Pulp Friction: Recent Episodes
Rocky Goldman
A show about what divides us! Every week, Rocky (she/her) is joined by a new guest to talk about something polarizing in pop culture.
rockystakes.substack.com
You’ve waited. You’ve begged. You’ve cried. And now your prayers have finally been answered. This year, Rochel and Claire reflect on 2024’s music in over 20 categories, from country to jazz, from Brats to Brits, from Sabrina to femtanyl.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com. Stay tuned for Rochel’s 2024 movie list.
Full list of nominees and winners:
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
BRAT - Charli XCX
Challengers (Original Score) - Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross
CHROMAKOPIA - Tyler, The Creator
The Great American Bar Scene - Zach Bryan
Petrichor - 070 Shake
RICHAXXHAITIAN - Mach-Hommy
Silence Is Loud - Nia Archives
Still - Erika de Casier
Sugar Water - Maude Latour
The Thief Next to Jesus - Ka
SONG OF THE YEAR
Crowded Roomz - Nia Archives
Disease - Lady Gaga
Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde - Charli XCX, Lorde
Holy, Holy - Geordie Greep
meet the grahams - Kendrick Lamar
My guy (Corporate Shuffle) - Underscores
Not Like Us - Kendrick Lamar
SIN MIEDO - JPEGMAFIA
Starburned and Unkissed - Caroline Polachek
BEST NEW ARTIST
Anycia
Baby Kia
LustSickPuppy
POLO PERKS <3<3<3, AyooLii, and FearDorian
TAAHLIAH
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Easyfun (“Just Like That”, “SO TRU”, BRAT)
FearDorian (“Hoodrat”, A DOG’S CHANCE, Triple Digits [112])
Mustard (“Not Like Us”, “TV Off”, Faith of a Mustard Seed)
Michael Uzowuru (“Black&Blue”, LANA, The Great Impersonator)
Zhone (“Talk Talk featuring Troye Sivan”, “JOYRIDE”, Sugar Water)
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Navy Blue
Zach Bryan
A.G. Cook
Geordie Greep
SZA
BEST POP SONG
Disease - Lady Gaga
Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde - Charli XCX, Lorde
Good Luck, Babe! - Chappell Roan
Leash - Sky Ferreira
WYA? - Leah Kate, 24kGoldn
BEST POP ALBUM
Big Ideas - Remi Wolf
BRAT - Charli XCX
Girl with No Face - Allie X
Imaginal Disk - Magdalena Bay
Sugar Water - Maude Latour
BEST HIP HOP SONG
Black&Blue - Vince Staples
HISS - Megan Thee Stallion
I Killed You - Tyler, The Creator
meet the grahams - Kendrick Lamar
Not Like Us - Kendrick Lamar
BEST HIP HOP ALBUM
Alligator Bites Never Heal - Doechii
CHROMAKOPIA - Tyler, The Creator
Personification - Maxo Kream
#RICHAXXHAITIAN - Mach-Hommy
The Thief Next to Jesus - Ka
BEST ROCK SONG
Anybody - Porridge Radio
Audacious - Franz Ferdinand
FIRE4FUN - Jhariah
Jerkin’ - Amyl and the Sniffers
Over Each Other - Linkin Park
BEST ROCK ALBUM
Clouds in the Sky They Will Always Be There for Me - Porridge Radio
Forever - Charly Bliss
There Goes the Neighbourhood - Kid Kapichi
TRUST CEREMONY - Jhariah
What a Devastating Turn of Events - Rachel Chinouriri
BEST DANCE/ELECTRONIC SONG
Compress / Repress - Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross
Crowded Roomz - Nia Archives
Eusexua - FKA twigs
M3 N MIN3 - femtanyl, Danny Brown
My Girl - Coco & Clair Clair
Spring Breakers - Charli XCX
BEST DANCE/ELECTRONIC ALBUM
BRAT - Charli XCX
Challengers (Original Score) - Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross
Diva of the People - Gavin Turek
Gramarye - TAAHLIAH
Silence Is Loud - Nia Archives
BEST COUNTRY SONG/ALBUM
ALBUM: The Great American Bar Scene - Zach Bryan
SONG: Texas Hold ‘Em - Beyoncé
BEST JAZZ ALBUM
Fearless Movement - Kamasi Washington
The Great Bailout - Moor Mother
No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin - Meshell Ndegeocello
Odyssey - Nubya Garcia
Rong Weicknes - Fievel Is Glauque
BEST R&B SONG
30 for 30 - SZA, Kendrick Lamar
Hell of a Ride - Nourished by Time
MUTT - Leon Thomas
Nasty - Tinashe
Young Lion - Sade
BEST R&B ALBUM
A Kid From Toronto - Kalisway
Algorithm - Lucky Daye
Bird’s Eye - Ravyn Lenae
CRYBABY - Rae Khalil
Still - Erika de Casier
BEST ALTERNATIVE SONG
Floating on a Moment - Beth Gibbons
Holy, Holy - Geordie Greep
Mahashmashana - Father John Misty
My guy (Corporate Shuffle) - underscores
SIN MIEDO - JPEGMAFIA
Starburned and Unkissed - Caroline Polachek
BEST ALTERNATIVE ALBUM
Amelia - Laurie Anderson
empathogen - WILLOW
The New Sound - Geordie Greep
Petrichor - 070 Shake
Pointy Heights - Fousheé
BEST MUSIC VIDEO
Death & Romance - Magdalena Bay (Amanda Kramer)
Perfect Stranger - FKA twigs (Jordan Hemingway)
Run It - clipping. (Lawrence Klein)
Von dutch - Charli XCX (TORSO)
Young Lion - Sade (Sophie Muller)
BEST COVER
Anthems for a Seventeen-Year-Old Girl - yeule
Burning Down the House - Paramore
Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other - Orville Peck, Willie Nelson
Murder on the Dancefloor - New Radicals
Slap That Bass | Get Happy | What the World Needs Now Is Love - Nick Cave
This Town Ain’t Big Enough for the Both of Us - The Last Dinner Party
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This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
As 2024 draws to a close, Rocky and Rose return to the Twilight saga once again to reflect on the peak of Team Edward vs. Team Jacob: Eclipse. Chris Weitz is out! David Slade is in! Bella must make the ultimate choice that she already pretty much made two movies ago. Is it better than New Moon? You bet! Is it good? It’s complicated. Persons of interest include Stonewall Jackson, Bree Tanner, and, regrettably, Harry Potter.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
2016 seems so long ago, and yet, it increasingly feels like we didn’t learn as many lessons from it as we once thought. What are we, some kind of Thunderbolts—er, Suicide Squad? Rocky and Blurry break down the good, the bad, and the deeply* ugly of a film truly emblematic of its time… and maybe, just maybe, of ours. Persons of interest include Ryan Gosling, Zack Snyder, and the vibrant nation of Australia.
