Was Yoda right when he told Luke, "The greatest teacher, failure is," in Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi? What did he mean, and how does this idea play out in the rest of the movie?Riki and Matthew dive into this question, asking just what Yoda means. Is he referring to his own failures, and those of the Jedi? How does this fit with his idea of "do, or do not. There is no try." Who else fails in this movie, and what do they learn from it, and which character's arcs are executed well or p...
Apr 23, 2024•57 min•Ep. 295
Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi dive into the question of whether a pirate can truly be a hero. Using the popular anime, manga, and live-action series One Piece as a focal point, they examine the complex nature of piracy and its relationship to morality.The discussion begins by defining the term "pirate" in both English and Japanese contexts, considering its historical and cultural implications. Matthew and Riki then explore the character of Monkey D. Luffy, the protagonist of One Piece, and his un...
Apr 16, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 294
We welcome Riki Hayashi as the new co-host alongside Matthew Fox. Riki brings a wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives to the show, promising engaging discussions on fandom ethics, media analysis, and much more. Join Matthew and Riki as they unveil their plans to take the podcast in new directions, diving deeper into the fascinating world of superhero and geek culture.Key discussion points: How can we analyze media both in its original context and through the lens of modern perspectives? Wha...
Apr 09, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 293
While writing season 2 of Superhuman Public Radio (SPR), Maximilian Clark and John Dorsey reached out to Matthew to talk about a disabled character they were planning to include. In this episode, the three of them talk about that discussion – and the resulting episode – along with how Max and John made a point to bring voices and perspectives from communities other than their own into their writing room and process. Member Bonus content on Max and John’s other projects. We’ve started the convers...
Apr 02, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 292
Matthew recently participated in an in-depth analysis of Dune: Part Two on The Film Board podcast, also part of the TruStory FM entertainment podcast network. We're thrilled to share this discussion here, originally recorded for The Film Board, with our audience.In the vast expanse of cinematic storytelling, few tales grip the imagination quite like Frank Herbert's "Dune." With Denis Villeneuve's vision continuing to unfold in Dune: Part Two, The Film Board, including Pete Wright, Steve Sarmento...
Mar 26, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 291
The Fantastic Four are finally joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe! With the recent casting announcement, fans are eagerly anticipating how these beloved characters will be portrayed. Matthew and Jessica explore the significance of this movie and why the Fantastic Four are such an essential part of Marvel's history. Why has it been so challenging to adapt the Fantastic Four for the big screen? Jessica shares her insights on the previous Fantastic Four movies and why they failed to capture the ...
Mar 19, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 290
Matthew, Riki, and Paul dive deep into the prequel film Rurouni Kenshin: The Beginning in this episode of the podcast Superhero Ethics. We explore the complex themes of violence, redemption, and the pursuit of peace in a tumultuous era of Japanese history. Join us as we unravel the moral dilemmas faced by Kenshin, a skilled swordsman grappling with his past as an assassin during the Meiji Restoration.Key Points: Can violence be justified in the pursuit of peace? We examine Kenshin's internal str...
Mar 12, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 289
The recent passing of beloved actor Carl Weathers was a sad loss that left many fans reminiscing about his storied career. In this episode of Superhero Ethics, host Matthew Fox brought in frequent guests Paul Hoppe and Ashley Coffin to remember Weathers' varied roles across film and TV, and how an actor who almost never was the top star is still so fondly remembered.Some key discussion points from the episode: Weathers left a strong impression and built substantial goodwill through memorable sup...
Mar 05, 2024•47 min•Ep. 289
Matthew Fox is joined by Dr. Steven Cox to dive deep into the classic sci-fi novel Dune, and how it is often portrayed on screen and in other media. They analyze the complex themes around religion, politics, colonialism, and the dangers of charismatic leaders that author Frank Herbert weaves throughout his epic saga. Matthew and Steven compare and contrast Herbert's original vision to the various film and TV adaptations, examining how the nuance and messaging has often been lost or skewed over t...
