Our first 81 episodes are what we now consider APNC 1.0 with our original crew: Opie, Pete, Kevin, Alex, and later, David. Through the onset of COVID and life changes, the podcast began to evolve. It was the end of an era, but we loved this crew and the memories we made. You'll notice that our earliest episodes are not on YouTube. The addition of video was never in the plans, but came to life as a surprise side effect of COVID. Going into 2022, Pete and Kevin took the show in a new direction after losing the rest of the original crew. They found their groove almost immediately with appearances from Andrew and Andy, who immediately became show regulars. Throughout what is now considered APNC 2.0, hosting has waffled back and forth between Pete and Kevin, and the cast fluctuates between any combination of the 4, and sometimes even their friend Kim, but the content is always flowing. 2022 has been a very consistent year for the gang and they look to keep it rolling into 2023 and beyond.
This episode of All Pop, No Culture covers three major topics: Masters of the Universe, the Euphoria series finale, and the horror breakout Backrooms. Kevin reviews Masters of the Universe, calling it a fun but flawed movie that will play much better for longtime fans of the original cartoon than for newcomers. The conversation explores tone, nostalgia, adaptation choices, and why some comic-book properties feel locked to the audiences that first loved them. Andrew then breaks down the Euphoria ending, talking through the uneven start of Season 3, the emotional weight added by Angus Cloud's real-life death, and why the final stretch still manages to bring the series to a meaningful close. He also highlights several standout performances and explains why the ending feels true to the show's core themes. Kevin closes with a detailed review of Backrooms, discussing its psychological horror, Kane Parsons' influence, the theater experience, and why the film feels like the start of a franchise. The episode also includes a sharp discussion about the Obsession pay controversy and what it reveals about indie filmmaking, entitlement, career strategy, and how creative people actually build momentum.
6/10/26 • 90:03
This episode of All Pop, No Culture welcomes special guest Eric before diving into three major topics: Mandalorian and Grogu, The Boys series finale, and the horror breakout Obsession. Kevin reviews Mandalorian and Grogu, calling it a fun and accessible Star Wars movie even if it doesn't feel essential to the larger story. The conversation expands into Pedro Pascal's current run, Star Wars movie strategy, and whether this should have just been another season of TV. The main discussion centers on The Boys finale, with all three hosts debating whether the show truly stuck the landing. They compare the live-action series to the comics, talk about the pacing and politics of the final season, and break down Homelander, Butcher, Kimiko, Frenchie, and the setup for future spin-offs. The episode closes with a strong conversation about Obsession, a horror film that both Kevin and Andrew found brutal, unsettling, and highly effective. They discuss the central performance, the monkey's-paw-style premise, and why the film is connecting with audiences in a big way.
5/27/26 • 102:07
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is a full conversation about The Boys heading into its series finale. Kevin and Andrew tackle the backlash surrounding the final season, the complaints that it has been too slow or too light on action, and whether the finale can still make the season feel worthwhile in hindsight. A major focus is Frenchie's death, which both hosts see as one of the strongest and most emotionally earned moments of the season. They discuss Frenchie's role as one of the last pure-hearted characters in the series, his relationship with Kimiko, and what his sacrifice means for the show's emotional endgame. They also break down possible endings for Homelander, Ryan, Butcher, Hughie, and Starlight, debating whether the best ending is tragic, ambiguous, or full-on apocalyptic. The episode closes with bonus audio from pre-show banter touching on Cowboy Bebop, upcoming movies, horror recommendations, and the strange staying power of trashy reality TV.
5/21/26 • 68:38
This episode of All Pop, No Culture starts with Lauren's review of The Devil Wears Prada 2, which turns out to be a stronger sequel than expected. The conversation covers Anne Hathaway's return as Andy Sachs, Meryl Streep's more vulnerable Miranda Priestly, the fashion-world politics, and how the new movie updates its themes for the digital era. Andrew then delivers a passionate review of Michael, the new Michael Jackson biopic, praising Jaafar Jackson's performance and arguing that the film succeeds on its own terms even if critics seem hung up on what it leaves for a future sequel. Kevin and Lauren join in on the debate around biopics, controversy, and whether critics are approaching the movie through the wrong lens. Kevin closes the main review section with a disappointed take on Beef Season 2, explaining why the new cast and story never quite match the energy, humor, or emotional impact of the first season. The episode also includes quick thoughts on From Season 4, Euphoria Season 3, and a preview of the movies and shows still coming later this year.