Rocky is currently fundraising for her first short film! It’s called We Need More S.A.F.E. Spaces for Women! and the fundraiser is live on Indiegogo throughout the month of November. If you’re a fan of the show, we’d really appreciate your support. It’s gonna be fun, I swear.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
For this year’s Pulp Friction Halloween Spec-Dracular, a massive Sawhead takes Rocky on the ride of a lifetime, starting where it all began: Saw (2004). This tightly-wound thriller bears little resemblance to the “torture porn” label often applied to the series—if anything, it’s more like gay porn. Halloween ghouls of interest include Hawk Tuah, Art the Clown, and Taika Waititi.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
When you’re having a dialogue about what kind of movie you want to see, that is Megalopolis. Sam and Rocky are here to break down the most polarizing and endlessly fascinating film in theaters right now. Persons of interest include Paul Newman, Jon Hamm, and Spike Lee.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Yes, that’s “hundred” with an “H”. Thanks to listeners like you, we’ve hit a huge milestone, and we’re celebrating the only way we know how: by being unfettered haters. Annas will be Invented, Jacobs will be Defended, we’ll find out which forgotten MCU property outlasted Endgame, and we’ll spend the length of an Avengers movie complaining. There may even be a post-credits scene? Persons of interest include Karl Rove, Morbius, and Disney Facebook groups.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Thank you all for your support, and expect more exciting things in the very near future. And as always, send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
On-set feuds. Studios collapsing. Tragic celebrity deaths. Real-life vampirism. The story of how AMC’s Anne Rice’s Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire came to be is undoubtedly one of the most harrowing we’ve ever covered. But what about the end result? Myles says yay, Rocky says… fine. Persons of interest include Cher, Bryan Fuller, and #JaredLeto.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Let’s look back on a time when superhero comedies could be, y’know, funny. First-time guest Lily joins Rocky to talk about a modern animated classic that may or may not stand in the shadow of another modern animated classic. Is it the big screen’s best Batman? Was it the death knell for the super-serious era of capeshit? Persons of interest include Ryan Reynolds, Michael Jackson, and Gob Bluth.
See Lily introduce Dracula’s Daughter at the Los Feliz Theater this Sunday!
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky and Ruth are cancelling themselves before Gen Z gets a chance as they look at the latest record from hip-hop’s incorrigible clown prince, Eminem. The rapper has spent the better part of the past 15 years trying to relive his old glory, but has he finally managed it here? Persons of interest include Spider-Man, Caitlyn Jenner, and Juvenile.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
We asked for your riddles, and you failed to deliver. Now, our intrepid heroes (Rocky, Sam, and Leon) find themselves at their lowest point, playing skiffle for scraps on the Universal Studios backlot. That won’t stop them in their quest to solve the Beatles’ riddle once and for all as they look at the band’s 4th studio album, Beatles for Sale. Persons of interest include Berry Gordy and his beam attack.
Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky and Alex come together once again to discuss Pixar in the A.D. (After Death) (of Steve Jobs) era. In some ways, it’s the depressing and slow death of a once-cherished creative force in American culture. In other ways, it’s an inevitable and much-deserved reckoning with the Great Man theory. In other ways, maybe things are on the right track? Persons of interest include John Lithgow.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Turns out, it takes way more than 90 minutes to talk about all the epic highs and lows of Pixar. That’s why it’s getting 2. This time, Rocky and Alex cover the legacy of Pixar in the B.C. (Before Cars 2) era. Persons of interest include Michael Eisner, Francis Ford Coppola, and Shrek.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Hey, did you guys know there was a Met Gala last week? We did, and we’re giving you a primer on some of the night’s best and worst fits, from lettuce to chips and princesses to pince-nezes. Who popped, who flopped, and what was the theme anyway? Persons of interest include Taylor Swift, Ice Spice, and Katy Perry, none of whom were in attendance for obvious reasons.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Find Simone on Twitter @parasocialyte. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
A few years ago, Taylor Swift said everybody was a sexy baby. Today, she says everyone smells like either weed or little babies. What is the truth, TayTay? This week, Rocky is joined by resident Swiftie Brig to discuss what may be Taylor’s least defensible album to date. Is she bad? Is she mad? Is she… wise? Persons of interest include Katy Perry, Lana Del Rey, and DRAAAKE???
Intro (0:00)
Fortnight (17:10)
TTPD & My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys (25:28)
Down Bad (31:11)
So Long, London (33:13)
Florida!!! (34:59)
But Daddy I Love Him (36:10)
Fresh Out the Slammer (39:09)
Guilty As Sin? (41:50)
Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me? (44:28)
I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can) (45:58)
loml (49:03)
I Can Do It With a Broken Heart (51:03)
Smallest Man Who Ever Lived (53:43)
The Alchemy (55:11)
Clara Bow (57:21)
The Black Dog (59:07)
imgonnagetyouback (1:04:47)
The Albatross (1:06:06)
Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus (1:07:25)
How Did It End? (1:09:08)
So High School (1:10:37)
I Hate It Here (1:13:11)
thanK you aIMee (1:16:15)
I Look in People’s Windows (1:21:11)
The Prophecy (1:21:47)
Cassandra (1:22:08)
Peter (1:23:50)
The Bolter (1:24:43)
Robin (1:25:51)
The Manuscript (1:27:09)
Outro (1:28:34)
Pulp Friction can be found wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Noted Brit Alex Garland makes a film about American politics. What could go wrong? This week, Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) are fresh out of the theater to address the elephant in the room: Civil War is kinda interesting? Persons of interest include Jean-Claude Van Damme, Andy Ngo, and Brian De Palma.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Send riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Niche internet celebrity Natalie Wynn is back in the niche internet news, and Rocky is joined by Cody, our resident expert on the online left (and right), to tell Contra’s side of the story. If her screen name leaves a bad taste in your mouth, this episode invites you to ask, “Why?” Persons of interest include Rian Johnson, Hillary Clinton, and the Westboro Baptist Church.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
This is the big one, folks. Rocky and Blurry are talking about Zoomer Nickelback themselves, the band everyone loves to hate, Imagine Dragons. Were they always this bad? Were they lightning before the thunder? Is there actually something of value in their catalog? And most importantly, are they still Mormon or what? Persons of interest include Brendon Urie, Jesus, and Spider-Man.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Find Blurry’s animations @ Paranimate Productions on YouTube. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
What if you could watch a whole movie… on a screen? The screenlife films of Timur Bekmambetov imagine this twisted world, and Rocky is joined by Violet this week to look at the likes of Unfriended, Unfriended: Dark Web, Searching, and Missing. Persons of interest include Justin Bieber, Drake, and Roger Corman.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Each year, dozens of teens all over the world are driven mad with beguilement by the Beatles’ riddle. Rocky, Sam, and Leon are within a country mile of cracking it, and we need your help to continue our Beatle studies. For just riddles a day, you can promote this vital academic work.