Feb 27, 2024•52 min•Ep. 283
Matthew Fox reunites with guests Riki Hayashi and Paul Hoppe to wrap up their deep dive into Netflix's live action take on Avatar: The Last Airbender. Did the last two episodes stick the landing or fall short?In the intro, Matthew notes rising excitement across the four days while Riki felt genuine disappointment. Did Paul land closer to one side or the other?Key Discussion Questions: Does Ken Leung deliver one of the all-time great villain performances as Admiral Zhao? Does condensing Katara's ...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 47 min•Ep. 287
In this episode of Superhero Ethics, Riki Hayashi and Paul Hoppe join host Matthew Fox and have an insightful discussion about the latest two episodes of Netflix’s live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender.We explore questions like: Is the show improving overall, despite ups and downs of individual storylines? How does Iroh’s characterization and backstory differ from the original animated series? Does the portrayal of Princess Azula make sense given her early introduction? Is the sho...
Feb 25, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 286
"Secret Tunnel," Bumi, Cabbages - the whimsy is back!Riki Hayashi and Paul Hoppe join host Matthew Fox to talk about episodes 3-4 of Netflix's live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender.Topics we discuss include: The show is starting to capture more of the original's whimsy and charm while still being a bit darker and more "grimdark." Zuko's characterization and his relationship with Iroh. The writers cram a lot of story arcs from multiple episodes into just two. Side characters like T...
Feb 24, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 285
The release of Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the beloved animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender has finally arrived. Join hosts Matthew Fox, Riki Hayashi, and Paul Hoppe for a spoiler-filled discussion of the first two episodes.After initial skepticism and comparison to the original animated series, the hosts agree there is promise but an overall different tone, mood and portrayal of some key characters like Aang and Iroh. However, strong performances shine through from actors like Dal...
Feb 23, 2024•1 hr 38 min•Ep. 284
In this episode of the Superhero Ethics podcast, Matthew Fox, Paul Hoppe, and Riki Hayashi continue their in-depth discussion of the beloved animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender. They dive deeper into the complex characters and themes that have made the show a timeless classic, exploring the nuances that have inspired fans for decades, and how they will translate into the Netflix live action version, coming out soon.Key Points: The hosts delve into the character of Sokka and his journey of...
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 282
The animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender, which originally ran from 2005-2008, captured the hearts and minds of viewers around the world with its groundbreaking storytelling. With the live-action Netflix adaptation on the horizon, now is the perfect time to revisit the original series and rediscover what made it so special, as well as discuss hopes and concerns about how those aspects will translate to live-action. Riki and Paul join Matthew in exploring the show’s profound redemption arcs...
Feb 20, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 281
Who is the true monster in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein? Who was Mary Shelley, what was she saying in this novel, and why is the novel so different from how it is remembered and portrayed in popular culture? 19th-century English literature student extraordinaire Danielle WrittenInTheStars joins us to dissect the book, the author, and how to understand it in the context in which it was written. Plus, we debate which film adaptation we think is most faithful.Member Bonus content: Danielle and I del...
Feb 13, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 280
The final episode of the Disney+ TV show Percy Jackson and the Olympians is out, and we're discussing it. We talk about what we loved about the books and what did and didn't work in the show.Topics covered include: Was Luke right? Was Luke a Magneto/Killmonger-style villain with a valid point? How were the gods portrayed in the show compared to the books? Is Percy right to want the gods a chance to be better parents? How was Medusa portrayed in the show versus the books? Which actors worked or d...
Feb 01, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 279
Matthew Carroll of the MCUCast joins me to talk Marvel's Echo TV series and its connections to the wider MCU. We dive deep into the characters, the morality, the show's groundbreaking representation, and the implications for upcoming MCU stories.Topics we cover include: Where Echo and Kingpin each fit on the scale of heroes and villains Connections to the Netflix "Defendersverse" shows and debates around canonicity Hopes for the future of the Echo character and MCU's approach to interconnectedne...
Jan 30, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 278
How does a Japanese pilot—and his nation—come to terms with survivor's guilt after WWII? What is the legacy of the kamikaze in Japanese culture, and how is it seen in America? And can these issues and more be explored in Godzilla Minus One, a movie about a fire-breathing monster directed by Takashi Yamazaki? Riki Hayashi joins me to discuss these questions and more! We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what w...
Jan 23, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 277
As an amputee, Echo holds a special place in my heart, so I’m excited to have comics expert Will Freeland join me to discuss this meaningful new MCU show.Seeing a superhero who shares some of my experiences is incredible. Maya Lopez immediately enters the pantheon of disabled representation done right.In this episode, Will and I analyze the show’s triumphs. We discuss Maya’s thoughtful portrayal as a deaf, Indigenous American amputee. We appreciate the respect given to Choctaw culture. And of co...
