Pop Culture Happy Hour: On Sequels And Skipping 'Independence Day'
We thought we were going to see Independence Day: Resurgence. In this episode, we dive into why most of us didn't and we take a raucous quiz on sequel titles.
Arts
'The Purge: Election Year' Offers A Vote Of No Competence
The third film in the Purge franchise once again binges on ugly, incoherent set-pieces that glorify our basest instincts.
Spielberg's 'The BFG' Parallels Another Friendly Outcast
The BFG is the new Steven Spielberg movie based off the Roald Dahl book. It's about a girl and a friendly giant triumphing over bullies and adversity. And it's got something familiar about it, too.
This Shakespeare Reconstruction Sets 'Merchant' In Post-Civil War D.C.
In District Merchants, Shylock is still Jewish, but half of the other characters are freed slaves. The playwright says he was inspired but a reference to slavery in Shakespeare's original text.
Academy Of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Invites New Members
NPR's Kelly McEvers talks to UCLA professor Darnell Hunt about the new class of members on the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.
Le Carre Adaptation Takes 'Our Kind of Traitor' On A Tour Of The Underworld
A professor (Ewan McGregor) gets drawn into a seedy and violent world of criminal intrigue by a boisterous Mafioso (Stellan Skarsgard).
Faith And Fear In A Story Of 'Innocents'
Inspired by real events, The Innocents visits a convent in 1945 where a doctor finds herself unexpectedly treating pregnant nuns.
Floppy Ears And Green Gas From One 'BFG'
Steven Spielberg directs an adaptation of the Roald Dahl book that goes long on sentiment and on ... well, length, but finds charm in its deployment of Mark Rylance as the CGI giant's voice.
Encore: 'Future Shock' 40 Years Later
Future Shock by Alvin Toffler was a huge sensation when it was published in 1970. The book perfectly captured the angst of that time and prepared society for more changes to come.
In Prison, The Passion That Drove A Yogurt-Maker To Arson Still Burns
The yogurt entrepreneur who set fire to his factory remains in prison, but he's in better spirits now. "He's dreaming again," says his wife.