Popcorn Psychology
Three licensed therapists breakdown and analyze popular movies and characters from the perspectives of an individual, child, and a marriage and family therapist.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Pan's Labyrinth: Imagination, ASPD, & Valuable Disobedience
[Content Warning: Discussions of abuse and violence]
Happy Halloween! For our second spooky installment of 2026, we finally discuss Pan's Labyrinth! We explored Ofella's use of imagination and storytelling to manage her traumatic circumstances. We conceptualize Capt. Vidal as a case study of Antisocial Personality Disorder. We also discuss the importance of ethical disobedience as both a therapist and as a person. Stay safe out there!
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Obsession: Avoidance, grief and trauma
Listen while Brittney and Hannah discuss one of the most talked about movies this year: Obsession. We will be discussing avoidance, anxiety, grief and trauma in this episode. We break down the characters of Bear, Nikki and Wish Nikki. Let us know what you think!
Trigger warning: Suicide
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Now & Then: The Psychology of Growing Up
[Content Warning: some discussion of suicide]
Join us as we disect the 1995 classic, Now And Then! We discuss each of the movie's four main characters: Roberta, Teeny, Samantha, and Chrissy. We explore each of the girl's struggles, be it the death of a parent, going through the first divorce in the neighborhood, or trying to get your parents' attention. We discuss how their childhood experiences have influenced their presentation as adults. We hope you enjoy!
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ET: Aliens, Sibling Relationships and Keys
We are finally talking about ET, a film that we have had on our list since we started! We discuss how a family deals with a parent leaving and how it effects sibling relationships and family dynamics. We also discuss empathy and communication as well as who is Keys and what does he want. As always ending with treatment and final thoughts. Let us know what you think about this incredible film!
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A Knight's Tale: Self-Determination, Chosen Family and Self Care
Listen as we explore the famous popcorn movie, A Knights Tale from 2001. In this episode, we discuss self determination within each of our main characters as well as how important it is to live towards your purpose and values. We also discuss the clear familial bond we see between Wat, Rolland and Will as chosen family. Instead of doing our regular treatment we are discussing self care and how important it is to take time for yourself and watch silly movies like this one. Did we all love it? Listen and find out!
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What About Bob!: Differential Diagnosing & Egotistical Therapists
WHAT ABOUT BOB!?!?!?!?!?!? We try to answer that question in our official premiere episode of Season 9! We use Bob as a case study for how to use differential diagnosing. We also rip apart the portrayal of a therapist via Dr. Leo Marvin.
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Bridget Jones's Diary: Undiagnosed ADHD in Adult Women & Dating
Happy Valentine's Day! Our poll winner this year is Bridget Jones's Diary! We meant to talk about authenticity and ended up having an indepth conversation on ADHD in women and the impact this diagnosis can have on someone who goes undiagnosed into adulthood. Of course, we also discuss the romantic relationships seen in the movie as well as the societal factors that exacerbate Bridget's self-esteem. Join us and spread the love!
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Muppets Christmas Carol: Attachment Wounds & Values
Happy Holidays! For our final episode of 2025, we are finally diving into A Christmas Carol, Muppet-style! We discuss the character of Ebenezor Scrooge and why he is so attached to money instead of relationships. We examine how his childhood created attachment wounds that impact the rest of his life until he is supernaturally intervened with on Christmas Eve.
From all three of us at Popcorn Psychology, we wish you a peaceful end to this year and tons of love in return for the love we feel from you :)
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The Family Stone: Grief, Family Dynamics, Meredith.
Happy Holidays! This is our first holiday episode this year! Listen while we discuss what is going on with Meredith, Everett and the rest of the clan! We discuss relationship dynamics when families are going through grief, importance of finding meaning and purpose in your life as well as those expensive shoes being broken willy nilly! This episode features Hannah and Brittney only and we missed our Ben while recording! Enjoy!
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Sinners: Systemic Trauma & Musical Healing
Happy Halloween! For our spooky episode of 2025, we are discussing Sinners! This is Hannah and Brittney's favorite movie of 2025 and we are so excited to be talking about it.
We discuss many heavy topics: childhood abuse, racial violence, oppressive systems; so be mindful while listening.
Below you can find the research referenced by Brittney in this episode:
https://lazarussiafa.medium.com/myth-metaphor-and-meaning-a-deep-dive-into-the-overwhelming-symbolic-architecture-in-the-movie-24e39197990d
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2025/04/11881716/sinners-movie-ending-explained-wunmi-mosaku-interview
https://tapmagazine.org/all-articles/sinners-is-a-film-about-black-joy
https://theemancipator.org/2025/04/26/topics/movies-and-tv/sinners-movie-analysis-beautiful-struggle-belong-survive/
https://thedig.howard.edu/a...
KPop Demon Hunters: Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections
Today we are gonna show you how its's DONE DONE DONE as we cover the MOVIE. OF. THE. YEAR. K-Pop Demon Hunters! In this episode we discuss Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections with those closest to you! This film has taken over the hearts of kids and adults everywhere and is absolutley GOLDEN!