Pledge a recurring riddle donation, or simply share whatever riddles you have, by reaching out to Rocky, the Pulp Friction Discord server, or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
You can donate riddles on a weekly, monthly, or even quarterly basis. Every riddle you submit will be read live on-air by our esteemed experts, and high-volume donors will receive special perks like:
-
A one-of-a-kind custom tote bag
-
A chance to appear on a future episode
Or whatever. So give a riddle. Just a little. Today.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
[CORRECTION: The song featured in Anatomy of a Fall is 50 Cent’s “P.I.M.P.,” not Jay-Z’s “Big Pimpin’”.]
The movies are back in a big way this year, and Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) are looking back at a great year for cinema. Superheroes will die! Beau will be afraid! Canada will be nominated for Best International Feature!
Check out the full list of winners below, or listen to the episode if you don’t want it spoiled. Listen to Pulp Friction wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Worst Picture: Haunted Mansion
Best Sequel: Magic Mike’s Last Dance
Best Action: John Wick: Chapter 4
Scariest Movie: Skinamarink
Funniest Movie: Dicks: The Musical
Best Animated Picture: The Boy and the Heron
Best International Film: BlackBerry (Canada)
Best Cinematography: Haris Zambarloukos (A Haunting in Venice)
Best Use of an Existing Song: “Push” by Matchbox Twenty (Barbie)
Best Original Song: “Dear Alien (Who Art in Heaven)” (Asteroid City)
Best Score: Leo Birenberg & Charli XCX (Bottoms)
Best Original Screenplay: Wes Anderson & Roman Coppola (Asteroid City)
Best Adapted Screenplay: Christopher Nolan (Oppenheimer)
Best Cameo: Martin Scorsese (Killers of the Flower Moon)
Best Ensemble: Killers of the Flower Moon
Breakout Performer: Alyssa Sutherland (Evil Dead Rise)
Best Supporting Actress: Catalina Saavedra (Rotting in the Sun)
Best Supporting Actor: Mark Ruffalo (Poor Things)
Best Lead Actor: Jason Schwartzman (Asteroid City)
Best Lead Actress: Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon)
Best First Feature: A.V. Rockwell (A Thousand and One)
Best Director: Christopher Nolan (Oppenheimer)
Best Picture: Oppenheimer
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
We’re baaaack!
2023 is over, Rocky’s moved in to her new place, and she and Claire are breaking down the past year in music. There will be live changes! There will be bad opinions! Rocky will misremember the name of a Kesha album! Claire will mistakenly refer to Flyana Boss as one person! Slowthai!
Check out the full list of winners below, or listen to the episode if you don’t want it spoiled. Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Biggest Earworm: “Hollywood Baby” by 100 gecs
Best Comeback: Everything But the Girl
Best Experimental Album: SCARING THE HOES by JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown
Best Country Album: Strays II by Margo Price
Best Jazz Album: The Omnichord Real Book by Meshell Ndegeocello
Best Alt Album: Heavy Heavy by Young Fathers
Best R&B Album: Lahai by Sampha
Best R&B Song: “Good Good” by Usher, Summer Walker, and 21 Savage
Best Electronic/Dance Album: That! Feels Good! by Jessie Ware
Best Electronic/Dance Song: “Nothing Left to Lose” by Everything But the Girl
Best Rock Album: Black Rainbows by Corinne Bailey Rae
Best Rock Song: “Johnny johnny johnny” by underscores
Best Hip Hop Album: Welcome 2 Collegrove by 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne
Best Hip Hop Song: “Jenn’s Terrific Vacation” by Danny Brown feat. Kassa Overall
Best Pop Album: Desire, I Want to Turn Into You by Caroline Polachek
Best Pop Song: “One of Your Girls” by Troye Sivan
Producer of the Year: JPEGMAFIA
Songwriter of the Year: underscores
Breakout Artist: hemlocke springs
Song of the Year: “Jenn’s Terrific Vacation” by Danny Brown feat. Kassa Overall
Album of the Year: Wallsocket by underscores
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
It’s the last podcast of 2023, but Rocky (she/her) and Brig (she/he) couldn’t make it too easy on themselves. We covered Taylor Swift’s most seminal album to date, 1989, plus its recent rerecording. Is it as good as music journalists from roughly 2016-2019 said it was? How does Taylor’s version hold up with Max Martin on the ones and twos? Persons of interest include Mariska Hargitay, Welvin Da Great, and Henry Kissinger.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries. Stay tuned in January for the 2023 Pulpy Awards!
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
We all remember where we were when Fall Out Boy dropped their first-ever hip hop remix album, Make America Psycho Again. And if you don’t, Rocky, Sam, and Emily are here to jog your memory. The ill-fated album is a who’s who—and in some cases, a who’s that?—of 2015’s famous-but-not-too-famous rappers. Is it terrible? Take a wild guess. Persons of interest include two guys named Gabe, the extended Wilco family, and my mom who was studying spiders in the Amazon right before she died.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Halloween is over, but Hollywood is here to stay! This episode, Rocky takes a look at one of the most beloved and divisive Best Picture losers in recent memory, La La Land, with the help of Flop Soup’s own Cassandra Kyriazis! You hate it, Cassandra loves it, Rocky’s ambivalent about it, but hey… that’s showbiz, baby! Persons of interest include Channing Tatum, Max Martin, and Lyle, Lyle Crocodile.
Pulp Friction and Flop Soup are both available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Who was Bobby “Boris” Pickett? How do you actually do the Monster Mash? Is Dracula a dad, or a daddy? We’ll try to answer all this and more as Rocky (she/her), Claire (she/her), and Nico (they/he) dive into the surprisingly rich text of “Monster Mash.” Persons of interest include Joe Manganiello, J Dilla, and Cloris Leachman.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Check out Claire’s band, The Death of James Dean, on Bandcamp. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Help civilians in Gaza survive by donating to trusted organizations like PCRF.
https://www.pcrf.net
https://www.map.org.uk
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
It’s time for the annual Pulp Friction Halloween specdracular! First up, it’s one of the great Halloween movie classics, Henry Selick’s Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Join Rocky and Cody as they ask the hard questions like, “Are those Oogie’s biological children?” and, “What’s the racial vibe of Thanksgiving Town?” Persons of interest include Beetlejuice, Betty Boop, and Jeffrey Katzenberg.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries. Check out Cody’s new project, Rabbithole, on his Instagram.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) uncover a lost episode from the Pulp Friction archives, our first post-9/11 Pulpy Awards. Hear us cover all the hits and misses of 2001, from famous disasters to underappreciated gems. Did Reese Witherspoon deserve more recognition for Legally Blonde? Which racing movie did BT provide the better soundtrack for? Persons of interest include Bradley Cooper, Hugh Neutron, and Jean-Claude Valjean.
