The hottest Entertainment Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

The Unremitting Monedey

The Lifeboat • 160 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Selling virtual items, like gems in games, raises questions about morality and customer responsibility. People should manage their finances wisely, even in digital spaces.
  2. Entertainment in the form of virtual games can distract people from their real-life struggles, but there's concern about the exploitative aspects of selling virtual goods.
  3. The workplace can feel mundane and draining, leading to a desire for escape or change. Many people face the struggle of balancing personal happiness with their jobs.

💖🗓️ Looking for inspiration to spice up your calendar?

Digest // Storefronts of Bangkok • 119 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Entertainment
  1. Experience all that Bangkok has to offer, from cultural heritage to modern charm, with guidance from Digest // Storefronts
  2. Explore exciting events in Bangkok such as art showcases, music performances, and special celebrations on specific dates
  3. Stay updated on new places to visit in Bangkok like bars, cafes, and hotels, as well as unique services like Muvmi's car sharing in the city

Bonus JoeWrote For Your Holiday Weekend

JoeWrote • 16 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🎙 Podcasts Entertainment
  1. You can listen to a podcast about the _ALIEN_ movies and capitalism while avoiding holiday arguments. It’s available on streaming apps too.
  2. There’s a discussion on the future of the Democratic Party focusing on the left’s pushback against centrist views. It's an interesting take that you might not have thought about.
  3. An article about the UN's role in Palestine's colonization is available for reading. It's a critical look at an important issue.
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The Met's multiple misfires

London in Bits • 117 implied HN points • 15 May 23
📰 News Entertainment
  1. The Met faced criticism for misfires in various incidents, including inappropriate arrests and handling of situations.
  2. There is a lineup forming for the Tory mayoral team, with candidates focusing on similar issues like crime, transport, and housing.
  3. Recent incidents involving the Met include a dog attack response, officers facing misconduct charges, and concerns over recruitment practices.

Why MAGA is Swiftie Boating a Pop Star

The Experiment • 58 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The controversy surrounding Taylor Swift and her relationship with a football player has created a lot of drama, particularly with MAGA supporters.
  2. Taylor Swift's parasocial relationship with her fans through social media has been a significant aspect of her popularity and impact.
  3. Taylor Swift's music focuses on breakup anthems rather than sexual allure, which has caused backlash from certain groups and individuals.

For the Love of God, Bring Back Blind Hiring Processes

I Might Be Wrong • 8 implied HN points • 31 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The entertainment industry publicly and actively prioritized hiring more women and non-white people in recent years, with companies and unions changing policies and incentives to do so.
  2. Calling rejected white men ‘not talented enough’ sidesteps the problem because talent is subjective and often unknowable, so that argument doesn’t resolve claims of discrimination.
  3. Bringing back blind hiring processes would help reduce identity-based bias and make hiring decisions focus more on the work itself, which could feel fairer to everyone.

Vol. 2, Issue 5 - The Time I Almost Lost My Charizard

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Owning a Charizard card was a big deal, and the author really valued it as a kid. It was popular among friends, making it even more special.
  2. A childhood friend stole the Charizard card, showing how trust can be broken by those we least expect.
  3. Even after getting the card back, it was bent, leaving a lasting reminder of that betrayal and changing how the author views trust and possessions.

I Hate You, Please Stan Me

Default Wisdom • 207 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Fandom can mean different things to different people, and not everyone agrees on what makes a fan. Toxic fandom often involves harassment and bigotry, but not all criticism comes from actual fans.
  2. Healthy fandoms support one another and enjoy discussing their interests, while toxic ones, often called 'standom,' enforce strict loyalty and can lead to aggressive behavior against critics or other fans.
  3. Being cast out from a fandom can hurt deeply, as it affects one's sense of identity and belonging. Fans may feel a mix of fear and aggression as the community's unwritten rules change around them.

The Work of Stagnation

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 98 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Shows like 'The Simpsons' and 'Saturday Night Live' have become ingrained in American pop culture but need to evolve to stay relevant.
  2. Even long-running shows like 'The Simpsons' can adapt to modern societal expectations and remain fresh and engaging.
  3. Paid subscriptions to content creators like Oliver Bateman support critical discourse and thoughtful analysis of various topics.

Spring Festival Gala Review by Chinese Doom Scroll

ChinaTalk • 429 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Many people found the 2024 Spring Festival Gala to be enjoyable and a hit among the past few years' shows.
  2. The performances included a variety of acts showcasing traditional Chinese arts like drums, dancing, opera, martial arts, and folk songs.
  3. Despite some controversial comedy skits, overall the Gala featured high-quality, impressive performances and a mix of propaganda and entertainment.

Dingus of the week: Nic Pizzolatto

Men Yell at Me • 419 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The 'Dingus of the Week' is Nic Pizzolatto for his reactions to the TV show True Detective's latest season, which featured indigenous women and received criticism from him.
  2. Some recent positive highlights include a strippers' bill of rights, a stingray in North Carolina who reproduced without a mate, and Beyonce becoming the first Black woman to top the country charts.
  3. Celebrating personal victories, like having a book published, can be surprisingly down-to-earth, even involving mundane tasks and moments with loved ones.

