's an interesting look into the scrappy, unpredictable world of independent filmmaking.See the trailer and read about the movie, cast, and crew.Find out more about Leanne.Find out more about Mike. And hey, if...
2023-06-0231 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #99 "Keep Calm and Keri On"PopaHALLics #99 "Keep Calm and Keri On"Stick with Keri Russell, friends, and she'll get you through international crises ("The Diplomat") and bruins high on blow ("Cocaine Bear"). Steve thinks the airplane movie "On a Wing and a Prayer" should be grounded. And we discuss the wonderful and weird fashions at this year's Met Gala. Streaming:"The Diplomat," Netflix. Russell ("The Americans") stars in this limited series as a career diplomat suddenly elevated to ambassador to the United Kingdom. Her new posting will have implications for her turbulent marriage, her political future...
2023-05-0527 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #98 "Steve Was Wrong"PopaHALLics #98 "Steve Was Wrong"In a rare instance, Steve admits he was wrong about the merits of a TV show. But which one? We also review "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," "Abbott Elementary," "Transatlantic," "Dream Horse," and take another look at "Wednesday," "Ted Lasso," "The Mandalorian," and the novel "The House Across the Lake."Theaters:"The Super Mario Bros. Movie." In this animated action comedy, plumber Mario must stop villain Bowser from conquering the world. With the voice talents of Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jack Black, and more....
2023-04-2127 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #96 "Ghosts, 'Banshees,' & RockersPopaHALLics #96 "Ghosts, 'Banshees,' & Rockers"Dad and daughter talk 2023 Oscar results—was Angela Bassett robbed?—as well as a downbeat Irish drama, female ghosts, and a fake rock band burning up the charts.Streaming:"Daisy Jones and the Six," Amazon Prime. Kate says this tale of a fictional rock band is much better than the book, and the music is great too. (See Music below.) Riley Keough, granddaughter of Elvis Presley, stars, thankyouverymuch."The Banshees of Inisherin," HBO Max and rental. The friendship of two islanders (Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson ) goes...
2023-03-2428 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #95 "Turn the Page"PopaHALLics #95 "Turn the Page"Kate and Steve return from a month off with a bunch of books under their belts, from software geeks to tough-guy crime to paintings that may be portals to other worlds We also discuss streaming options "Wakanda Forever" ; "The Flight Attendant"; and "Pamela, A Love Story" (you think you know Pamela Anderson of "Baywatch" fame? You don't. ) We also talk Oscars, sorta.Books"Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow," by Gabrielle Zevin. "Two college friends become creative partners in a dazzling and intricately imagined world of video game de...
2023-03-1027 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #94 Pop Across the PondPopaHALLics #94 "Pop Across the Pond"How did those folks on the other side of the Atlantic get to be such great storytellers? Dad and daughter discuss the silly BBC-style mockumentary "Cunk on Earth," the Irish drama/black comedy "Bad Sisters," and a sprawling novel about a dysfunctional family that begins on the English Coast, "The Whalebone Theatre." 'Course, we talk about some stuff made in 'merica too.Streaming:"Cunk on Earth," Netflix. The ill-informed, irreverent Philomena Cunk (Diane Morgan) sets out to document the highlights of human history by visiting exotic loc...
2023-02-1025 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #93 "Trouble A-Popping!"PopaHALLics #93: 'Trouble A-Popping!"A wide-ranging discussion of various pop culture options has one thing in common: Trouble! Two best friends who don't realize they should be worst enemies ("RRR"). The zombie apocalypse ("The Last of Us"). Trying to bring someone back from Hell ("Hell Bent"). And more. Kate also discusses a very weird dating prompt.Streaming:"RRR," Netflix. This alternative history finds two real-life Indian revolutionaries becoming best friends and taking on the English colonial government in the 1920s. The hyper-reality (reality-enhanced?) action and dance sequences will blow your mind."The...
2023-01-2029 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #92 "Look into a Glass Onion"PopaHALLics #92 "Look into a Glass Onion"Steve and Kate opine on "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery," starring former Bond Daniel Craig as famed detective Benoit Blanc. In the movie, quickly becoming one of Netflix's biggest hits ever, a group of friends gather on a remote island for a murder mystery game that turns deadly. We also discuss Tim Burton's Addams Family-inspired "Wednesday," "Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio," and more.Streaming:"Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery," Netflix. In addition to Craig, Kate Hudson, Edward Norton, Kathryn Hahn, Janelle Monae, Dave Bautista, a...
2023-01-0627 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #90 "From Dickens to Dictators"Popa HALLics #90 "From Dickens to Dictators"Just in time for the holidays comes a new high-spirited, self-aware musical that reimagines Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" from the ghosts' perspective. Meanwhile, Kate is fascinated by a podcast that explores the origin stories of "the worst humans in history." First up: Hitler. Steaming:"Spirited," Apple TV +. Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds sing and even tapdance as the Ghost of Christmas Present (Ferrell ) tries to convince an "unredeemable" PR sleazeball (Reynolds) to change his ways. With Octavia Spencer."The Crown," Netflix. Season 5 finds the roy...
