Glen Weldon
Stories
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Movies
Looking for a little escape? Cue up a heist movie
There is something about a heist movie that's just fun. We dissect them and explain why they're such a crowd favorite.
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Arts & Life
5 takeaways from the 2025 Oscar nominations
From Emilia Pérez and its 13(!) nominations to the profoundly gross The Substance getting a Best Picture nod, the 2025 Oscar nominees addressed big social and political issues, all to varying degrees.
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Arts & Life
8 off-the-beaten path movies you can stream right now
Check out the big Oscar contenders all you want, but 2024 was also a solid year for movies that didn't have big names, big studios and big marketing departments behind them.
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Arts & Life
This horror genre is scary as folk – and perfect October viewing
Folk horror is set in remote, isolated areas where nature — and the superstitions of the locals — hold sway. Think: The Wicker Man and Midsommar. It is perfect, spooky, autumnal viewing.
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Movies
Batman’s nemesis Joker returns to theaters — this time he’s got a song in his heart
The origin story of the "Joker" continues, as the sequel "Joker: Folie à Deux" hits theaters on Friday. Meanwhile on HBO, the origin story behind "The Penguin" is underway.
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As D&D turns 50, we remember the early days
Dungeons and Dragons turns 50 this year. The table top, role playing game has spawned TV shows, YouTube series and podcasts.
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Arts & Life
Dungeons, Dragons and shoulder pads: Why I loved D&D as a closeted teen
As Dungeons & Dragons turns 50, critic Glen Weldon looks back on playing the game in its early years — and stumbling upon the fierce, shoulder-padded illusionist that would become his first character.
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Arts & Life
A puzzling match made in the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Robert Downey Jr. as Dr. Doom
The one-time Tony Stark will soon play Marvel Comics villain Doctor Doom. The news has our pop culture critic asking: Can you imagine Robert Downey Jr. saying these Doctor Doom lines?
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Arts & Life
Potential Emmy nominations could go to 'The Crown' and FX’s 'Shogun'
Emmy nominations will be released Wednesday morning, the awards will hold their second ceremony of the year this coming September.
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Arts & Life
'Pop Culture Happy Hour': What we're watching this summer
Two members of the Pop Culture Happy Hour team talk to NPR's Steve Inskeep about what they're excited to see on TV this summer.