The endless wokeness of Hollywood

Unreported Truths • 58 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Hollywood often portrays white male characters negatively, making them the villains while characters from other backgrounds are shown as heroes. This can be seen in movies like 'Jurassic World Rebirth'.
  2. The focus on diversity in films sometimes feels forced and overly obvious, which can take away from the entertainment value. It's like watching a movie with too many messages about being inclusive.
  3. There's a growing feeling that many studios are just following trends and not being original, leading to a lack of creativity in storytelling. People notice these patterns and start calling them out.

The Only Five Things I Liked in 2025

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Nostalgia and reboots were everywhere in 2025 but mostly underwhelming, showing people often romanticize the past even when it wasn’t actually better.
  2. Small personal joys — like a child’s funny moments and annoying bedtime rituals — mattered more than big cultural events and often became the year’s real highlights.
  3. Online culture shifted toward sharper skepticism and new forms of entertainment: smart shows like Pluribus stood out, viral “how-to” hacks were frequently called out as misleading, and AI-generated animal content rose as a new comedic force.

No Forgiveness

Disaffected Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 07 Nov 22
🎙 Podcasts Entertainment
  1. Forgiveness can be difficult for some people. It's okay to feel that way and not force it.
  2. Holding onto anger is a personal choice, and it can be a way to protect oneself. Everyone deals with conflict differently.
  3. It's important to process feelings and not rush to forgive just because others expect it. Everyone has their own pace in healing.

Scrapbook #1: Venom 3, Podcasting, and the 'demise' of the Sony-Verse

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The new movie Venom: The Last Dance is better than the last one but still has its flaws. Some parts felt rushed, yet the action scenes at the end are impressive.
  2. The Sony Spider-Man Universe isn't ending, but it's shifting focus. They are pausing some projects while still working on Spider-Man titles and exploring what's successful.
  3. Alan Wake 2 is a unique horror game that's worth playing if you enjoy narrative-driven stories. It's beautifully made but hasn’t sold as well as expected, which is disappointing because we need more creative games like it.

Counter Points for 1/24/24

Bad News • 58 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Entertainment
  1. Covered the New Hampshire primary, war in Gaza, border developments, and Oscars nomination controversy.
  2. Ryan Grim filling in for Krystal tomorrow and will be sending out links.
  3. Subscribe to Ryan Grim for full access and a 7-day free trial.

So, How Was Your Christmas?

Fireside Chat Logs • 59 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Entertainment
  1. The author shares their Christmas experience, from early morning flights to family gatherings and traditions in Milwaukee.
  2. During the trip, they got to enjoy local food and visit a unique bar called Safehouse that required a secret entrance.
  3. The Christmas trip included family activities like board games and Mario Kart, and ended with a special tradition of watching a Packers game with their mom.

RTS fever

The Rectangle • 56 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Gaming interests can change over time. While it might have been a huge part of life as a kid, adult responsibilities can make it harder to find time to play.
  2. Real-time strategy games, or RTS games, offer a fun and intense gaming experience. They allow you to focus and engage fully, making them a great way to escape everyday distractions.
  3. Playing games with friends in the same room can be way more enjoyable than online gaming. It can create memorable moments and enhance the overall experience.

We Are Vessels and History Flows Through Us

The Sunday Wisdom • 58 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. No single individual can take full credit for major achievements; success is often the result of collaboration and contributions from many.
  2. We are all influenced by our circumstances and the help we receive from others; no one truly achieves success alone.
  3. Recognize and appreciate the often unseen and unrecognized contributions of individuals in bringing about significant events or creations.

The New Subversives and the Fall of Colbert

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 50 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Stephen Colbert's late-night show faced cancellation not just due to politics but also because of low ratings and high costs. It shows how taste in entertainment is changing.
  2. New comedians on platforms like YouTube and TikTok are shaking up the comedy scene with bold and irreverent humor that traditional networks may not support. They don't stick to party lines and tackle all sides of issues.
  3. Comedy is losing its edge in mainstream media as it becomes less daring and more controlled by political correctness. There’s hope for a resurgence of fresh, honest humor that can challenge power without fear.

New column: Headlines of Interest

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 121 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Scientists are tracking a fast radio burst from a dead galaxy. This challenges what we thought we knew about how these signals can happen.
  2. A new blood test called PAC-MANN could help find pancreatic cancer earlier. Early detection can really improve treatment outcomes for patients.
  3. Chocolate prices are going up because of bad weather and disease affecting cocoa production in West Africa. This means chocolate bars may get smaller or more expensive.

Amazon Unearthed Rare Cuts of Rob Zombie’s Halloween 1&2

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Rob Zombie's _Halloween_ films have different cuts that show how the director's vision changed. The theatrical versions focus more on compromises made for distribution.
  2. The director's cut of _Halloween 2_ is seen as more authentic and explores deeper themes than the theatrical cut. It tackles Michael Myers' humanity, diverging from traditional horror expectations.
  3. The theatrical versions of the films are now available on streaming, allowing fans to experience these unique takes for the first time in years.