2022-12-0227 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #88 "The Game is Afoot!"PopaHALLics #88 "The Game is Afoot!"It's elementary, my dear listener. Steve and Kate have fun discussing "Enola Holmes 2," about Sherlock's younger sister on the trail of a missing match girl. We also talk murder—both real (at Harvard, no less) and fictional (a coworker coverup in Japan)—and explore the curious case of a schlocky zombie movie that isn't what it seems. This mystery is worthy of Baker Street! Streaming:"Enola Holmes 2," Netflix. Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven on "Stranger Things") returns as an aspiring detective hoping to break out of th...
2022-11-1121 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #87 "Medieval Love - Modern Style"PopaHALLics #87 "Medieval Love - Modern Style"Kate reviews two 2022 movies that tackle medieval love with modern sensibilities. In "Catherine, Called Birdy," the independent daughter of a financially destitute lord resists his attempts to marry her off. Meanwhile, "Rosaline" is a comic retelling of "Romeo and Juliet" from the viewpoint of Romeo's ex. Steve reviews notable horror novels, causing dad and daughter to debate what's scarier: Horror or True Crime.Streaming:"Catherine, Called Birdy," Prime. Writer/director Lena Dunham ("Girls") turns Karen Cushman's beloved children's novel into a medieval comedy with Bella Ra...
2022-10-2821 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #86 It Ain't Over Til the Fat Man EatsPopaHALLics #86 It Ain't Over Til the Fat Man EatsIn this weighty episode, Steve reviews Brendan Fraser's comeback role as a 600-lb. college professor, while Kate talks about modern dating in connection with a "comedy philosophy book." Also reviewed: "Corsage "and "Sins of Our Mother." Coming to Theaters:"The Whale." In this drama drawn from a play, Fraser ("The Mummy") plays Charlie, who seeks to reconcile with his estranged daughter (Sadie Sink, "Stranger Things"). Their performances are powerful. The movie, on the other hand ... "Corsage." In this vivid reimagining of a y...
2022-10-2124 min
PopaHALLicsPopsHALLics #85 "Witchy Women"PopaHALLics #85 "Witchy Women"The witch, the witch, the witch is back! Namely, the Sanderson sisters, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy in "Hocus Pocus 2." This sequel to the beloved holiday fave comes along 29 years later. The magic continues with the novels "The Witch's Daughter" and "The Good House," with voodoo at work. Ooooh!Streaming:"Hocus Pocus 2," Disney +. Nostalgia for the original movie will likely make you forgive the flaws of the sequel, with the Sandersons back to terrorize Salem, Massachusetts."The Outfit," various streaming. A tailor played...
2022-10-0721 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #83 "Expensive, My Precious"PopaHALLics #83 "Expensive, My Precious"With a $1 BILLION commitment over five years, Amazon Prime's "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" would be the most expensive TV series ever made. Steve talks about what Jeff Bezos is getting for his money. We also discuss:Streaming"Bad Sisters," Apple TV+. In this Irish dark comedy thriller, a group of women (Sharon Horgan, Eve Hewson, Eva Birthistle and Sarah Greene) are suspected of murdering a despicable man. Twisty and funny."Extraordinary Attorney Woo," Netflix. In this charming Korean drama, an autistic attorney is...
2022-09-1622 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #82 "Do the Hulu"PopaHALLiics #82 "Do the Hulu"Kate and Steve reunite to talk pop culture, only to discover they've both been streaming mostly Hulu offerings. If you like comedic murder mysteries, thrilling and sometimes thoughtful space adventures, and feisty princesses, you should do the Hulu too.Streaming:"Thirteen Lives," Amazon Prime. Ron Howard directs and Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell star in a gripping true-life story about the rescue of a Thai soccer team from a flooded cave."Only Murders in the Building," Hulu. New season, new murder for intrepid podcasters Steve...
2022-08-2626 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #81 "Our POP History"PopaHALLics #81: "Our POP History"Dad and daughter hop from pop topic to pop topic. "Crying in H Mart," a memoir by Michelle Zauner (in photo ) about how food ties us to those who have passed, prompts Kate to talk about food in connection with her mom's illness and death from cancer. Meanwhile, Steve makes his life musical with a series of concerts and long drives enjoyable by listening to the myth-busting podcast "Our Fake History." Streaming:"The Gray Man," Netflix. Ryan Gosling stars in a thriller with beautifully choreographed action scenes. A...
2022-08-0527 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #78 "Both Sides Now"PopaHALLics #78 "Both Sides Now"Steve and Kate review two new movies which look at love from both sides now—at different ages, anyway: The messy 20s (Cooper Raiff's "Cha Cha Real Smooth") and the adventurous 60s ("Good Luck to You, Leo Grande," starring Emma Thompson). We also discuss sitcom "Rutherford Falls," Harry Style's latest record, and several spooky books.Streaming:"Cha Cha Real Smooth," theaters and Apple TV. In this Sundance favorite written, directed by and starring Raiff, 25, a college grad tries to figure out adulthood while begi...
2022-06-2427 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #77 Dinos to Darth VaderPopaHALLics #77 "Dinos to Darth Vader"We cover a lot of ground in 27 minutes, from amazingly realistic dinosaurs to a Jedi haunted by his experience with the future Darth Vader ... from a strange but true World War II ruse to Mormon extremists ... from the return of "Stranger Things" to a novel inspired by an intense fashion rivalry. Dig in! Streaming:"Planet Prehistoric," Apple TV. This nature series from the BBC and executive producer Jon Favreau (Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney) didn't really film dinosaurs in their natural habitats. It just lo...