5/8/26 • 91:34
This episode of All Pop, No Culture covers three major TV conversations: DTF, Invincible Season 4, and The Boys. Kevin and Andrew start with a full spoiler discussion of DTF, focusing on its ending, its portrayal of depression and loneliness, David Harbour's standout performance, and the ways the show turns a mystery into something much more personal and tragic. They then jump into Invincible Season 4, especially Episode 7, which they argue may be the best episode the show has done so far. They talk Thragg, Nolan, Mark, the destruction of Viltrum, the voice cast, and why the series has become one of the strongest animated shows running right now. The episode wraps with a check-in on The Boys, including A-Train's arc, Homelander's unraveling, who may survive the ending, and why the show feels like it's headed toward the exact kind of bloodbath it has always promised.
4/29/26 • 91:22
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is a full deep dive into Ted Lasso — from first impressions to favorite episodes, biggest character arcs, and why the show works as something much deeper than a comedy. Andrew finally finishes the series and joins Kevin and Pete to unpack what makes it so emotionally satisfying. They discuss Jamie Tartt's redemption, Roy Kent's emotional depth, Rebecca's evolution, Nate's rise and fall, Colin's storyline, Dr. Sharon's role in Ted's growth, and why Higgins may secretly be one of the most important characters in the entire show. They also talk about the finale, the Amsterdam and Christmas episodes, the weekly release model, and what Season 4 could look like with the women's team. If you love Ted Lasso, this is a full-series appreciation episode. If you haven't watched it yet, this conversation may finally push you over the line.
4/16/26 • 120:47
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is a full breakdown of Project Hail Mary, including a movie-only perspective, an audiobook perspective, and a book-to-film comparison. Andrew praises the film's IMAX experience, emotional core, and the bond between Ryland and Rocky. Salony shares what worked visually and emotionally, but also what felt rushed or simplified from the audiobook — especially pacing and character dynamics. Kevin digs into what the adaptation changes: how the "memory" structure affects the story, what science and stakes were minimized, and why the Ryland/Rocky partnership is grounded in mutual respect and complementary brilliance. The episode also touches on the return of movie theaters when films are actually good, spoiler culture in the AI era, fandom backlash, and why Project Hail Mary could thrive as a limited series.
4/3/26 • 111:23
This week, Kevin and Andrew go full pop-culture pinball: Transformers potentially getting a darker creative swing, Invincible Season 3's best arcs (and why the villain work is so effective), and a brutal Paradise Season 2 episode that hits harder than expected. We also check out HBO Max's DTF St. Louis (episodes 1–2) — a mystery-thriller where nobody feels reliable — plus a quick update on Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2, a tease for an upcoming Ted Lasso deep dive, hype for Project Hail Mary, and a quick pulse-check on One Piece Season 2.
3/18/26 • 99:34
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is built around two major TV conversations: Monarch (Season 2 kickoff) and Paradise. Kevin and Andrew break down how Monarch Season 2 feels tighter and more focused than Season 1, with a stronger horror-leaning tone, clearer momentum, and mythology that finally starts to pay off (Axis Mundi and time-dilation mechanics). They also dig into character focus—why the adult core is carrying the series and why the "kids" are working better this time. They then shift into a spoiler-light recommendation for Paradise, covering its hook, timeline structure, character-driven storytelling, and why it feels like a show with an actual endgame plan. The episode also includes a continuing Ted Lasso "converted skeptic" conversation, a quick Apple TV+ quality rant, a sci-fi deep dive comparing For All Mankind and The Expanse (including books vs show).
3/6/26 • 78:15
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is a wide-ranging pop-culture hang: upcoming shows and movies, comfort-TV nostalgia, and a surprisingly deep dive into the Predator/Aliens franchise evolution. In a rare look into the pre-show discussions, Kevin and Andrew talk what's coming next on their watchlists and reflect on how modern viewing habits changed the way we experience TV. The back half becomes a full franchise conversation: character-driven storytelling, found-family energy, and what makes modern entries work beyond action. They debate whether Predator should remain a relentless hunter or evolve into something more complex, while agreeing the Alien universe still delivers the cleanest "pure villain" DNA in sci-fi horror. Andrew then quickly sells Kevin on Season 3 of Invincible. The episode ends on nostalgic notes with thoughts on a classic family-friendly reboot and what it means to bring comfort TV back in a chaotic era.
2/19/26 • 71:42
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is a deep dive into Wonder Man, the Marvel series that sidesteps traditional superhero tropes in favor of a character-first story about passion, vulnerability, and artistic identity. Kevin and Andrew discuss why the show works as a meta character study, praising Yahya Abdul-Mateen II's performance as Simon and Ben Kingsley's return as Trevor Slattery. They break down Simon's transformation, the authenticity of the Los Angeles acting world, and the standout "Doorman" episode as a sharp metaphor for the actor/agent grind. The conversation expands into MCU future talk—how the universe evolves after its biggest legacy stars, which characters could carry the next era, and where Wonder Man might appear next. They wrap with thoughts on upcoming live-action adaptations and a candid discussion about AI's growing impact on creativity and entertainment.