Pulp Friction is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, Google, and everywhere else pods are cast. Send inquiries and riddles to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com. What year do you want to hear?
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
(Disclaimer: This is a comedy podcast. The Beatles did not kill JFK.)
Rocky, Sam and Leon are taking another stab at solving the Beatles’ riddle, and this time they’re covering their first foray into film—and maybe the best thing they ever did?—A Hard Day’s Night. Is it another insidious piece of Beatleganda, or an admission of guilt for their crimes? Persons of interest include running, jumping, and standing still.
This episode also sees us exhaust the last of our riddles for teens. If you’d like to have your own riddle read on the air, send it to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
Pulp Friction is made possible by listeners like you. To receive new episodes and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
That Eurodance you like is coming back in style! Rocky, Baph and Eddie are here to break down the little novelty song that could, “Planet of the Bass.” Who is DJ Crazy Times? WHERE is Ms. Biljana Electronica? How does it MEAN? Persons of interest include David Guetta, David Guetta, and David Guetta.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Two movies fifteen years in the making, from beloved filmmakers making massive creative leaps. Both are monster hits, particularly as a DIY double feature, but do they transcend their fraught subject matter? And more importantly, how many ways can Rocky pronounce “Baumbach” in two hours? Persons of interest include Sandra Bullock, Hobie Doyle, and the life-giving Diablo Cody.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries. Subscribe and share to support the show.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Fans have been asking, “Rocky, where the hell have you been loca?” Worry not, Pulp Friction is back! And we’re finally returning to the Twilight saga with New Moon, the nexus point for Team Edward vs. Team Jacob. Does it succumb to sequelitis, or is it, like Twilight, a quietly interesting blockbuster? Persons of interest include Barbie, some guy from One Tree Hill, and the Christ.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Altar boys, altered boys, join us as Rocky (she/her) and Emily (she/he) take another dip into Fall Out Boy’s chaotic catalog. Scratching your head at the band’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire” cover? Take a stroll down memory lane to 2015, when they followed up their big comeback with their most relevant record to date—one that left fans divided. Persons of interest include Drake, Jason Derulo, and my enemy.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
If you’ve been online at all this month, you’ve heard thousands sing the praises of the year’s biggest pop culture phenomenon, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Only Pulp Friction is brave enough to tell you what stinks about it. Join Rocky (she/her), Simone (they/she), and Alex (they/them) as they cut through the noise. Persons of interest include Seth Rogen, Logan Lerman, and Voltron.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
40,000 years ago, an Early European modern human sculpted a lion-man hybrid, one of the earliest sculptures ever discovered. Since then, anthropomorphic animal characters have fallen in and out of vogue more times than one can count, but today, they have some true diehards: furries. Rocky (she/her) is joined by two esteemed furries, Blurry (xe/any) and Flan (they/she) to talk about the fandom’s underground roots. Persons of interest include Theodore Roosevelt, Jared Leto, and the Tepid Furs.
Rocky is a writer and comedian based in Philadelphia. Blurry and Flan are both visual artists; Blurry’s latest animated short, “VAMPIRIC,” is out now on YouTube. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Berry Gordy III is known professionally as Berry Gordy, Jr. The Beatles’ third US release is called The Beatles’ Second Album. Coincidence? We think not. In our latest attempt to solve the Beatles’ riddle for teens, Rocky (she/her), Sam (he/him), and Leon (they/them) uncover the coordinated plot to launch the band in America. Persons of interest include Sally, influential endocrinologist Dr. Richard Asher, and three presidents.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries. No, the Beatles didn’t really kill JFK.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
It’s Myles on Styles this week as Rocky (she/her) and Myles (they/he) break down the strange arc of perpetual heartthrob Harry Styles. What is it about his persona that invites such extreme fandom and such extreme criticism? Is he baiting, or has he done enough? Persons of interest include Nick Jonas, Katy Perry, and our dear policeman.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
Get ready for some of Rocky’s worst takes yet on this exceptionally nice episode. Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) are talking Eminem, who once caused more friction than basically anyone else alive. The Eminem Show was his commercial and critical pinnacle, but was it also the beginning of the end? Persons of interest include Machine Gun Kelly, Steve Irwin, and our ol’ pal Elvis.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
From “miss me when I’m gone” to Bumper in Berlin, the Pitch Perfect franchise is one of the rare original film series of the ‘10s to leave a massive impact on pop culture, yet they’re looked back on with a certain derision. Do they deserve the hate? Can Rocky, Ned and Cody break down all three films before they break down completely? Aca-persons of interest include Australian John Lithgow, Jewish Ariana Grande, and the troops.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. You can find Rocky and Cody on Substack and elsewhere. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Pulp Friction is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pulpfriction.substack.com/subscribe
The disgusting brothers on m***g tour! Rocky (she/her) and Sam (she/they) return to talk about the highlights from Succession’s barn-burner of a season premiere. It’s the last season and anything could happen, but one thing’s for sure: Logan’s about to come up with a brand new slur for whatever Greg and Tom have going on. Persons of interest include Jonah Ryan, Bridget Randomfuck, and Terry Turnip Truck.
Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Rate, review, subscribe, and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Movie’s biggest night has come! All the stars came out for a glittering night of Tinseltown excess, but who took home the gold? Only Pulp Friction has your answer! Rocky (she/her) and Em (they/them) are covering all the highs and lows. Persons of interest include Matt Damon, Tammy Faye, and Morgan Freeman’s new look.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
The three amigos are back on their neverending journey to solve the Beatles’ enigmatic riddle for teens. Last time, Rocky (she/her), Sam (he/him), and Leon (they/them) uncovered the shocking truth about the Fab Four and JFK. This time, they scour the band’s second record for clues about their motives—and who’s cutting the checks.
Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Knock at the Cabin is here (and it rocks), so Rocky and special guest Shirt Bimbo are talking about the long and winding career of M. Night Shyamalan. Is he a hack who got lucky? One of the true visionaries of pop cinema? Both? Only two online trans women can crack the code. Persons of interest include Dick Tracy, Stuart Little, the borzoi of people, and women.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Check out shirtbimbo.com for cool tees, custom booty shorts, and more. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries. Subscribe and share to support the show!
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
With the year in review behind us, we’re moving forward with a hard look at an iconic band gone far too late. Panic! at the Disco is no more, and Rocky (she/her) and Emily (she/he) are reflecting on the band’s career—starting with their only certified classic—to ask the question: what was that all about? Persons of interest include Dallon Weekes, the Beatles, and Chuck Palahniuk.
Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries. Subscribe to support the show, gain access to our Discord server, and more.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Just in the nick of time (January 19th), Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) are back to break down some of their favorites in film from 2022. We talk categories like:
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Best Picture
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Worst Picture
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Best Director
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Best Lead Performances
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Best Supporting Performances
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Best First Feature
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Best Ensemble
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Best Cameo
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And much more!