2022-06-0326 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #76 "Those Meddling Kids!"PopaHALLics #76 "Those Meddling Kids!"Did you know "Scooby Doo" was ranked the fifth-greatest cartoon of all time by TV Guide? Steve delves into the history of Scoob and the gang in a discussion of a new fan-made show, "Mystery, Incorporated." Meanwhile, Kate raves about Florence + The Machine's new album and the novel "Sea of Tranquility." Zoinks! Streaming"Mystery, Incorporated," YouTube. Scooby Doo and his teen friends get a contemporary live-action makeover in this pilot for a proposed TV series. Is it a Scooby Snack or a "Ruh-roh"?Novels
2022-05-2021 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #75 "Breaking Good"PopaHALLics #75 "Breaking Good"What do Walter White, British scandals, and the Met Gala have in common? We discuss all of them on this episode! Kate talks about two streaming efforts with Brits, sex, and trouble. She also has strong opinions (shocker!) about the fashions at this year's Met Gala. Meanwhile, watching in bits and pieces, Steve has finally finished all five seasons of landmark TV series "Breaking Bad." He reflects on what makes this one of the greatest TV series ever.Streaming"Breaking Bad," Netflix. In Vince Gilligan's crime drama, a...
2022-05-1326 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #74 Sci Fi-nePopaHALLics #74 "Sci Fi-ne"Parallel universes, time loops, and dreams altering past and present reality—we're talking sci-fi! Steve reviews the mind-bending movie "Everything, Everywhere, All at Once" and season two of time-traveling series "Russian Doll." Meanwhile, Kate ponders the prescient Locus-winning sci-fi masterpiece "The Lathe of Heaven," which was talking about climate change all the way back in 1971. Steve also does the worst Dr. Evil impersonation ever.Streaming/Theaters:"Everything, Everywhere, All at Once," in theaters. Failing laundromat owner Michelle Yeoh must connect with parallel universe versions of herself to save the...
2022-04-2926 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #73 Growing UpPopaHALLics #73 Growing Up We discuss a Norwegian movie about a young woman heading reluctantly toward adulthood, a fun new female-led British band, an adult novel inspired by a fairy tale, and a sci-fi novel in which we actually put on our grown-up pants and address climate change. Also, why you should never, ever fly into Newark.Streaming"The Worst Person in the World," rental. While critics struggle to describe this "Norwegian romantic black comedy drama," Steve says it's an excellent movie about a young woman (Renate Reinsve, above) figuring out who s...
2022-04-1532 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #72 "Dressed Up for Oscar!"PopaHALLics #72 "Dressed Up for Oscar!"We critique the red carpet looks for the 2022 Academy Awards, with Kate showing her fashion expertise and Steve ... uh, not. We also have thoughts on the Oscar telecast and the Slap Heard 'Round the Internet. But wait, there's more! We also discuss:Streaming"The Lost City." When romance novelist Sandra Bullock is kidnapped by a wealthy baddie (Daniel Radcliffe) searching for treasure, it's up to her cover model (Channing Tatum) and a Zen-like ex-Navy Seal (Brad Pitt) to save her. This escapist romantic comedy was clearly i...
2022-03-3029 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #71 Seeing RedPopaHALLics #71 "Seeing Red"Let's paint the podcast red! We discuss an animated feature about a girl who transforms into a giant red panda when feeling strong emotions; an Aaron Sorkin drama about TV's favorite redhead, Lucille Ball; and the bloody swords and spears of Danes and Saxons.Streaming"Turning Red," Disney +. Kate thinks conservative outcries over this Pixar movie from a female production team are ridiculous. "Being the Ricardos," Amazon Prime. Steve says this Best Picture nominee manages to make Lucy not so lovable ... or at least not that funny. Nicole Ki...
2022-03-2530 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #69 "Cops, Cons, & Rock n Roll!"PopaHALLics #69 "Cops, Cons, & Rock n Roll!"We discuss "Inventing Anna," the true-crime story of a fake German heiress who lived large with little cash; the Swedish detective drama "Young Wallander"; and music, music, music, from a novel about a fictional rock band to the nerdy Icelandic group that dances like nobody's watching. Even though everybody is. Streaming"Young Wallander: Killer's Shadow," Netflix. The younger version of world-weary detective Kurt Wallander (Adam Pålsson) discovers that a seemingly straightforward hit-and-run case is much more than it appears."Inventing Anna," Netflix. Kate liked t...
2022-03-0425 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #65 Let's Put on a Show!PopaHALLics #65 "Let's Put On a Show!"Novelist Peter Ferry (our guest way back in Ep. #6) returns with exciting news: A stage adaptation of his award-wining "Old Heart" is set to premiere at Detroit's Redford Theater later this year. Pete talks about how the play came about because of independent filmmaker Roger Rapoport ("Coming Up for Air") and the way casting is bringing another layer of meaning to the material. Pete and Steve also discuss pop culture they're consuming .Books"When Will There Be Good News?" by Kate Atkinson. Atkinson's memorable private...