2/6/26 • 59:47
This episode of All Pop, No Culture covers three wildly different stories with one common thread: power, vulnerability, and what people become under pressure. Kevin and Lauren review Send Help, a Sam Raimi-directed survival thriller starring Dylan O'Brien and Rachel McAdams. They break down its shifting power dynamic, corporate toxicity bleeding into personal relationships, and how the film turns trust, gender roles, and emotional manipulation into its real danger. They then shift to Broadway with Maybe Happy Ending, a warm, kid-friendly musical about two retired helper robots in Seoul that explores AI, emotion, and what it means for something "programmed" to still feel real. Finally, they discuss If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, led by Rose Byrne, a dark and potentially triggering film about a mother coping with a sick child. Kevin shares personal perspective on parenting through medical uncertainty and the importance of support communities.
2/3/26 • 59:43
The show producer has not yet provided a description for this episode.
1/28/26 • 109:06
This episode of All Pop, No Culture kicks off with a quick look at what drove a spike in views last week, then launches into a packed review lineup. Andrew shares his reaction to 28 Years Later, including what makes it feel gritty, intense, and true to the franchise's DNA. Kevin and Lauren discuss People You Meet on Vacation, a romantic drama about a relationship that evolves over multiple summers while life complicates the timing. The crew then jumps into Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, debating the reception of a newer series while still appreciating its characters, tone, and chemistry. Andrew checks in on his progress with Star Trek: Discovery, and Kevin explains the context behind The Burn. Lauren spotlights The Pitt, a medical drama structured around a single long ER shift, and closes with an off-Broadway review of Data, a tech-and-surveillance story that taps into current conversations about AI, morality, and privacy.
1/21/26 • 88:12
This episode of All Pop, No Culture packs in big TV finales, under-the-radar films, and a surprisingly thoughtful conversation about addiction stories and why some of them hit like a truck. Kevin and Andrew react to the Stranger Things series finale with an 8/10, breaking down what worked, what felt underpowered, and why fan expectations make ending a beloved show nearly impossible. Lauren spotlights the 2016 film Being Charlie, an addiction drama directed by Rob Reiner and starring Nick Robinson and Cary Elwes, which sparks a wider discussion about realism in addiction films (Requiem for a Dream, The Basketball Diaries, Trainspotting) and the real-world dangers of prescription drug culture. The crew also touches on remote work life, recommends Silo, debates the new season of Fallout (including release strategy and pacing), and closes with Lauren's rundown of Heated Rivalry, a queer hockey romance about rivals navigating pressure, identity, and ambition. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
1/15/26 • 117:01
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is fully dedicated to Stranger Things Season 5 — the final chapter of one of the biggest shows of the decade. Kevin, Mia, Dillon, Andrew, and Salony share their reactions to the season, examining the highs, lows, and emotional beats that defined the finale. The team discusses the acting, pacing, and visual changes that shaped the final stretch of episodes, as well as the climactic confrontation with Vecna. They explore each character's ending, including Hopper's emotional shift, Will and Mike's evolving dynamic, Nancy and Robin's arcs, and Eleven's mysterious fate. The group tackles theories about whether Eleven survived, the deeper symbolism of Mike's final monologue, and the possibility of future spin-offs. They also reflect on the cultural experience of watching the finale in theaters, Netflix's hybrid release strategy, and how Season 5 fits into the larger legacy of the series. Whether you're a longtime fan or diving in for the finale, this episode delivers a thoughtful, detailed, and emotional discussion of how Stranger Things brought its era-defining story to a close. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
1/5/26 • 118:26
The show producer has not yet provided a description for this episode.
12/31/25 • 108:44
This episode of All Pop, No Culture is packed with movies, TV finales, Broadway shows, comedy specials, and heartfelt moments. The crew begins with reactions to the new Avatar film before moving into a full breakdown of the Welcome to Derry season finale—covering its emotional storytelling, character development, and how it expands the IT universe. Lauren reviews Is This Thing On, reflecting on its themes of divorce, self-rediscovery, and stand-up comedy. The discussion includes a tribute to the late Rob Reiner, whose impact on film and television shaped generations of storytelling. Andrew shares his thoughts on Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable, a politically charged and introspective comedy special. Kevin follows with a review of J. Kelly, George Clooney's new Netflix dramedy exploring fame, regret, and family. The episode wraps with two Broadway reviews—Marjorie Prime and Bug—before Kevin spotlights Landman, a gripping Taylor Sheridan drama about oil, power, and personal redemption. If you enjoy thoughtful pop culture conversations across genres, this episode delivers a ton to dive into. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
12/24/25 • 100:56
This episode of All Pop, No Culture spans prestige cinema, teen horror, Broadway, and one of the most controversial documentaries of the year. Lauren shares her thoughts on Hamnet, a beautifully crafted period drama receiving awards buzz, while Kevin reviews Five Nights at Freddy's 2, a chaotic but entertaining entry in the video-game franchise. They discuss upcoming game adaptations, the emotional depth of Hulu's Normal People, and the rising careers of Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones. Kevin breaks down the new documentaries about Sean Combs, exploring their depiction of his early life, legal troubles, music-industry conflicts, and the long-standing tensions between Diddy, Suge Knight, and Biggie Smalls. The episode wraps with Broadway impressions of Art, plus a strong recommendation for Peacock's All Her Fault, a gripping thriller led by standout performances from Sarah Snook and Dakota Fanning. If you're into film, TV, true-crime docs, or culture-heavy discussions, this episode has something for everyone.