Persons of interest include M3gan, Maverick, and Eminem.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries. Paid subscribers get access to comments, exclusive access, our Discord community, and much more.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s that time again! Rocky (she/her) and Lye (any) are here to break down their favorites from the year in the following categories:
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Song of the Year
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Album of the Year
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Artist of the Year
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Best Debut Album
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Plus their favorite songs and albums in pop, rock, jazz, alt, hip hop, R&B, country/folk, and electronic/dance.
You can listen to Pulp Frictionon any major podcast platform. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries. Substack supporters (and friends of the show) get access to our Discord server.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
2022 is wrapping up, which means it’s time to kick off year in review season! Before we get to the second annual Pulpy Awards, we’re starting out chill with a look back at 2022’s animated films. Can Disney recover? Is Netflix the new frontier? Rocky (she/her) and Alex (they/them) share their thoughts on the year in animation. Persons of interest include Beavis, Butt-head, and Mussolini.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show, and reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries. If you’re a real fan, join our burgeoning Discord community.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
One day in the mid-’80s, an executive at Scholastic bravely asked the question, “What if there was a babysitters club?” This week, Rocky (she/her) and Glenn (they/them) scratch the surface of this series’ illustrious history, including books, spinoffs, the 1995 film, the two TV shows, and more. Persons of interest include Kristy, Sissy Spacek, and ‘Arry Potter.
Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Join our Discord server to stay up to date with our community. Subscribe and share to support the show, and reach out to pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
After a few weeks off, Pulp Friction is back and bigger than ever. Rocky (she/her) is joined by Rose Camille (she/her) to discuss one of the few pieces of media that’s barely lost its volatility nearly 20 years after its release: Twilight. Persons of interest include Henry Cavill, Percy Jackson, and one dozen hard boiled eggs.
You can find Rocky on Twitter (while it still stands) and Rose on Instagram. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Fans and friends of the show can also join the new Pulp Friction Discord server!
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Halloween is back on the menu! Rocky (she/her), Sam (she/they) and Eddie (he/him) are teaming up to tackle two Carries—don’t worry, no pigs were harmed! Does the 1976 film’s reputation overpromise? Is the 2013 version worth a second look? Persons of interest include Zack Snyder, Lindsay Lohan, and Luke Skywalker.
You can find Rocky on Twitter and Pulp Friction wherever you get your podcasts (now including Amazon!). Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s official, folks: “Heat Waves” by Glass Animals holds the record for the most weeks a song has spent on the Hot 100 in history (and it’s still at #20!). How did this happen? What does it mean for music? Is the song any good to begin with? Rocky is joined by Kadin and River to break down what, exactly, is going on here. Persons of interest include Ed Sheeran, Dream, and an ever-lurking Johnny Depp.
You can find Rocky, Kadin, and River on their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts (now including Amazon Music and Audible!). Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
The creepiest time of the year is upon us, and Rocky (she/her) and Ruth (he/him) are talking about one of the year’s big frights (in more ways than one), They/Them. Along the way, they also assess the year in horror and the state of streaming movies. Persons of interest include John Woo, Kylo Ren, and P!nk.
You can find Rocky on Twitter and Pulp Frictionwherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, share, and rate to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
With her new album on the way, Rocky and Brig saw fit to talk about one of the more controversial chapters in Taylor Swift’s career: Lover. Is it another uneven overture? A quiet marvel? Does Rocky have some dogshit opinion about how “ME!” is good actually? Only one way to find out! Persons of interest include Ryan Reynolds, Carly Rae Jepsen, and George W. Bush.
You can find Rocky on Twitter and Pulp Frictionwherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
For this week’s fun little excursion, Rocky and Simone take on an extremely controversial topic: the fellas. Listen as they prepare a tier list of Tinseltown’s hunks broken down into five categories: “like a woman to me,” “hottie,” “cutie,” “just some guy,” and “ech.” Where will your fave fall?
You can find Rocky and Simone on their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, and everywhere else pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
A cis teen gets caught in a web of lies when he’s mistaken for a trans man in mid-’00s gay Bushwick. Sound familiar? It’s the movie that Tumblr successfully boycotted, but is Adam (2019) actually… good? Rocky and Cody are on a mission to find out, diving into all the controversies and assessing director Rhys Ernst’s thorny vision. Persons of interest include Joey Soloway, Cameron Post, and dear Evan Hansen.
Rocky and Cody can be found on their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, and wherever else you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
From Love & Thunder to torn asunder, the Taika Waititi backlash is officially upon us. That’s why this week, Rocky and Lukas are taking a look at the comedian/director’s latest flick, Thor: Love and Thunder. Is Waititi on his way out? Is the MCU itself in its retirement days? Why does this movie stink on ice? Persons of interest include Ezra Miller, Sam Raimi, and Harry Styles.
You can find Rocky and Lukas on Twitter, and Pulp Frictionon your podcatcher of choice. If you like the show, subscribe and share it with your friends. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s episode 50 of Pulp Friction! To celebrate, Rocky discusses Riverdale with two of the show’s foremost scholars, Sam and Eddie. The catch: she’s never seen it. Persons of interest include Stephen King, Andrew Rannells, and Brendan Fraser.
You can find Rocky, Sam, and Eddie on their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
The epic saga continues as Rocky and Em take an all-too-brief stab at unraveling the magic of Elvis (the movie). With the lessons of last week’s history, how does Baz Luhrmann shape up? Persons of interest include G-Eazy, Lana Del Rey, and Eminem.
You can find Rocky at her Twitter. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussions of addiction, rape, abuse, and racism.
To celebrate the one-year anniversary of Pulp Friction, Rocky brings you an Elvis double-feature! To kick things off, she’s joined by Nico to talk about the tangled legacy of Elvis, the artist. Next week, we’ll come around to Elvis, the film. Persons of interest include Barbra Streisand, the Beatles, and Bobby Kennedy.
You can find Rocky on her twitter, @newrockytweets. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Misinformation runs rampant across all corners of the internet. So what is it that gives fake Tumblr stories their je ne sais quoi? Rocky (she/her) and Kadin (xe/any) team up to uncover the truth. Persons of interest include Larry Stylinson, Benedict Cumberbatch, and the Joker.
You can find Rocky and Kadin at their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky (she/her), Sam (he/him), and Leon (they/them) take another crack at the Beatles and their diabolical riddle (for teens). This time around, our puzzle unfolds like a game of lead chess. We’re talking Beatlemania, Beatlemania-mania, and the biggest hit of the Beatles’ career. Persons of interest include JFK, Franz Liszt, and Roy Orbison.