2022-01-2824 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #64 That Time We Put on Our Own Film FestivalPopaHALLics #64 That Time We Put on Our Own Film FestivalAfter reading a profile of Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki, Steve and his wife have a mini-Miyazaki film festival in their living room. Hear about the films they watched and why Steve wants to do this with other directors. We discuss:Miyazaki Films"My Neighbor Totoro." Two young spunky girls are befriended by a giant forest spirit in this animated family classic."Kiki's Delivery Service." A young witch-in-training tries to find her special power—and deal with a boy's attention—in this...
2022-01-2122 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #63 "Transformers (Not the Robots)"PopaHALLics #63 "Transformers (Not the Robots)"The streaming options and books in this episode have one thing in common: The characters or real people face challenges or experiences that transform their lives, from a comet threatening life on Earth to an obsessive classics professor to a headless knight who vows to kill his attacker in a year. (You read that right.) Strap in as Steve and Kate discuss:Streaming:"Don't Look Up," Netflix. This dark satire uses a planet-killing asteroid as a metaphor for mankind's inability to take serious action against climate c...
2022-01-1436 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #62 "Highly Recommended""Highly Recommended"In a first, Steve and Kate mostly rave about what we have seen and read. While we have reservations about a few things—sorry, Boba Fett and Sandra Bullock—you'll hear about plenty of worthwhile pop culture. We discuss:Streaming"Picnic at Hanging Rock" , Amazon Prime. In this Australian gothic miniseries based on the 1967 novel, a group of schoolgirls vanish on an outing. Natalie Dormer ("Game of Thrones") plays their mysterious headmistress."We Are Lady Parts", Peacock. This British series about four young Muslim women in a punk rock band...
2022-01-0729 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #61 Not So Home AlonePopaHALLic #61 "Not So Home Alone"Gathered for a holiday outing, Steve, Kate and the Resident Kid Expert (RKE) discuss seasonal offerings, including the fifth "Home Alone" movie, "Home Sweet Home Alone," on Disney +. Wait, you say, isn't Macauley Culkin like in his 40s now?! Yes —41, actually—but it's a different kid. The RKE gives his review. We also talk about:Streaming:"Love Hard," Netflix. In this holiday-themed rom com, Nina Dobrev drops everything to fly across the country for Christmas with the hunk from her dating app that she's never actually met...
2021-12-2228 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #59 I'm Putting You on (Red) NoticeI'm Putting You on (Red) NoticeDad and daughter beg to differ on "Red Notice," Netflix's most expensive production to date ($200 million). Kate thinks the action comedy starring Dwayne Johnson, Gail Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds is a waste of time. Steve thinks it's an entertaining action movie with memorable one-liners from Reynolds. Who's right? Listen in! We also discuss:Theaters/Streaming:"Belfast," Sir Kenneth Branagh's intimate crowd-pleasing movie about being a young boy in a gritty Northern Ireland neighborhood when the "Troubles" begin. Music by Van Morrison."Cruella," with Em...
2021-11-1925 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #57 Emma, Billy Bob, and Night TeethEmma, Billy Bob, and "Night Teeth"In another free-wheeling feisty episode, Steve and Kate share their thoughts on:Streaming"Emma," an enjoyable 2020 Jane Austen adaptation starring Anya Taylor-Joy ("The Queen's Gambit") "Destination Wedding" (2018), a love-or-hate-it rom-com with Winona Ryder and Keanu Reeves as two misanthropes thrown together at a wedding"Night Teeth" (2021), a so-so horror/action/comedy thriller with a young chauffeur caught up in vampire wars in L.A."Friday Night Lights," the much-loved TV series with Kyle Chandler as a high school football coach in Texas
2021-10-2935 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #56 Straight from the Heart-LandPopaHALLics #56 Straight from the Heart-LandSteve reports on offerings from the Heartland International Film Festival, which invites filmmakers and audiences to experience the transformative power of film. The festival turned 30 this year, showcasing films and documentaries that will be coming to streaming services and theaters near you. Steve reviews:"American-ish," a dramedy about three Pakistani-American women navigating career, romance and family issues in NYC"It's a Summer Film!", a delightful Japanese movie about why we love movies"See You Next Christmas," a holiday party-themed rom-com starring Elizabeth Guest (niece of Christopher Guest and Jamie Lee...
2021-10-2129 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #55 Women Rock!Women Rock!What's the unofficial theme running through this show? Strong women, from the female assassins of "Gunpowder Milkshake" to real-life punk rock designer Vivienne Westwood to the rocking sisters of Larkin Poe. We discuss:Streaming:"Gunpowder Milkshake," with Karen Gillan, Lena Headey, Carla Gugino and more as women you don't want to make mad"Official Secrets," with Keira Knightley as real-life whistleblower Katharine Gun, who leaked a memo exposing an illegal spying operation by American and British intelligence services "Midnight Mass," with Kate Siegel among those dealing with miracles and monsters on a...
2021-10-1531 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #54 Pop Catch-Up!Pop Catch-Up!We play catch-up on the pop culture we consumed while apart, including:Streaming"The Chair," a university drama with Sandra Oh as a department's beleaguered chair"Kate," an action thriller with assassin Mary Elizabeth Winstead searching for the people who poisoned her"The Lovebirds," a rom-com with Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani as a couple trying to solve a murder as their relationship falls apart"The Defeated," a series with Chicago cop Taylor Kitsch searching post-WWII Berlin for his schizophrenic brother while helping a German policewoman fight violent crime"...