12/12/25 • 93:59
The show producer has not yet provided a description for this episode.
12/3/25 • 120:08
This week on All Pop, No Culture, we dig into a wide spread of movies, musicals, podcasts, and horror TV—basically everything lighting up your feed (or should be). Kevin kicks things off with a review of One Battle After Another, a character-driven drama with sharp performances and a slow-burn emotional core. Andrew throws in director deep cuts, trivia, and a few wild personal stories to round out the discussion. We shift gears into true-crime meets Hollywood with a breakdown of Allison Mack's vulnerable, complicated interview on Michael Rosenbaum's podcast. The group looks at her time in the Nxivm cult, her prison experience, the contradictions in her public story, and the surprising relationship she formed after her release. Lauren brings the energy back up with her trip to see the Broadway musical Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York—a quirky, heartfelt rom-com on stage that sparks a full-scale debate on why musical adaptations either soar (Wicked, Hamilton) or crash spectacularly (Cats, West Side Story). Kevin then reviews the indie horror film Shelby Oaks, breaking down what works (atmosphere) and what really doesn't (genre chaos, FX overload). The crew compares it to classics like Blair Witch and Paranormal Activity while debating whether it's worth a rental or a "wait until streaming" kind of watch. We wrap with a deep dive into HBO's IT: Welcome to Derry, exploring its historical layers, lore, Pennywise reveals, character arcs, and how it all ties back to Stephen King's universe. With Stranger Things Season 5 on the horizon, the hype is already building for next week's episode. If you're into film analysis, musical theater takes, true-crime commentary, horror reviews, and unfiltered pop-culture conversations—you're in the right place. What We Cover One Battle After Another movie review Allison Mack interview breakdown (Nxivm + Rosenbaum podcast) Broadway's Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York Why musical adaptations succeed or fail Shelby Oaks horror review Found-footage classics vs. modern indie horror HBO's IT: Welcome to Derry episode 4 Stephen King universe connections Stranger Things Season 5 hype As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture Hashtags #AllPopNoCulture #MovieReview #TVReview #PopCulturePodcast #OneBattleAfterAnother #AllisonMack #MichaelRosenbaum #Nxivm #ShelbyOaks #BroadwayMusicals #TwoStrangersCarryACakeAcrossNewYork #WelcomeToDerry #StephenKing #HBOOriginals #HorrorReview #StreamingRecommendations #MusicalTheatre #FoundFootageHorror #PodcastDiscussion
11/26/25 • 102:01
This week on All Pop, No Culture, we dive into a loaded mix of TV, film, and comedy—breaking down everything from nostalgic favorites to brand-new premieres shaking up the streaming world. We kick things off with the new Eddie Murphy Netflix documentary and the legacy of one of comedy's most influential performers. We jump into the anthology series Soulmates, compare it to Black Mirror, and unpack two new mystery thrillers: Malice and All Her Fault. Lauren covers the Dancing with the Stars 20th anniversary special, while Kevin and Andrew swap stories about comedy shows, reality TV, and a pair of standout pilots. We close with a deep look at Welcome to Derry, exploring its scares, character work, and surprising historical layers. If you love TV breakdowns, movie reviews, comedy deep dives, and off-the-rails pop culture banter, you're in the right place. What We Cover Eddie Murphy's documentary & career legacy '80s classics vs. modern Eddie Soulmates and tech-driven storytelling Black Mirror ratings + episode talk Reviews: Malice & All Her Fault Dancing with the Stars at 20 years HBO's Welcome to Derry Comedy shows, reality TV, and more As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture Perfect For Fans Of TV recaps, streaming recommendations, pop culture commentary, comedy history, Netflix & HBO discussions, and new-show discovery.