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The Neverending Story: Identity, Grief, & Healing Through Stories
Come with us on a journey to Fantasia in this episodes film, Neverending Story. In this episode we discuss the shift in idenity that takes place when we lose a loved one. We discover the stages of grief throughout the film. We also discuss bibliotherapy and using stories to help heal ourselves. Please enjoy this wild ride with us.
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The Last of Us LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025
The Trolley Problem meets Zombies! Enjoy this Live episode on The Last of Us (HBO) from FanExpo Chicago 2025!
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Thunderbolts Panel Live from FanExpo Chicago 2025
Popcorn Psychology LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025!!! Panel 1 of 2 on Thunderbolts and When Marvel Gets Mental Health Right!
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Big Fish: Having a Complicated Relationship With Your Parent
Join us as we take our first trip down Burton lane to talk about Big Fish! We go into depth about the characters of Edward and William and their complicated dynamic as father and son. We explore the motivation behind Edward's tall tales and their impact on his relationship with his son. So get your fishing rod and waders and join us in the deep waters of Big Fish!
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Moonstruck: Identity Crises and Relationships
When the moon hits your eyes like a big pizzzza pie you will love this move all over again! Listen to this amazing episode on one of our favorite films ever! Hear us explore Identity Crises, Relationships, Grief, End of Life Issues, Cher, and hear the incredible weight of Hannah's massive talent!
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Thunderbolts*: What Happens When Trauma Gets Superpowers?
Lets Go Thunderbolts!!! Spoilers ahead as we dive into the newest Marvel movie and break down the team of characters: Yelena, Alexei, Bucky, John, Ava, & Bob. We discuss trauma, ego, narcissism, attachment, mood disorders, and more!
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Godzilla Minus One: Moral Injury & Collective Trauma
IT'S GODZILLLLLAAAAA!!!! We are finally facing the notorious giant with Godzilla Minus One. This has been a highly requested movie since it came out in 2023. Join us as we break down the concept of moral injury seen in the main character, as well as the collective trauma experienced by the Japanese people after WWII.
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Starship Troopers: Adolescent Development & Propaganda
By fan request, we are diving into the 1997 cult classic, Starship Troopers! We break down how adolescent development is demonstrated with the main characters. We also explore the power of propaganda as this movie is a satirical look on facism and the propaganda that serves it. Buckle up and look out for bugs!!
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Inside Out 2: The Impact of Anxiety
Welcome to Season 8!!! We kick off with the 2024 sequel, Inside Out 2! We discuss the introduction of Anxiety as a significant shake up to the emotional control board. We explore various therapeutic interventions to manage anxiety and how the movie does a decent job of demonstrating some of these interventions. Hold on to your sense of self and join us!!
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My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Enmeshment
Happy Valentine's Day! This year you all picked "My Big Fat Greek Wedding". Enjoy as we dive into the concept of enmeshment: what that means, the factors that can create enmeshment, and the impact of enmeshment on an individual's development.
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A Christmas Story: Kids & Their Parents
Be careful, this episode is FrA-Gee-Lay!! We dive into the holiday classic, A Christmas Story. We discuss the child dynamics centered within the film as well as parenting styles and the relationship between Mom and Dad. Join us as we try not to shoot our eyes out!!
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Home Alone: Family Issues, Holiday Stress, and KEVIN!!!
Happy Holidays ya filthy animals! In this episode we will be breaking down the 1990 Holiday Classic: Home Alone! We will be discussing the challenges of being a gifted child, the roots of behavior issues, family problems, holiday stress, and dissociation. We're gonna give you to the count of ten to tune in! One, two...ten!
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Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: Accepting What Makes You Different
Enjoy this bite sized holiday appetizer exclusively recorded using the new Spreaker content app! Hope you enjoy our mini discussion on acceptance and finding strength in what makes us different than the rest of the herd!
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House of the Dragon Live at Fan Expo Chicago 2024 with Dr. Vanessa Hintz
[CW: discussions of abuse and trauma]
Please enjoy our live panel from Fan Expo 2024! We discuss House of the Dragon with Dr. Vanessa Hintz! We mostly focus on the dynamic between Rhaenrya and Alicent and their differing experiences within the patriachy of the Seven Kingdoms.
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Addams Family Values: Stunted Development, Anti-Social Traits, and Family Systems
Happy Halloween! We are excited to join force with Dr. Benjamin Taitz of MyHeroTherapy once again to bring you this Mysterious and Ooky Sequel on Addams Family Values! We will be covering the stunted development of Fester due to being infantilized, the predatory and criminal behavior of Debbie, and the family dynamics of the Addams family on display! Duh duh de Dun!! Snap snap!!
*Note Technical issues impacted us during this recording due to weather.
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Nope: Sibling Dynamics & Dissociation
Happy Halloween! We are heading back into the cinematic universe of Jordan Peele to discuss 2022's Nope. We explore the sibling dynamic between OJ and Emerald as well as how their father's death impacted them individually as well as their relationship to each other. We also discuss the interesting presentation of Jupe in the way that he is dealing (or not dealing) with his childhood trauma. So strap into your saddle and giddy up!