2021-10-0134 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #53 Dressed to Win!Dressed to Win!Who looked great at the Emmys and Met Gala, such as Michaela Coel ("I May Destroy You")—and who should have stayed at home? We have lively opinions—Kate's informed by fashion sense, Steve's not so much. We also have fun talking about:"Only Murders in the Building," a Hulu comedy/drama with Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez trying to solve a murder in their NYC apartment buildingWhether Kacey Musgraves ("the country Cher," Kate says) will finally break through with her new break-up-themed album "Star-Crossed"Steve's take on Lorde...
2021-09-2431 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #51 A Lotta Pop!"A Lotta Pop!"Steve and Kate hit the pop culture supermarket and emerge with several carts crammed to the top with offerings and opinions. We discuss everything from a Netflix documentary about a woman raised by wolves (!) to what made Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts so great to whether the Baroness in "The Sound of Music" was a Nazi.Streaming"Modern Love," an anthology series inspired by the New York Times feature."Misha and the Wolves," a documentary that investigates a woman's claims to having survived the Holocaust by living with wolves.Music...
2021-08-2734 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #50 Streaming & Novels"Streaming & Novels" Kate and Steve offer their opinions of these pop culture offerings:Streaming"The Pursuit of Love," a period miniseries starring Lily James and Emily Beecham as two cousins seeking love. Written and directed by Emily Mortimer."Solos," a new drama anthology "about what it means to be human." "Schmigadoon!", a comedy that celebrates musicals even while parodying them. Cecily Strong and Keegan Michael Key are trapped in a town where everything's a musical. "Ted Lasso," Season 2. A sports psychologist (Sarah Niles) makes life uncomfortable for gee-whiz soccer coach Ted."Bl...
2021-08-2031 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #49 "Podcast Pioneer!""Podcast Pioneer!"Chaz Rough got in on the ground floor of podcasting in 2005, and today his "YOGAmazing" podcast has over 20 million downloads globally. In an interview recorded at the Podcast Movement convention in Nashville, Chaz shares an insider's take on the early days of podcasting. ( For instance: Dannie Gregorie of Louisville was one of the first to use the term "podcasting" to describe the automatic download and synchronization of audio content.) Where's Podcasting Headed?Chaz shares his thoughts on podcasting's explosive growth since 2014, and where—with the recent influx of big mon...
2021-08-1230 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #48 "Woodstock 1969: I Was There""Woodstock 1969: I Was There"Stan Worth of Indianapolis attended the Woodstock music festival in August of 1969—an event that epitomized the 1960s counter-culture at its best. At least 400,000 young people came together at Max Yasgur's dairy farm to celebrate peace, love and great music. During an interview with Steve and Kate, Stan shares his first-person stories of being there: Candid, funny, and yes, inspiring.The Bands, the Mud, the DrugsStan remembers wonderful musical performances, from opener Richie Havens (forced to play three hours because traffic jams kept other groups from ge...
2021-08-0539 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #45 Make It Pop"Make It Pop"We're back together again (remotely), for a wide-ranging discussion from cringe-worthy moments in favorite movies to Jason Momoa's hair.Streaming DiscomfortWe talk about aspects of the Goldie Hawn/Kurt Russell screwball comedy "Overboard," the Audrey Hepburn/Fred Astaire flick "Funny Face," and
2021-07-1643 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #44 Talking Art with Etta"Talking Art with Etta"On this installment, Kate goes solo, conducting her very first interview. She talks to her friend, artist Etta "Miss Love Bomb" Martin, about her art, family, how race affects her work, even how to get through artist's block. Despite technical issues that forced a re-recording of the entire interview, this thoughtful, sometimes surprising conversation might have you re-thinking the inspiration behind your own creative endeavors.You can find out more about Etta's art at her website, Instagram, TikTok, and here .Popahallics #44 PlaylistWith Kate and...
2021-07-0832 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #43 Talking Music with Mike"Talking Music with Mike"You might be surprised to learn that the man behind the music on our show only came back to the piano a few years ago after quitting playing for decades. Mike Bode reflects on his musical journey, from learning to play in college to the experience that drove him away to what eventually brought him back to the keys. Today in addition to a dedicated piano player, he's also picked up the accordion! Over a few late-in-the-evening beers , Mike and Steve have a conversation that ranges from piano "comping" to...
2021-07-0236 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #42 Pop-pourri"Pop-pourri"Potpourri: A mixture of things, especially a musical or literary medley, according to the dictionary. Pop-pourri: A mixture of diverse pop culture offerings, according to us. In this episode, we're all over the pop culture landscape, ferreting out what's good, and pondering such questions as: How's Mel Gibson still working? And why is Billy Bob Thornton so creepy?Movies: From "The Heights" to the "Grizzly Maze"Steve talks about his first post-pandemic trip to a movie theater to watch "In the Heights," a joyous Lin-Manuel Miranda musical that's underperforming at...
2021-06-2534 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #41 Talking Art with Stix"Talking Art with Stix"PopaHALLics goes on location for the first time! Steve interviews Alexis "Stix" Brown, the first artist in residence ever at the Carnegie Center for Art & History in New Albany, IN. The title of Stix's residency, "Interluctor," means "a person who takes part in a dialogue or conversation." Art Encourages ConversationStix's art in the Sally Newkirk Gallery is very much a conversation with the viewer, from a self-portrait with her actual locks that visitors can touch to "Anxiety Lines" that anyone can do to explore their feelings...