Rocky can be found on Twitter. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is the latest reboot that’s sweeping the nation, but is it actually a reboot? That’s what Rocky (she/her) and Alex (they/them) seek to find out on this week’s Pulp Friction. Persons of interest include the Rescuers, Rocky and Bullwinkle, and “the Duck.”
You can find Rocky and Alex at their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Parker (she/her) talk about the most reputable quiz show in history, Jeopardy! Why is this old, reliable favorite suddenly a hotbed of controversy? What’s changed about the show and does it need to be fixed? What are frogs? Persons of interest include George Stephanopoulos, Lucille Ball, and Mr. Morale.
Rocky and Parker can be found at their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with any business inquiries.
Rocky’s Good Takes is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Find your local abortion fund here: https://abortionfunds.org/funds/
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Simone (she/they) cover the highlights and lowlights of Monday’s Met Gala, the first in nearly eight months! From Coughlan to Clinton, gowns to gloves, gilded to gelded, we’ve got it all. Persons of interest include JFK, an inbred German prince, and Carmen Sandiego.
Rocky and Simone can be found on Twitter. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Drew (he/him) talk about the coming-of-age tale that brought an Oscar for James Ivory and a Timothée for the rest of us, Call Me by Your Name. Critics call it “blisteringly sensual,” while Rocky’s dad raves, “Isn’t that a pedophile movie?” Persons of interest include Sam Taylor-Johnson, Shia LaBeouf, and Jenna Ortega.
You can find Rocky on Twitter and Drew on Patreon. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com to inquire about being a guest, or anything else!
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Before there was Covid, there was Morbius Madness. This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky and Alison team up to take on the only Spider-Man baddie who has never met Spider-Man and has received a Nobel Peace Prize. We also touch on Camila Cabello and WILLOW’s new single, “psychofreak,” plus Netflix’s twisted new take on Marmaduke. Persons of interest include Pete Davidson, Twenty One Pilots, and the proud members of the Morbius Discord community.
You can find Rocky and Alison at their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you’re interested in being a guest or have any other inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Simone (she/they) recount all the moments from the 64th Grammy Awards. With 9 awards and 19 music performances, this year’s show gave a certain vision for the future of awards shows. Yeah, a television! Persons of interest include King Freak, Quentin Tarantino, and Dr. Michael Morbius.
You can find Rocky and Simone at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com for business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Audio mishaps? Prolonged discourse? Inaccurate statements about Will Smith having an Emmy? This week on Pulp Friction, we’ve got it all. Our coverage of the 94th Academy Awards includes all the highs and lows, from bizarre presenters to head-scratching winners. Cuddly guys of interest include Pedro Almodóvar, Guillermo del Toro, and Francis Ford Coppola.
You can find Rocky on her Twitter. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you want to be a guest or have any other inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky (she/her) is sick this week, but you could hardly tell from this fiery 15-minute fit of passion about the debate raging the internet this week: are there more doors or wheels in the world? Persons of interest include The Doors (band), The Wheels (band), and Rocky’s boss.
You can find Rocky on Twitter and Pulp Friction wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you’re interested in being a guest or have any other business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Xander (they/them) step into the Batcave to assess the latest take on the Caped Crusader. Xander brings their extensive DC expertise to the table as we determine once and for all whether or not the actor most known for playing an emo vampire could possibly have something to bring to Batman. Persons of interest include Armie Hammer, Brian Wilson, and KLUTE!
Rocky can be found on Twitter. Pulp Friction can be found wherever pods are cast. You can support the show by subscribing on Substack or sharing it with your friends. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you’re interested in being a guest or have any other business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and emo expert Emily (she/he) take on Fall Out Boy’s seventh and latest studio album, M A N I A. In a rock-and-roll-absent age, Fall Out Boy was the last of the real ones, but hold tight or don’t as we take this expensive mistake to church. Sunshine riptide. Persons of interest include Rivers Cuomo, The Ready Set, and Rihanna.
You can find Rocky on her Twitter. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you’re interested in being a guest or have other business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s part three of our never-ending quest to solve the Beatles’ arcane riddle for teens, and this time, we actually listened to a Beatles album! Will Please Please Me offer us newfound insight into the events of September 11th? 1962? Will it lead Rocky, Sam, and Leon down a dead end? Persons of interest include Burt Bacharach, Weezer, and a little Spanish flea.
Rocky can be found on her Twitter. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com if you’re interested in being a guest or have any other business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
For this Valentine’s Day edition of Pulp Friction, working girl Rocky (she/her) and GBF Simone (she/they) take a waltz through the history of rom-coms. From Menander to Noah Centineo, it’s the genre we love to deride as trash and then reclaim as brilliant. “What happened to rom-coms?” “Why are rom-com men so boring?” “Is Nancy Meyers a genius?” These are just some of the questions we probably won’t answer, but we’ll have a lot of fun not doing it. Persons of interest include Pete Davidson, Pete Davidson, and Pete Davidson.
You can find Rocky and Simone on their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and share to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Nico (they/he/it) joins forces to take down the evil Dr. Gender with their in-depth analysis of Disney’s quiet triumph, Sky High. Marvel at their powers of analysis as they read parallel storytelling, gay subtext, and Freudian themes into a film top critics described as “agreeable.” Persons of interest include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kim Possible, and Tom Wambsgans.
Rocky and Nico can be found at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts. Share the show with your friends and subscribe on Substack to support it. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Baph (he/him) recount their favorite punchlines from a double-feature of films from Mel Brooks’ ‘80s period: History of the World, Pt. 1 and Spaceballs. Both films were considered disappointments at the time and have since been canonized into the Brooks hall of fame. Are they that good? Has Brooks’ comedy stood the test of time? Persons of interest include Alfred Hitchcock, Orson Welles, and MacGruber.
Rocky can be found on Twitter. Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. Subscribe and share to support the show, and reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com for business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Last week was the Movie Awards, this week, Rocky (she/her) and Brig (he/she) look at the best and brightest in music from 2021! Hear two butches drunkenly enumerate their albums of the year and proffer takes on everyone from Tyler to Taylor! Persons of interest include Pete Davidson, Big Time Rush, and yes, we do talk about Bruno.
You can find Rocky and Brig on their respective Twitters. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. If you like the show, share it with your friends. Contact Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, the Pulpys are here! Join Rocky (she/her) as she addresses her favorites in a downright controversial year for movies! Em’s (they/them) bringing their picks as well! See where they stand on Licorice Pizza, Spencer, The Power of the Dog, C’Mon C’Mon, and dozens of other films they’ve got plenty of takes on. Join the fun by sharing some of your favorites on Twitter!
Speaking of Twitter, Rocky and Em both have ‘em! Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. If you enjoy the show, share it on social media and support us by subbing to Rocky’s Substack. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Content warning: Discussions of suicide, racism and abuse. Spoilers for Homestuck.