The Most Nuanced Take You Will Ever Read About Sparta (and North Korea)

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 390 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Sparta and North Korea were both reactionary societies that lacked free flow of ideas, causing harm to their people.
  2. Nuanced narratives like _Three_ and _Crash Landing on You_ provide valuable insights into life in closed-off societies like Sparta and North Korea.
  3. Striving for nuance rather than strong opinions is important when discussing societies that are unable to respond, like Sparta or North Korea.

Inside Hollywood’s $200 Million Bet on Formula 1

Huddle Up • 58 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Hollywood made an ambitious sports movie about Formula 1, spending $200 million on it. This shows how big the movie industry is getting into sports.
  2. Brad Pitt stars as a retired F1 driver in the film, bringing star power and excitement to the project.
  3. The film is directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, highlighting strong talent behind the scenes.

Good Luck / episode seven

Nice Try • 59 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
😂 Humor Entertainment
  1. A funny story was shared about a man who built a secret tunnel to a bar to drink without his wife's knowledge. It highlights the lengths some people might go to hide their habits.
  2. The story sparked a discussion among friends in the truck about the wife's concerns, suggesting she was right to worry about her husband's drinking.
  3. This episode showcases how humor can be used to address serious themes, such as addiction and the impact of relationships on personal choices.

2024 for the Wins

Situation Normal • 147 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Celebrating small wins is important. It helps you recognize progress and feel good about your achievements.
  2. Facing personal challenges, like mental health, can lead to growth. Getting support can make a big difference.
  3. Trying new things and keeping promises, like going on trips, can bring joy. These experiences enrich your life.

Vol. 1, Issue 34 - Miles's Pokemon Figure Collection

Johto Times • 99 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Miles has a huge collection of Pokémon figures, including around 700 figures. He loves collecting because it brings him joy and reminds him of his childhood.
  2. The Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic is coming out in November 2023, and it sold out quickly for pre-orders. Fans are excited about the new and rare cards included in the set.
  3. Collecting can start at any age, and you don't need a huge collection to enjoy it. Whether it's figures, cards, or plushies, it's all about what makes you happy.

Did Covid Cut Carnage Short? A ‘Venom 2’ Deep Dive

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The runtime of 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' is unusually short for a blockbuster sequel, likely due to post-production disruptions caused by COVID-19. This led to rushed editing and challenges in completing visual effects.
  2. Budget issues played a big role in the film's final cut. It seems that cuts were made in order to keep costs down, especially since VFX work can be really expensive.
  3. The filmmakers claimed the short runtime was intentional for a fast-paced experience, but it looks like external factors and budget constraints heavily influenced the final product.

[57] Pokemon: Fad That Never Fades

Life in Color • 98 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Pokemon is one of the most successful media franchises in history, with a value of over $90 billion.
  2. The success of Pokemon can be attributed to its creator Satoshi Tajiri's innovative monster-catching concept and strategic partnerships for global expansion.
  3. The Pokemon universe's focus on collecting, social engagement, and continuous innovation through new products has helped it create a lasting and iconic cultural impact.

A Realization as a High-Level DM

Fireside Chat Logs • 39 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Balancing high-level D&D combat encounters can be a challenge due to the abundance of abilities and actions, leading to potential slow gameplay.
  2. To streamline high-level combat encounters, reduce battlemap size, limit the number of opponents, and encourage players to prepare, act promptly, and avoid retro actions.
  3. Implementing changes to make combat encounters more efficient and engaging can lead to smoother gameplay and heightened player emotions.

My life through Halo

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 447 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The author fondly recalls playing the first Halo game with their brothers on Christmas
  2. Playing Halo 2 online multiplayer was a significant experience for the author
  3. The author's relationship with the Halo series evolved over time, eventually moving on to other games

Vol. 1, Issue 14 - My Pokémon Collection - Part 3

Johto Times • 159 implied HN points • 11 May 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. The author shares their personal Pokémon collection, focusing on classic VHS movies that are nostalgic for them. They have great memories connected to these movies and have kept them despite not having a VHS player.
  2. Pokémon GO's monthly revenue has dropped significantly, and the game's company, Niantic, faced backlash after increasing prices and limiting features. They claim that changes have improved gameplay, but many players feel ignored.
  3. The newsletter includes a mailbag segment where a reader asked about a pink Pikachu. While there's evidence of a temporary pink Pikachu in an anime episode, it’s not a permanent feature in the games.

The meet-cute (rom com, Act One)

Both Are True • 344 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment
  1. Rom-coms are not dead, they are alive and thriving, often reflecting real-life moments of love and connection.
  2. Relationships can have quirky and unique beginnings, like meeting on the set of a film and starting a flirtatious interaction through a phone prank.
  3. Love stories often have unexpected twists, like the moment of realization and confession that sets the stage for the next act in the romantic journey.