2021-06-1831 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #40 Stuck on NetflixStuck on NetflixWhat do a post-apocalyptic fairy tale, a biopic of a famous fashion designer, and a creepy story of a woman trapped in a cryogenic chamber have in common? They're all on Netflix! Just by chance, almost everything Steve and Kate discuss is on the streaming giant, from the family-friendly adventures of a deer boy ("Sweet Tooth") to Ewan McGregor as the designer "Halston" to the French thriller "Oxygen." The whodunnit documentary of an unsolved art heist ("This Is a Robbery") and a serious drama about a survivor of the Rwandan genocide confronting her p...
2021-06-1133 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #38 Talking Comedy with Joe"Talking Comedy with Joe"Steve and Kate interview Emmy -winning Joe Janes, who teaches comedy writing and improvisation at The Second City and Columbia College. He has written for SNL's "Weekend Update" and Jellyvision's "You Don't Know Jack.” He has published three books of his staged work, and his full-length plays include Metaluna and the Science of the Mind Revue and A Hard Day's Journey Into Night. Joe is a regular contributor to the on-line magazine Literate Ape with his weekly satirical column The Minutes of Our Last Meeting.Make 'Em Laugh, Make 'Em...
2021-05-2637 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #37 From Prize Winning Authors to "The Punisher"From Prize Winning Authors to "The Punisher"Kate and Steve wander where their pop culture quirks take them, no matter how diverse. So we talk about "Klara and the Sun," a new novel about a robot girl designed as a playmate for children, by Nobel Prize winner Kazuo Ishiguro; "Gentlemen of the Road," a swashbuckling adventure novel about "Jews with swords" by Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Chabon; and Netflix animated anthology series "Love, Death + Robots," which just launched its second season.Why Do We Like Violent Vigilantes?Steve finds it odd t...
2021-05-2131 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #36 We Get AnimatedWe Get AnimatedKate and Steve are tuned into toons on this episode. We discuss Netflix's wacky new animated feature "The Mitchells vs. The Machines," in which a robot apocalypse threatens a cross-country family trip; Amazon Prime's "Invincible," a teen superhero series from the maker of "The Walking Dead"; and the Disney + series "Star Wars: The Bad Batch," with genetically enhanced clone warriors taking on the Empire.Streaming AwaySpeaking of Star Wars, Steve talks about why he believes "Rogue One," starring Felicity Jones, is the best movie set in a g...
2021-05-1333 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #35 Diversions & Dramas"Diversions & Dramas"Like father, like daughter? Not on this episode! Kate takes the serious route, Steve the lighthearted one—meaning you're sure to hear about something that you'll like. Serial Killers, Abductees, & Ancient EvilsKate's picks fall in the serious British drama mode—a serial killer loose in Thailand ("Serpent") and an abducted young woman who escapes from captivity after 13 years ("Thirteen," starring a pre-"Killing Eve" Jodie Comer). She delves into the Netflix fantasy series "Shadow and Bone," in which a young woman with magical powers moves through a world plagu...
2021-05-0736 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #34 Get Me a Ticket for an AeroplaneGet Me a Ticket for an AeroplaneSteve and Kate travel the world in this episode, talking about stories from Florida to France, from New York City to northern Europe. We marvel at the dancing skills of Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen and question whether Mads' movie "Another Round" is as "life-affirming" as touted. ("Another Round" won the Oscar for best international feature after our recording.)Streaming Foreign FilmsSteve and Kate also explore "The Twelfth Man" (Norway), a true-story WWII thriller, and "The Intouchables" (France), an unlikely true-story buddy comedy involving a...
2021-04-3036 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #33 Do We Care About This Year's Oscars?"Do We Care About This Year's Oscars?"The coveted statuettes will be given out during a broadcast on ABC Sunday evening, April 25. Steve and Kate predict winners in major categories such as best director, actor and actress—you'll have to see if we're right. But we find ourselves less than excited about this year's nominees. Is that because the pandemic nixed the communal experience of seeing a film with a crowd in a theater, or because the nominees themselves are underwhelming?When "Mank" Doesn't Move Us"Mank," one of this ye...
2021-04-2329 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #32 The Chicago 7, The Octopus 8From Octopi to Abbie to the Sound of SilenceSteve and Kate ponder important questions in this episode: Can a man and an octopus have a meaningful friendship if it doesn't include watching the game and sharing a few beers? Also: 1, 2, 3, does Sacha Baron Cohen know what he's fighting for? And does the "Sound of Metal" still work when it's the sound of silence?We Look at Some Oscar Nominees We dish on Aaron' Sorkin's docudrama "The Trial of the Chicago 7," "Sound of Metal" (a drama about a punk...
2021-04-0630 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #31 The Cinema GuysApril's Fools'! Instead of the "Mine vs. Yours" episode we promoted—a great idea for a show we might do in the future—welcome to the Great Podcast Switcheroo. Across the country, dozens of like-minded podcasts are switching feeds today so our listeners can discover new shows they might enjoy. PopaHALLics is trading places with the Cinema Guys, listed as one of the top 5 local podcasts by Cincinnati Magazine.The Cinema Guys—Brad A. Hargis, Justin Dunn and the Cinemaiden—are three friends who love movies. In this episode, a favorite of theirs...