11/19/25 • 108:21
The gang's all here, for the second week in a row! This week they cover Bugonia, Plur1bus, Oh, Mary!, Frankenstein, and the Stranger Things Season 5 sneak peek. As the show starts, Kevin immediately passes off the reins to Lauren, who saw Bugonia in theaters this week. It's another Yorgos Lanthimos/Emma Stone joint and it's as weird as you'd expect. And if Lauren is to be believed, possibly weirder. The story follows two less than brilliant men who kidnap a powerful CEO, played by Stone. They are convinced she's an alien and the madness ensues from there. It's a bizarre premise that flirts with Sci-Fi in new and interesting ways. It may not be a "must watch" but it sounds like a fascinating watch nonetheless. Kevin and Andrew use the sci-fi bit to transition into the new, very hyped, show, Plur1bus on Apple TV+. This is from Vince Gilligan, creator of X-Files, Breaking Bad, and Better Call Saul fame and it stars Rhea Seahorn from BCS. The show has released to incredible reviews nearly across the board, so you can just imagine Kevin and Andrew would be loving it… But you'd be wrong… After 2 episodes, the guys are genuinely confused about the hype, finding that the show lacks the character depth early on to equal the hype so far. That being said, they appear to be in the minority, so if you've watched it and loved it, tell us why in the comments. We're dying to understand! Next up, we start moving towards things the gang really enjoyed. Lauren takes us to Broadway with the show, Oh, Mary!, a very wild what-if story about Mary Todd Lincoln. It's very progressive and at times over the top, but in the best of ways. This show does require a very open mind and imagination, but it is an absolute TON of fun and a must watch if you aren't the overly sensitive type. Keeping with the trend of things that are fantastic, Kevin watched the new Guillermo del Toro film, Frankenstein, on Netflix. It stars Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Walz. The genius that he is, Kevin has never read the original book, but he does swear this film feels like it must be a faithful adaptation. As with so much of del Toro's work, it's a visual feast and the acting is magnificent. It's on the longer side, at about 2 and a half hours, but it goes by quick and is absolutely worth the watch. To close out the show, Andrew brings up the sneak peek at the first 5 minutes of the new season of Stranger Things. They agree that the story looks strong and it will be a great finish to the story, but Kevin finds himself a little let down by the effects in the trailer. Also, it's important to know, some of the discussion around the show centers around Kevin's (losing?) debate with a high school student about the second and third seasons. He's been relentlessly bullied but he's staying strong. (That's not really true, but he's being a baby, so go with it). As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
11/12/25 • 107:37
The gang's all here, and this week they cover IT: Welcome to Derry, Nobody Wants This Season 2, A return to A House of Dynamite, Regretting You, and The Perfect Neighbor. We open the show jumping right into the hottest new series, IT: Welcome to Derry. Kevin and Andrew have both watched the first episode, and Kevin's seen the second. Both guys have enjoyed the show so far, and Kevin keeps the second episode talk pretty spoiler-free. But the show itself is BRUTAL. It is like Stranger Things dialed up to (pun intended) Eleven. If horror is your thing, this is an absolute must-watch. Taking a break from the absolute massacre that is the opening of IT, Lauren talks about the latest season of Nobody Wants This on Netflix. It stars Adam Brody and Kristen Bell as an on-again, off-again couple dealing with the strains of a potential interfaith relationship. That makes it sound very dramatic, but it really is a lot of fun. The leads are great, but a lot of credit goes to the supporting cast, too. It's a well-rounded show that does risk getting tropey if they don't get creative with the 3rd season. That being said, this one (and the first one) is worth a watch. After some talk about things happy and fun, Andrew takes us back to last week's episode for a minute to talk about A House of Dynamite. His timeline was hit by several people who absolutely hated the ending, so the guys had to clear the air as to what this film was truly about. Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. And now that it's been a week, the guys can be a little more spoilery. So if you haven't watched it yet, and you should, maybe pause the show, watch it, then come back. Next up, Lauren talks about the new film, Regretting You. It stars Mason Thames, McKenna Grace, Allison Williams, and Dave Franco. It's not an entirely unformulaic romance film, but it does have its share of little twists and turns that keep it interesting. It may not blow you away, but if it's your type of film, you're likely to really enjoy it. Kevin closes out the show, reluctantly, by quickly discussing the new Netflix documentary, The Perfect Neighbor. It's an interesting film, as all the footage is either from interrogation rooms or, more often, body cam footage. It's the tragic story of a racially charged shooting in Florida and how it ultimately ties into the Stand Your Ground laws. It's fascinating and heartbreaking, but an interesting story worth watching. Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
11/5/25 • 98:14