Jan 11, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 276
What are the different ways we can find meaning in the midst of suffering? What is the nature of myth, and can we find it in the most mundane of places? And how did Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 and a Thanksgiving podcast tradition of the McElroy brothers and friends lead us to these topics? We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you! Email: ✉️ Matt...
Jan 09, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 275
Paul and I look back on the themes that emerged during 2023 as we reflect on a year of ethics in genre media. We discuss the strike, people and communities being heard and speaking in their own voices, relatable villains, video games as interactive novels, and other topics. And somehow we manage to tie almost all of it back to Blue Beetle, which we both recently viewed. We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with wh...
Dec 26, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 274
What is a Christmas movie? Does it have to have a specific message or aesthetic feel? What is the Christmas romance, and why has it become so popular? Andy and Abby join me to dive into these questions, share each of our own favorite Christmas movies, and settle that age-old debate — is Die Hard a Christmas movie? We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got o...
Dec 19, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 273
How did Snow become the villain he was? What role does nature versus nurture play in shaping our moral choices? What connections to our own world does this Hunger Games prequel highlight that give us insight?Fan-favorite Danielle (WrittenintheStarWars) returns to discuss The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, the Hunger Games prequel, in both book and movie form!Danielle is a PhD researcher who spends too much time thinking about Star Wars and The Last of Us and the rest of her time working throu...
Dec 12, 2023•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 272
The Boys: Superheroes, Villains, and the Complex Psychology Behind Their MoralityIn this fascinating discussion, host Matthew Fox is joined by psychologists Dr. Lynn Zubernis and Dr. Matthew Snyder, editors of the new book "Supes Ain't Always Heroes: Inside the Complex Characters and Twisted Psychology of The Boys." They dive deep into the psychological themes and moral complexities of the hit Amazon Prime show The Boys, analyzing topics like: The appeal of antiheroes like Butcher and flawed sup...
Dec 05, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 271
New content returns next week! Until then, we’re kicking off the season with a rebroadcast of our episode on that classic Christmas movie — Batman Returns!Can a Tim Burton movie be TOO Tim Burton? Would Ashley Coffin have discovered blue eyeshadow if it weren't for this Catwoman? And why, oh why, does Bruce think you should bring up your ex on a first date? Paul and Ashley join me to discuss these questions, and ask, “Is this our Batman?” as we talk about Batman Returns!Member note: no bonus con...
Nov 28, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 270
Another blast from the past during the hiatus. Enjoy this conversation with Paul, Riki, and myself, and stay tuned for new episodes, starting in December!Can a sword bring about a new era? Can a former assassin find peace? Can a beloved anime translate to live action? Whether you've seen all or none of the Kenshin movies or shows, the discussion focuses on ethical and historical questions with relevance today. We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the disc...
Nov 14, 2023•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 269
Read more about the results of the WGA strike here. Learn more about the SAG-AFTRA strike here. An update on our hiatus, and a favorite episode from years past—The Ethics of Professional Wrestling.In this episode, we're talking about the ethics of professional wrestling—both the stories themselves, and the meta questions about wrestling as entertainment. How far can or should a heel go before it becomes a problem? Can wrestling storylines be cathartic for the performers? What role do performers ...
Oct 31, 2023•1 hr 37 min•Ep. 268
Read more about the results of the WGA strike here. Learn more about the SAG-AFTRA strike here. The historic Hollywood writers strike rocked Tinseltown, but it has come to an end. In this episode, I discuss the outcome with my guest Andy Nelson from the TruStory FM podcast network.We break down how the Writers Guild of America (WGA) won big at the bargaining table, gaining major concessions like pay increases and AI protections. But the actors strike continues as SAG-AFTRA pushes for similar pro...
Oct 10, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 267
Bionic arms, hearing so good it makes up for a loss of eyesight - AK Maiden is back to talk with me about disability representation in the stories we love.A big-time nerd, big-time philosopher, and big-time lover of all things sci-fi and fantasy, AK Maiden is a 21-year-old with a philosophy degree and a focus on disability studies and rhetoric. She creates D&D art and content about a wide variety of nerdy topics on TikTok . We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to...
Oct 03, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 266