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District 9: Dehumanization, Empathy, and Forced Perspective Change
Trigger warnings: Violence, Poverty, Racism, Oppression
This episode is for HUMANS ONLY! NON-HUMANS BANNED! We are taking on the 2009 Academy Award Nominee for Best Picture: District 9! We will be addressing the burning question that seems to plague our species: "How do people do this and think it's ok?!" (Spoiler alert) they dissociate, dehumanize, and delegitimize the group they are othering. This time we examine how it happens, why it happens, and what happens when the tables suddenly turn all through the lens of science fiction! Tune in and let us know what you think!
Become a...
The Breakfast Club: Parental Influence & Societal Roles w/ Molly McAleer
[Trigger warning as we discuss domestic violence, parental abuse, suicide, and briefly mention sexual assault]
School is back in session and we are already in detention! But never fear because joining us is a very special guest: Molly McAleer! We break down the five members of The Breakfast Club: Bender, Claire, Andrew, Brian, & Alison. We discuss a variety of topics: parental influence on our sense of self, societal roles, the general misery of adolescence, suicide, familial abuse, and more. Though this episode is almost as long as a Saturday detention, we hope its more insightful and entertaining.
Jumanji & Trauma Reactions
In the jungle you must wait, til the dice read five or eight! We are jumping into the 1995's Jumanji! We will be discussing the four main characters: Alan, Sarah, Judy, & Peter; and how they all demonstrate different reactions to trauma. We cover a variety of topics: selective mutism, pathological lying, identity issues, and arrested development.
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Princess Mononoke & Values
We are travelling back to Studio Ghibli to discuss the beloved Miyazaki film, Princess Mononoke! We use the wide spectrum of characters to discuss the concept of values. We explore how values are formed and also how values influence our choices.
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Portrait of a Lady on Fire: Autonomy & Actualization
[CW: discussions of suicide]
Happy Pride! Join us as we discuss Portrait of a Lady on Fire! We break down the themes of autonomy & actualization represented by the various female leads. We also explore the idea of abstract grief and have a lengthy discussion on suicide, specifically within the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you are experiencing suicidal thinking and/or feel at risk of suicide, you can contact the following supports:
The Trevor Project
call @ 1-866-488-7386 or text @ 678-678
National Suicide Hotlin...
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm: Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and Facing your Shadow
In today's episode we break down the animated classic Batman: Mask of the Phantasm! This film was truly ahead of its time and the stellar voice cast masterfully covered the mental anguish Bruce Wayne experiences as he battles his internal family system about whether upholding an oath of vengeance sworn as a child or living a happy life best honors his departed parents. In this episode we cover the topics of Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and the Jungian concept of Shadow Work. Stay out of the abyss!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280...
Arrival: Communication & Existentialism
Join us today as we discuss one of Hannah's favorite movies of all time, Arrival! We break down the use of communication in the film and how it relates to communication both in and out of therapy. We also explore the film's theme of existentialism and radical acceptance.
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Barbie: What Was I Made For?
Hi Barbie! In this episode, we are once again joined by our beloved friend, fellow therapist, and real life Barbie: Rachel Harrison. We discuss sense of self vs systemic identity. We also explore the themes of codependency and life changes. So put on your favorite pink outfit and join us!
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Saltburn: Antisocial Personality Disorder & Dysfunctional Families
Welcome to Season 7! We have heard your cries and we are starting with Saltburn!
[content warning: this episode includes discussions of abuse]
We attempt to understand Oliver Quick through the lens of antisocial personality disorder. We also discuss the Catton family as a model for dysfunctional family systems.
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Never Been Kissed: Neurodivergence & Predatory Relationships
[CW: Discussions of predatory relationships including references to assault]
This year's winner of our Valentine's Day poll is Never Been Kissed! Listener beware if you are precious about this movie because we truly rip it apart. We first break down the characters of Josie and Rob. We discuss the potential of neurodivergence in regards to Josie and the impact of failed dreams via Rob. We spend a good chunk of this episode focusing on the predatory and reprehensible relationship between Josie AND A MAN WHO THINKS SHE IS A TEENAGER! So hang on to your favorite feather boa, cuz...
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: Why You Need Your Memories
Would it be better to forget than remember when pain is involved? We try to answer that question in our PATREON picked episode on Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. We analyze the two main characters: Clementine & Joel. We also rip apart the ethics (or lack thereof) behind the “medical professionals” responsible for the forgetting procedure. Join us as we try to outrun the memory police!
Thank you, Kayla!
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Seinfeld & Festivus: Trauma & Personality Disorders
Happy December 23rd! Or how its known in the Costanza household: HAPPY FESTIVUS! Join us as we round out 2023 by getting out our metal poles and discussing the Festivus episode of Seinfeld. We discuss how trauma is represented by George Costanza as well as how Festivus is a holiday made by and for someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. We wish you all a happy new year and we hope you all win your family's feats of strength!!
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Jingle All the Way and Being a Present Parent
Merry Christmas! This holiday season we break down (and hate on) the 90s kid classic, Jingle All The Way! We discuss the representation of parenting via Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad. We also explore the destructive nature of consumerism. Hope you all don’t mind our ribbing of a modern classic that unfortunately does not hold up in any way.
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