2021-04-0138 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #28 The "Weird" ShowEver like something before the rest of the world caught onto its merits? Steve and Kate discuss our favorite movies, TV shows and music that never went mainstream ... and we don't care if you think they're weird. We prefer to consider offbeat offerings such as "Wristcutters: A Love Story" "unique.""Is She Going to Murder Us in Our Sleep?"Kate remembers her college roommates being concerned over her fondness for the dark teen comedy "Heathers." Steve fondly recalls the crazy road comedy starring a fictional Russian band with odd haircuts and shoes, "Leningrad Cowboys Go America" (pict...
2021-03-1233 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #27 And the Meaning of Life Is ...Dad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. Steve and Kate reveal the meaning of life ... or at least several pop offerings that wrestle with that big question, each in its own way: Lily Brooks-Dalton's end(s)-of-the-Earth novel "Good Morning, Midnight," the racy British sitcom "Catastrophe" on Amazon Prime, and the acclaimed film starring Frances McDormand, "Nomadland." We also say: Shame on you, Hollywood Foreign Press Association, for giving Golden Globe nominations in exchange for expensive freebies!Other Books:"
2021-03-0528 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #26 To Infinity ... and WyomingJump in your flying car and zoom with Steve and Kate into the future! Where mining gems on a toxic planet becomes dangerous for a couple of working class Joes ("Prospect") ... where something weird is going on in a post-apocalyptic museum, we think ("Piranesi") .... and time travel isn't much fun for some German kids and their families ("Dark"). We also diss bear murderers and too tight jeans ("Longmire") and ponder country music: Why is it all about the bros, bro?Streaming:"Prospect," Netflix"Dark," Netflix "La Revolution," Netflix"Longmire," NetflixBooks:"The Once and Fu...
2021-02-2636 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #25 It's in a BookLet's slip between the pages. In this episode, Steve and Kate talk about books that sweep them away to magical skullduggery at Yale, fantastical empires, and Irish hospitals during the 1918 pandemic. We have great viewing recommendations too, from a Miami meeting of Cassius Clay, Malcolm X, Jim Brown and Sam Cooke to Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams competing in the Eurovision Song Contest. And we hear about what YOU'RE reading and watching!Books:"The Ninth House," Leigh Bardo "The Bone Shard's Daughter," Andrea Stewart"The Wintersmith," Terry Pratchett "The Pull of the Star...
2021-02-1937 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #23 Tales from the TV BeatDad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. In honor of Steve's birthday, Kate interviews her dad about his years covering pop culture for a paycheck. She's never heard most of the stories, from Audrey Hepburn to rubber guns to the only time Steve was starstruck. (You'll be surprised by the answer.)The birthday boy also compiled a bunch of his favorite songs on this week's Popahallics #23 playlist, from Adele to his favorite camp-a-billy band Southern Culture on the Skids. Here's a fun video of SCOTS doing one of our favorite tunes live, complete with a...
2021-02-0537 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #22 Fashion, Music—and Murder!Dad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. Steve and Kate discuss fashion at President Joe Biden's inauguration—what's with all the monochromatic style? Did Garth Brooks live out the lyrics of "Friends in Low Places" by showing up in boots at a black tie affair? We also delve into how one witch is stuck in the relationship equivalent of "Groundhog Day." Our topics:Streaming:"Broadchurch," Netflix"Grantchester," Amazon Prime"Lupin," Netflix"The Durrells in Corfu," Amazon PrimeBooks:"A Witch in Time," Constance SayersMusic: Saint MotelFeist, "Bad to Eac...
2021-01-2933 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #21 Turn the PageDad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. New year, new president, new beers. Steve and Kate kick 2020 out the door and turn the page to a brighter, happier 2021—we hope. If you want to savor some good books, TV, and/or music, or just need a fun diversion from that darn pandemic, we have great recommendations!Books:"The World That We Knew," Alice Hoffman"The Dark Tower" series, Stephen King "The Guest List," Lucy Foley'"Orchard Blues," Stuart Woods"Dead Man's Walk," Larry McMurtry Streaming:British Vogue's "In the Bag," YouTubeAmerican Vogu...
2021-01-2230 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #20 Pop Fun in '21"Pop Fun in '21!"Is it wrong for Pixar to create a rare animated black lead—and then have him stuck inside a cat for much of the movie "Soul"? How historically accurate IS "Bridgerton"? And why can't Liam Neeson remember who he is?! Steve and Kate discuss these burning questions and more as PopaHALLics kicks off its second season!We talk about:"Soul," Disney Plus "Bridgerton," Netflix"Unknown," Netflix"The Spanish Princess," PrimeDiscover great new and old music with our Popahallics #20 Playlist. We feature several selections from "Playing Chess," a fabulous alb...
2021-01-1535 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #19 It's the End of the (Year) As We Know ItDad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. This has been a tough year, but Steve and Kate express gratitude for certain parts of 2020 in our season finale. We also talk about our hopes for 2021, as well as our current pop culture faves, from "Black Ballerina" and "Created in Darkness by Troubled Americans" to Vince Vaughn's great performance as a teenage girl. (Seriously!) Movies and TV:The horror comedy "Freaky""The Crown""In the Dark""Black Ballerinas"Books:"Created in Darkness by Troubled Americans," Dave Eggers"Born a Crime: Stories from a So...