It's just Kevin and Andrew this week and they have a tight and shockingly relevant episode. They cover the finale of Gen V, A House of Dynamite, and The Hand That Rocks The Cradle (2025). The guys jump right into it this episode the series finale of Gen V. This season was an improvement over an already solid first season and a great lead in to the final season of The Boys. They discuss the big reveals, as well as listener Mike's great catch early in the season. The season had a ton of great character growth and great twists. It will be very interesting to see who shows up in The Boys (probably everyone, at least for a bit?) and who can actually go toe to toe with Homelander. This season left us very hungry for what comes next! Next up, Kevin talks about the new Netflix movie, A House of Dynamite. This is very strong political thriller starring seemingly everyone. The plot, the story of an unknown missile launched at the US, feels far too gritty and plausible. The guys discuss Kathryn Bigelow's body of work and what she might be saying with this one. That said, this is an absolute must watch. Kevin closes the show with a bit of a stinker in the remake of The Hand That Rocks The Cradle. This one stars two great actresses in Maika Monroe and Mary Elizabeth Winsted. Sadly they are wasted on this film. It's an hour long slog which then does manage to throw in a great twist, but far too late. Then the rest of the film is a predictable snowball to the end. If you're itching for this story, you're better off watching the original. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
10/29/25 • 85:41
It's a weird one this week. Lauren is here for a quick rundown of Roofman, but her technical difficulties cute her a hair short. Then Kevin and Andrew run with Tron: Ares, The Conjuring: Last Rites, Black Phone 2, and I Like Me. Lauren had a chance to get out to the theater this week and, despite needing to hop off the podcast early this week, gives us a pretty great rundown of the movie. It's based on a true story and stars Channing Tatum as an almost lovable criminal sho makes camp inside a Toys R Us while on the run from the police. As you'd expectm the film takes some liberties with true events, but it's very close to fact and Tatum gives what might be the performance of his career. It seems to deserve all of the praise it's been getting, so get out there and catch it if you can! After the internet deems Lauren's time done for the evening, the mic is passed to Andrew who reviews Tron: Ares. Here's the thing… it's really not as bad as it is being made out to be. Is it perfect? No. Is it better than Legacy? Probably? It's hard to say for sure, but it's certainly got more going for it than the recent press would suggest. That said, the biggest letdown is the lead, played by Jared Leto, which never helps a film succeed. That being said, if you enjoyed the first two Tron movies, you might really enjoy this one. Sticking with sequels that are less than stellar (though this time more in quality than just reviews), Kevin discusses The Conjuring: Last Rites. This film is a perfect example of what Roofman avoided. The longer this franchise has gone on, the further it's strayed from the facts. It even manages to paint the Warren's (played by Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson) as incredibly kind and giving, glossing over some truly terrible parts of their past. On top of that, the haunting used for this film is so vastly different from the original story, including a conjuring mirror (the actual name) that was not involved at all. This movie feels more like a cash grab than a sequel and is really only worth watching if you're looking to complete the film series. Andrew starts to right the ship with his review of Black Phone 2. This one is the best film of the 3 sequels reviewed so far and definitely keeps the ball rolling from the first film. We lean more into the supernatural with this one, but it ups the drama and really does a great job drawing you in. The performances are all solid and we are given a return of a great villain. Kevin's fears have all been assuaged and he is definitely excited to catch this when it streams. The guys close the show out on a light note, discussing the new documentary about John Candy, I Like Me. If you were not alive or under a rock, then maybe, somehow, you don't know who John Candy is. but for anyone else, this doc is essential viewing. It's a great telling of the life of a wonderful man, told by those who knew him the best. It's the story of struggle, success, love, and sadness. There isn't a ton that we can say that the doc can't say better, so if you have Prime, go watch this right away. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
10/22/25 • 94:00
It's just Kevin and Lauren this week and, despite Andrew being a big fibber and not showing up, they manage a solid episode. They talk about Alice in Borderland, Monster: The Ed Gein Story, The Four Seasons, Peacemaker Season 2, and The Queen of Versailles. Much like you, we thought that a week off would give Andrew time to come back to us, but oh no… So Lauren is left to kick off the show to talk about the latest season of Alice in Borderland. In a way, it's more of the same, but that's not necessarily a good thing, based on how the previous season ended. There are some fun games, but this feels like a cash grab by Netflix, which leaves a bad taste in Lauren's mouth. Speaking of things on Netflix that aren't delicious… Kevin watched Monster: The Ed Gein Story, so you don't have to. If you don't know, Ed Gein is the inspiration for characters like Norman Bates, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Hannibal Lecter. Unfortunately, this telling of his story is so over the top and over-sensationalized, that it's just really hard to watch. And not in the fun, "this horror movie is so scary" kind of way. Funny enough, Charlie Hunnam does do a great job of becoming this character. The overall presentation is just lacking. Because they apparently only have Netflix to watch this week, Lauren discusses the new show The Four Seasons. It has a start studded cast, including Will Forte, Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and Colman Domingo. It's a show about these 4 characters and their significant others and the way their relationship all ebb and flow over the course of 4 separate seasons. It's touching at times, and funny at times, and all in all, Lauren enjoyed it enough to be interested in the upcoming season 2. Finally, escaping the prison that is Netflix, Kevin hops over to HBO to discuss the second (and final?) season of Peacemaker. It's a monumental growth season for Peacemaker, as he has some immense issues to deal with. Where this show shines this season is when we get to see all of the trials and tribulations and just how broken he is through it all. And then the way the season ends for him is just wild. And there are some incredible things set up for the future of the DCU going forward, so if you aren't aware, listen to this bit, as Kevin breaks some of them down. Lauren closes out the show by outclassing Kevin and heading over to Broadway. She managed to get tickets to the preview of The Queen of Versailles, starring Kristin Chenoweth. The book is by the creator of Wicked and with Chenoweth in tow, that sounds like a masterpiece waiting to happen, right? Well, maybe not… Lauren breaks down some of the issues with the show and her surprise at how underwhelmed she was. It still has time to level out, though, and it could become something special still. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
10/15/25 • 97:31
It's just Kevin and Andrew this week, and it's a fun one. The guys talk Marvel Zombies, the Alien: Earth finale, the season premiere of Gen V and Wayward, with all of that book ended by some wonderful tangents!! We give you a rare look into what happens before we start recording a show, which is usually just senseless babbling. This time, though, the conversation was productive so it went into the show! Talking about a show that is well over 20 years old could come across as dated, but Battlestar Galactica is a master class in storytelling, character building, and budget management. Honestly, if you haven't seen it before, you owe it to yourself to give it a watch. Get past the sci-fi-ness of it and settle into the DEEP social story. You will not be disappointed. Getting into more current content, Kevin talks about the first two episodes of the animated series, Marvel Zombies. It's a big swing to take, and it could be argued that they whiffed a bit. It's beautiful and gory, but a lot of the voice acting misses the mark and that story could be more adult, but leans into silliness at times. Think of it like the MCU version of Shazam. There's potential, and it's not bad, but it's not as good as it could be. Next up, the guys move into things that kind of kicked butt and talk about the Alien: Earth finale. Some of the perdictions made in our last episode came to fruition, and the show ends up on a very solid note that leaves it wide open for a promising season 2. Overall, it's a solid ending to an excellent season of television. The guys then move on to quickly discuss this new season of Gen V, which is off to a rockin' start. Full disclosure, and it should be obvious, if you didn't like The Boys or Gen V season 1, this is more of the same, so it could offend if you are faint of heart. But if you liked those two shows, then you are in luck. This starts off great and is unravelling some great surprises that are worth watching for. With the episode winding down, Kevin talks about the show Wayward on Netflix. It stars Toni Collette and pretty much no one else. The show is meant to be a suspense/horror show but seems to lack all of the punch that Netflix shows in the Mike Flanagan era. This leads the guys to their final tangent, the future of Mike Flanagan. It may be mostly speculation, but it's a lot of fun! As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let is know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
10/1/25 • 85:29
In this episode, the gang discusse Twinless, the Emmys, the Pitt, The Long Walk, 28 Years Later, The Man Who Killed Hitler And Then The Bigfoot, Alien Earth, Friendship, and Upload. This episode kicks off with just Kevin and Lauren. They discuss the new film Twinless, starring Dylan O'Brien. It's a low-budget affair that should have had a better release. Despite its less-than-stellar advertising, the film is excellent, getting great reviews on both Rotten Tomatoes and IMDB. It's a film about two men who meet in a group for those who have lost their twins, and the emotional journey they take together. It's definitely worth watching in the theater if you can find it, but otherwise catch it as soon as it streams somewhere! Andrew joins the call, and when Lauren finishes, the gang discusses the 2025 Emmys. While they generally agreed with the victors, some of the nominees were questionable. Many shows had too many nominations, whereas some more deserving had none. But overall, the Emmys got it right. The Emmy discussion leads us straight into Lauren's review of the series "The Pitt" on HBO. It's a 15-episode series about life in a Pittsburgh emergency room. It stars new Emmy winner, Noah Wiley The show is shot in an almost a 24-like method where the 15 episodes are basically in real time. This show deserved every award it won. After Lauren says goodnight, it's left up to Kevin and Andrew. Andrew had the opportunity to see "The Long Walk" in theaters this week. While Kevin hasn't seen it, he's a huge Stephen King fan, so he's been very much anticipating this review. Overall, Andrew liked the movie and recommends it, although some issues with bodily functions may have sent him a little over the edge. That being said, it's worth seeing in the theater if you have the time and the money, so go check it out. For the first time in a while, we get to a film that both guys have seen, 28 Years Later. This is an extension of 28 DaysWeeks Later and is definitely in a more run-down world than we've seen before. Past films seem to suggest that the rage virus affected the entire world, but it now seems isolated to the United Kingdom. Survivors are now in quarantine in the UK. This is the story of a both falling out with his father and coming into his own to save his mother's life. There are some great performances by Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes, as well as the young lead. This one is definitely worth checking out now that it's streaming on Netflix. Next up, it's just Kevin for a minute, and e talks about a film called "The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then