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky gathers a panel of experts (returning guests Sam, Kadin, and Emily) for a thorough discussion of one of the 21st century’s most influential pieces of new media, Homestuck. Is it the irredeemable piece of st its biggest fans claim it is, or the stunning work of prose its haters so often dub it? Will Rocky, who has never read Homestuck, learn anything about the actual story of the comic? And what of Vriska?
Rocky, Sam, and Kadin can be found on their respective Twitters. Sam is a writer for the forthcoming dating game ValiDate, which you can currently wishlist on Steam. You can watch some of Kadin’s animations on YouTube. Pulp Frictionis available wherever pods are cast. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky’s flying solo once again on this week’s Pulp Friction! The topic at hand is 2021’s best and worst hit songs, part of an ongoing series of 2021-in-review episodes and articles on her Substack! Persons of interest include Polo G, Gwen Stefani, and the fine denizens of Australia. This episode also gives you early access to Rocky’s best list, dropping on Substack tomorrow!
You can find Rocky on her Twitter. Pulp Friction is available wherever you get your podcasts, and this episode will be available on all major streaming platforms within an hour of its Substack launch. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This holiday season, families across America gathered ‘round the campfire to watch the latest Netflix original: Cowboy Bebop. Rocky (she/her) and Alex (they/them) have plumbed the depths of these 10 hours so you don’t have to, and came out the other end with plenty to say on both the show itself and the unending phenomenon of live-action anime adaptations. Persons of interest include Woodcock, Seinfeld, and the unavoidable Gus Van Sant.
Rocky and Alex can be found at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast. If you like the show, you can support it by subscribing on Substack, or by sharing it with your friends on social media. Reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
With the release of the first (and perhaps only) true hit of the COVID-19 era, Rocky (she/her) welcomes Diego (he/they) back onto the pod to take an in-depth look at Spider-Man: No Way Home. Is it great? Is it s**t? Probably neither, I reckon! Persons of interest include Topher Grace, Aaron Taylor Johnson, and of course, Dr. Michael Morbius.
Rocky and Diego can be found at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Share and subscribe to support the show, reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with business inquiries or if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s Wambsgans Wednesday, and Rocky (she/her) and Sam (she/they) are celebrating by breaking down Succession’s jaw-dropping season 3 finale, reflecting on all the things we got wrong the last time we talked about the show, and once again speculating wildly about what’s to come.
You can find Rocky and Sam at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available wherever pods are cast, including Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, and TuneIn. If you enjoy the show, you can support it by subscribing to the Substack and sharing it with your friends. If you’re interested in being a future guest or have other pod-related inquiries, you can reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
An old friend returns from a long hiatus with a third piece that brings her in a bold and polarizing new direction. That’s right, folks, Simone’s back for their third Pulp Friction jaunt! Also, we’re talking about Lorde. People of interest include Hercules, Lena Dunham, and a shockingly ubiquitous Grimes.
You can find Rocky and Simone at their respective Twitters. You can find Pulp Friction on Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, TuneIn, or wherever else you cast your pods. Support the show by subscribing or sharing with your friends, reach out to Rocky for inquiries, and check out linktr.ee/pulp.friction for other ways to stay involved.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s father (Rocky), son (Diego), and house of Gucci (podcast) on this week’s Pulp Friction! We talk about the biggest drama of the pandemic era from top to bottom, and give our thoughts to the Grammy nominations. Persons of interest include Zack Snyder, Wong Kar-wai, Ansel Elgort, and Dracula.
You can find Rocky and Diego at their respective Twitters. If you’re a fan of the show, support it by subscribing to Rocky’s Substack and sharing with your friends! Reach out to Rocky on Twitter or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com to inquire about business, being a guest, or getting Rocky on your podcast.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky and Ella come together for a brief chat (that’s longer than the film itself) about a “forgotten feminist classic” that’s anything but forgotten, Jennifer’s Body. Come to hear them ramble about the horror genre, stay to find out why Rocky thinks it’s actually about 9/11.
You can find Rocky and Ella at their respective Twitters. Pulp Friction is available on Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, TuneIn, and wherever else pods are cast. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky or pulpfrictioncast@gmail.com with comments and inquiries.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Cody (they/them) dive into a recently-unearthed treasure trove of ‘90s kitsch: Tammy and the T-Rex, starring an unfathomably-young Denise Richards and Paul Walker. They also give their thoughts on Diablo Cody, Donda (Deluxe), and the many forgotten juggernauts of Bush-era pop culture.
You can find Rocky and Cody at their respective Twitters. You can find Pulp Friction on Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, TuneIn, and wherever else you get your podcasts. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a guest!
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s another solo outing on Pulp Friction this week, as Rocky regales you with tales of Kingo, Druig, Gilgamesh, and who could forget dear ol’ Sprite? A welcome change of pace or the MCU’s first true disaster? Or both?
You can find Rocky on Twitter and listen to Pulp Friction wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to support the show and reach out if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s the first ever Pulp Friction Halloween Specdracula! Raven (they/she) joins Rocky (she/her) to talk about a horror classic from the twisted minds at Disney, Tower of Terror. If you’ve ever wanted to see a guy who looks like Paul Walter Hauser say “cha-ching” or fancy ghosts come after Kirsten Dunst with a meat cleaver, we’ve got the flick for you!
You can find Rocky and Raven at their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest. You can also find Pulp Friction on Spotify, Apple, Stitcher, or TuneIn.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her), Sam (he/him), and Leon (they/them) unlock the next chapter of the Beatles’ sprawling riddle for teens. Last time, we heard tell of the Quarrymen, old before their birth, straining each muscle and sinew. This time, we uncover lies, conflicting stories, and potential criminal cover-ups surrounding the Beatles’ whereabouts on September 11th.
You can find Rocky and Leon on their respective Twitters, and check out Leon’s art on Instagram. Become a paid subscriber to support the show and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Sam (she/they) have a bit of a succ-session of their own as they take a deep dive into the latest episode of the hottest show on TV, Succession. There will be spoilers, speculation, obnoxious laughter, and Greg talk. We’ll also spare a word to the movie sensation that’s sweeping the nation, Needle in a Timestack.
You can find Rocky and Sam at their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support Rocky, the show, and gain access to exclusive bonus content, and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week, Rocky (she/her) and Kadin (xe/he) address the elephant in the room: “Let Her Go,” the confused, drab, formless indie pop track that surreptitiously became one of the most-streamed songs of all time. We also devote a thought to Jesy Nelson’s debut solo single, “Boyz” with Nicki Minaj. A short and sweet episode with a twist ending!
You can find Rocky and Kadin on their respective Twitters, and check out Kadin’s Instagram for some of xyr cool and good art! Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on the pod, Rocky (she/her) and Allie (he/she/they) write their “Dear Evan Hansen letter” to the feel-bad movie of the September slump. Ben Platt IS Dear Evan Hansen, and we will not be spending the entire two hours talking about how weird he looks. Between bad songs, bad direction, and particularly egregious storytelling, we ask ourselves the question, can this movie be fixed?