2020-12-1844 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #17 Happy HALLidays!Dad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink - specifically, the holiday movies and music they return to again and again, as well as a few they avoid like coal in a Christmas stocking. Steve explains his soft spot for the rude, crude "Bad Santa" and - alert the media! - admits he was wrong about something's merits. Kate hopes that last Christmas was the last time she had to hear "Last Christmas" by Wham! We'll clue you in to some yuletide offerings that will help you have a holly, jolly Christmas!We discuss:"...
2020-12-0340 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #16 Wild About HarryDad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink—specifically do clothes un-make the man? In this episode, Steve and Kate tackle the controversy over singer Harry Styles' gender-bending photo spread in Vogue magazine. This leads to a discussion of androgyny in rock music, from Prince to Elvis. Dude looks like a lady ... or does he? And why should we care?Our beers this episode:Revolution Brewing's Anti-Hero IPAGuinness Extra Stout All our music is by Mike BodeGet in touch: popahallicspodcast@gmail.comFacebook and Instagram: popahallicspodcastTwitter: popahallics
2020-11-2738 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #15 My Favorite BondDad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. In honor of Sean Connery's passing on Oct. 31, Steve and Kate discuss who's their favorite Bond, James Bond. This "yours vs. mine" episode has plenty of fun Bond trivia, from author Ian Fleming's inspiration for the secret agent's name to the best Bond picked by ... all the Bond actors! It's a podcast best shaken, not stirred.Our beers this episode, both from Floyd County Brewing (Indiana): Imperial IPA HopdalorianDunkelweizen Albus DunkelmoreGet in touch:popahallicpodcast@gmail.comFacebook and Instagram: popahallicspodastTwitter: po...
2020-11-2030 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #14 Pop Goes the Election!Dad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. In this episode, Steve and Kate talk about dealing with presidential election anxiety through pop culture fare, including :"The Queen's Gambit""Life in Squares""A Discovery of Witches" TV series"Bob's Burgers""A Cabin at the End of the World" novelMusic (Harry Styles, Taylor Swift, the Ladybugs) as "comfort food" Kate also admits to former pop culture favorites that embarrass her now.We'd love to hear about pop culture you used to like that embarrasses you now.popahallicspodcast@gmail.comFollow us:
2020-11-1333 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #12 Ready or Not!Dad and daughter seek out hidden and not-so-hidden treasures in movies, TV shows, and books:Movies:Ready or NotBooksmartBuffaloedWhere Did You Go, Bernadette?The Witches, Remake and OriginalThe Blackcoat's DaughterTV Shows:The MandalorianVictoriaChilling Adventures of SabrinaBooks:"The Invited," Jennifer McMahon"Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype""The Alice Network," Kate QuinnOur beers this episode:Bells, Larry's Latest Juicy IPAFalls City, Onward hoppy brown aleAll our music is by Mike BodeGet in touch: popahallicspodcast@gmail...
2020-10-3039 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #11 Happy HALL-o-ween!Dad and daughter dish over popular culture. In a special Halloween episode, Steve and Kate talk about pop culture that has scared them over the years ... and get frightened by something that happens DURING the podcast. Wooooo ...We discuss some frightening experiences over the years with:The movie "Labyrinth," with David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly"Halloween," with Jamie Lee Curtis"The Ring"Stephen King's novel "Salem's Lot" and the movie "The Shining""The Autopsy of Jane Doe""The Haunting of Bly Manor"Hammer film "Brides of Dracula"story "The Yellow Wall-Paper"On a non-Halloween note:
2020-10-2336 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #10 I'll Take Trivia for $100Dad and daughter dish on pop culture over a drink. Steve and Kate celebrate their 10th show with a wide-ranging trivia contest with questions about movies, music, TV, and more. Think you know pop culture? Play along!Our beers this episode:Elysium Space Dust IPA Breckinridge Brewery's Avalanche Amber AleFollow us on Facebook and Instagram Popahallics PodcastFollow us on Twitter PopahallicsEmail us: popahallicspodcast@gmail.com Our theme, bumper, and special music is by Mike Bode
2020-10-0937 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #9 "Hello, Cleveland!"Dad and daughter dish about pop culture over a drink. In this episode (named for a Spinal Tap line), Steve, Kate and guests talk about their favorite live concerts ever. We also explore why a British magazine called Shawn Mendes the "Generation Z Springsteen." Wait - isn't Bruce Springsteen Bruce Springsteen?! Our guests are Tricia O'Connor, Katie Skeehan, Mary Skeehan, and Olivia Makk.
2020-10-0227 min
PopaHALLicsPopaHALLics #8 I Wanna Be a SpacemanDad and daughter dish on pop culture while enjoying a drink. In this episode, Steve and Kate discuss:TV"Space Force""The Office""Outlander""Enola Holmes""#Alive""Normal People"BOOKS"You Were Born for This: Astrology for Radical Self Acceptance""The Expanse" sci-fi series, beginning with "Leviathan Wakes"MUSICRoots performer Pokey LaFargePuddles the ClownMisterWivesThe Diddy BopsThe Spotify mixtape of songs related to this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/34YzXqdGzgjQioTbdGZADc?si=E6aha-XTTdGaae4sNHUznQFind pop quizzes, pop history moments, and other fun trivia on Twitter...
2020-09-2536 min