the Bigfoot". If, by chance, you're reading this before you watch the episode, it's recommend that you take a minute and think about what you imagine this film would be. As you watch Kevin talk about it, you'll find it's absolutely nothing like anything you thought it would be. It stars Sam Elliott, and that's all we'll say here. We may not recommend going to watch this film, even though it's on Hulu, but it's interesting. If you want to see a story of a man's life journey, then go check it out. Keeping with the theme of things that probably no one will watch, Andrew watched "Friendship" this week, so it gives Kevin a chance to grill him about what he thought of the film. Generally speaking, both gentlemen agree that it's not the best film. It's neither funny nor dramatic. The argument could be made that the actors were very good, arguably too good, but overall, the film itself just is not worth watching. After a deep breath, Kevin and Andrew talk about the penultimate episode of Alien Earth, which is obviously excellent. There's a lot to unpack here because the guys haven't talked about it for a couple of weeks. Overall, the guys have loved the season so far and are really excited to see where it goes, although there's some hesitation as to whether they can end it properly, knowing that it may not even get a second season. There's a good discussion and, of course, some predictions for the finale, which may or may not have come true. So give it a listen and then go watch the season finale, which just aired. Kevin closes out the show talking about the series finale of Upload on Amazon Prime. It's a short fourth season, which amounts to a four-part series finale. Overall, it's been a lot of fun to watch. If you started watching from the beginning, you'll be satisfied with the ending. If you haven't watched, it's almost a mash-up of The Good Place and Idiocracy. You have to be in the mood for some silly humor, but it is very creative and a lot of fun, and the comedic acting is on point. So if that is your jam, go give it a watch and enjoy. As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
9/26/25 • 125:51
Kevin and Lauren are back, sans Andrew, this week, and they are discussing Bring Her Back, Too Much, Task, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, Friendship, and Our Little Secret. It's another packed week, despite being down a man. Kevin kicks off the show talking about a recently released horror film, Bring Her Back. It's available for rent or purchase right now, but not any streamers just yet. As a rental, it's definitely worth the $6. Kevin touts it as one of the better horror films he's seen in recent memory, and, as pure horror goes, it may actually be better than Weapons (which he absolutely loved). It's a possession story involving teenage kids and a crazy foster mom, but it's tense all the way through, and all of the actors, kids included, are spectacular. After the scares, Lauren flips the switch and takes us over to comedy with the Netflix series, Too Much. And, if Lauren's review is any indication, it may be just a little too much... This is a Lena Dunham project starring Megan Stalter of Hacks fame, and it tells the semi-autobiographical story of a woman's move to London, post-breakup. While the premise sounds familiar and it has a host of solid actors, the comedy itself feels just a bit too broad, and, though the potential is there, the show just misses the mark by a little bit. That said, if you love Lena Dunham, you may still enjoy this one. Next up, Kevin takes us over to HBO for the new crime drama, Task, starring Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelfry. This is from the creators of Mare of Easttown and, if you liked that one, this seems like it'll scratch that same itch. Ruffalo and Pelfrey are on opposite sides of the law as a washed-up FBI task force leader and small-time criminal, respectively. Their worlds are on a collision course by the end of the first episode, which sets up some serious drama for the rest of the season. It's a slow burn at first, but worth jumping in on now. Once again, lightening the mood, is Lauren, with 2023's Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. The Judy Bloom classic stars Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates, and manages to beautifully tell the original story without losing any of the charm. It's a coming-of-age story for women everywhere, filled with questions we all struggle with in our teen years. The performances are wonderful, and the story is a classic, so give this one a shot if you need that solid, heartfelt film. Somehow, Kevin can't just let us be happy today. His next review is of the film, Friendship, now on HBO, and starring Paul Rudd and Tim Robinson. It's not often that Kevin comes in this hot on a film, but he absolutely HATED this one. It's billed as comedy, and the trailers set it up as a very dark comedy, but really, it's just a cringe-inducing depression-fest that left Kevin feeling very disappointed. We definitely invite anyone who has seen this one to share their thoughts, good or bad, because Kevin has never been quite so confused by the hype over a film before. Lauren takes us out on a fun, albeit formulaic, romcom, Our Little Secret. This is your typical Christmas movie fare, but the draw here for Lauren was the chance to check up on the career of former child star, Lindsey Lohan. Films like these have been able to keep her working until the recent Freaky Friday sequel, which actually did quite well at the box office. It'll be interesting to see what her career trajectory is now that she's a mom and has been out of the public eye for a while, but it does look like she has a path forward, which is great! As always, thank you for watching. If you haven't already, don't forget to Like & Subscribe. We love new viewers! Also, leave us comments and let us know how we are doing and what we can be doing better. Enjoy the episode and have a great week! Facebook: @apncpodcast Twitter: @APNCPodcast Instagram: AllPopNoCulture
9/17/25 • 107:23