You can find Rocky and Allie at their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and receive access to exclusive bonus content, and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky (she/her) and Xander (they/them) were supposed to do a summer movie and music retrospective. But as it turns out, we had much more to say about the just-announced cast of the untitled Mario movie. Wanna hear the hour we did spend talking about the songs and movies of the summer? It’ll be released as an exclusive for paid subscribers!
You can find Rocky or Xander on their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Rocky (she/her) and Flan (she/her) devote two and a half delirious hours to perhaps the most extensive subject ever covered on the pod: the lore of Sonic the Hedgehog. From his first game to his first movie, we make sense of the many attempts to explain how a hedgehog got so fast and so blue, and consider what the next step for the franchise might be.
You can find Rocky and Flan on their respective Twitters, where Rocky does bits and Flan makes art! A little something for the furries and gamers in the crowd. Contact Rocky to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Simone (she/they) team up once again for a super-charged review of 2021’s Met Gala fashion. Listen to them offer their takes on over 100 of the best and worst looks from the biggest night in fashion, and become a paid subscriber to gain access to over an hour of extra content! If I didn’t know better, I’d say we spent too much time talking about the Met Gala!
You can find Rocky and Simone on their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and contact Rocky to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Shana tova! To kick off the new year, Rocky (she/her) presents her first solo episode of Pulp Friction! We’re talking Certified Lover Boy, the new album by Canadian rap icon Drake. It’s an extensive and far-reaching conversation that fans and haters alike can enjoy, with plenty of hot takes along the way.
Subscribe to support the show and see exclusive bonus content! You can find Rocky on her Twitter and support her directly through her Ko-Fi. Look forward to more great episodes in the new year, including returning guests and a unique panel discussion ;•)
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Two days late? Two hours long? Audio issues? Outtakes? Nerdy jocks? It must be time to talk Donda, the tenth studio album by multihyphenate megalomaniac Kanye West. Rocky (she/her) and Brig (he/she) take a deep dive into every track on the album, but if that’s not enough for you hogs, there’s over an hour of bonus content that’ll be made available for paid subscribers.
You can find Rocky or Brig on their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest!
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Emily (she/he) do a deep dive into the albums of the sixish-part trinity of pop punk kings and queens. We’re talking My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Panic! at the Disco, Paramore, Gym Class Heroes, Twenty One Pilots, Cobra Starship, and even I Don’t Know How But They Found Me, and also the fan communities and cults of personality around these, for the most part, good bands!
Emily’s auditory shitposts can be found on his Tumblr, while Rocky’s can be found on her Twitter. Subscribe to support the show and gain access to exclusive content, including over an hour of conversation deleted from this very episode. Contact Rocky to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on a very special and moderately drunken Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her, birthday boy) is joined by Sam (he/him) and Leon (they/he) to take the first step of their thousand-mile journey, piecing together the clues to solve the Beatles’ arcane riddle (for teens). Our first clue: “Quarrymen, old before our birth, straining each muscle and sinew.”
You can find Rocky pumping out high-quality content at all hours on her Twitter. Subscribe to support the show and help pick subjects for future episodes, and contact Rocky if you’re interested in being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Simone (she/they) join forces to talk about the cinema event of the summer (that bombed even by pandemic standards), Jon M. Chu’s In the Heights. Other discussion topics include Clifford, bathing, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Ansel Elgort, an Office Depot in Cincinatti, parenting blogs, and why Lin-Manuel Miranda is the new J.Lo.
You can find Simone or Rocky on their respective Twitters! Subscribe to support the show and contact Rocky to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Do you wanna mess with Limp Bizkit? Well, you can’t mess with Limp Bizkit, on account of they get it on. This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky (she/her) and Mitch (he/him) confer a meeting of the minds to discuss a band whose reputation as the butt of the joke (and tremendous commercial success) has catapulted them heads and shoulders above their nu¨-metal peers. Are they “Pollution” or a rap-rock “Phenomenon”? Get “N 2 Gether Now” and “Take a Look Around” as we learn “The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)”.
Check out Mitch on Twitter or find his Variety Hour on YouTube. You can find Rocky on Twitter eight days a week. Subscribe to support the show and reach out to Rocky to inquire about being a guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
It’s love, Simon style on this week’s Pulp Friction as Rocky (she/her) and Alex (they/them) talk about the first gay (teen major studio romance) movie and the first entry in the shockingly-expansive Simonverse, Disney’s Fox’s Love, Simon. Is it worthy of simony or sanctimony? We’ll see what Simon says.
You can find Alex’s art on Instagram and their tweets on Twitter, where you can also find Rocky. Subscribe to support the show and be involved in future episodes. Shoot us a message if you’re interested in being a guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
(Content warning: discussion of serial killers, cannibalism, dismembering, potentially triggering language about trans and mentally ill people.)
Welcome back to Pulp Friction, a show about what divides us! This week, Rocky was joined by Clarissa (she/he/they) to talk about a hotly-debated American classic, 1991’s The Silence of the Lambs. Is it transphobic? What does it mean for a film to be transphobic? Do the intentions of the filmmakers change one’s impression of the measurable harm done? Tune in to find out, and if you listen closely, we might also talk about the movie.
You can find Clarissa and Rocky on their respective Twitters. Subscribe to support the show and have a say in what gets discussed in future episodes.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, Rocky and Kadin talk about the most successful rock album of the past decade, Blurryface by Twenty One Pilots. Known for their incessant fanbase and brief window of radio dominance, few active bands incite more volatile reactions, but when it comes to Blurryface, do we care what they think?
Check out Kadin’s art on Instagram and preemptively follow his Twitch to be caught up when xe starts streaming. You can find Rocky on her Twitter, where she posts more hot takes and top-shelf content. Subscribe to support the show, get exclusive content, and help us pick topics for future episodes.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
This week on Pulp Friction, me and Sam (they/he) commit a cardinal sin: we talk about Fight Club. Is it bad? Is it good? What’s it really about? Do its fans take it the wrong way, or do its opponents reflect on a version of the film that doesn’t actually exist? You’ll have to listen to this good, good audio to find out.
ValiDate Volume 1 drops Spring 2022! Sub to my stack to support the show and pick topics for future episodes, and message me to inquire about being a future guest.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe
Sega called and said it’s time for a Dreamcast! For this episode of Pulp Friction, I was joined by Kadin (https://www.instagram.com/paranimate/) to talk about the Minecraft Youtuber Dream, the intertwined histories of Minecraft and Youtube gaming, and how meaningless drama conquered the internet.
Like what you hear? You can subscribe to support me and see exclusive content.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rockystakes.substack.com/subscribe