Hosts Riki and Matthew welcome returning guest Jessica Plummer to dive deep into Marvel's Thunderbolts* and its bold attempt to explore mental illness within the superhero genre. The discussion examines whether the film succeeds in portraying depression authentically or falls into problematic tropes about sad white men needing rescue.The hosts debate whether the film's treatment of Bob/Sentry reinforces toxic masculinity tropes or genuinely explores community support for mental health struggles. Jessica argues that Yelena remains the true protagonist throughout, while Matthew initially worried the film prioritized Bob's emotional journey over everyone else's.How does the movie portray different types of depression across its ensemble cast? The conversation explores how each character—Yelena's open struggles, Bucky's careful masking, Alexi's self-medication—represents different manifestations of depression and coping mechanisms. The hosts examine whether the film successfully shows that depression isn’t one-size-fits-all.Can superhero blockbusters meaningfully address serious mental health issues? The discussion weighs whether films with action sequences and quips can authentically explore topics like depression, or if the entertainment format undermines the message. They consider how Thunderbolts* compares to other MCU attempts at mental health representation.Does the film's "group hug" resolution feel authentic or overly simplistic? Drawing from a Polygon article by Tasha Robinson, the hosts examine whether the movie adequately addresses the shame and complexity of accepting help during mental health crises, or if it presents an unrealistic fantasy of easy healing.Other Topics Covered

• The significance of Yelena as the true protagonist versus Bob as a supporting character
• How the film's non-romantic dynamic between Yelena and Bob affects the narrative
• Comparison between comic book Sentry/Void and the movie adaptation
• The role of community and connection in mental health recovery
• Visual metaphors for depression (the hole/ladder analogy, elevator shaft scene)
• John Walker's portrayal of domestic depression and toxic masculinity
• The impact of different casting choices on the film's themes
• How Thunderbolts fits within broader MCU mental health representation
• The creative team's background in depression-focused storytelling (The Bear, Beef)

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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Star Wars Andor: How Fascism Creates Its Own SupportersWhat drives someone to become complicit in fascism? We explore Syril Karn's arc in Star Wars: Andor and what it reveals about how authoritarian systems manipulate their supporters.How does fascism differ from authoritarianism? We examined the central leader cult of personality that defines fascist systems, with Emperor Palpatine as the prime example.What makes Syril believe in "law and order"? His rigid worldview and imperial propaganda blind him to corruption, driving his obsession with Cassian Andor and participation in the Gorman massacre.Why do fascist systems encourage infighting? The Empire deliberately pits officials against each other to prevent anyone from challenging the Emperor's power.Can we sympathize with villains without excusing them? We discussed humanizing Imperial characters while holding them accountable for their violent choices.Other Topics Covered:

• Syril's parallel to Javert from Les Misérables
• How the Rebellion operates differently than the Empire
• The Emperor's invisible but constant presence in Imperial decisions
• Why redemption arcs should be rare for fascist collaborators
• Violence as the true governing principle under authoritarianism

Understanding characters like Syril isn't about excusing fascism—it's about recognizing how ordinary people can be drawn into extraordinary evil and the importance of making moral choices when systems encourage us to look away.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Matthew and Riki dive into Severance Season 2, exploring the philosophical questions raised about identity, consciousness, and corporate culture while examining where the show succeeds and falls short in its sophomore season.Is Season 2 Living Up to the Promise of Season 1?
Both hosts acknowledge feeling somewhat let down by Season 2, with Riki noting it "asks more questions than it answers" in typical mystery box fashion. While the first season brilliantly established the premise of people separating their work and personal consciousness, the second season prioritizes expanding the mysterious corporate lore rather than fully exploring the ethical questions at its core.What Makes Someone a "Real" Person?
The most compelling aspect of Severance remains its exploration of what constitutes personhood. The show presents characters whose consciousness is split between "innies" (work selves) and "outies" (outside selves), raising profound questions about which version is the "real" person and whether eliminating one version constitutes a form of death. The hosts particularly praise Dylan's storyline, where his innie falls in love with his outie's wife, creating a fascinating ethical dilemma about identity and relationships.Does the Show Fall Into Problematic Tropes?
Riki points out how the season finale's romantic choice falls into troubling tropes, with Mark S choosing Helly over his wife Gemma. The hosts discuss the racial implications of this storyline, noting how it perpetuates patterns where Asian women are portrayed as "damsels in distress" rather than equal romantic partners. This choice undermines the more profound philosophical questions about identity by reducing them to a conventional love triangle.Other Topics Covered

• The show's "mystery box" approach and whether it delivers satisfying answers
• Office culture representation and corporate cults as commentary on modern tech companies
• Character development for Harmony Cobel and the mysterious Miss Wong
• The metaphorical significance of severance in our own compartmentalized lives
• Comparison to shows like Dollhouse that explore similar themes of identity
• The cinematography and standout episodes from Season 2

The hosts conclude that while Severance Season 2 has moments of brilliance, particularly in episodes like Harmony Cobel's hometown visit, it ultimately prioritizes expanding its mysterious lore over answering the profound ethical questions that made the first season so compelling. Though both hosts express disappointment with certain aspects of the season, they remain intrigued enough to continue following the series and its exploration of identity, corporate culture, and consciousness.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Star Wars and Superhero Ethics Crossover Episode: Andor Season 2While I try to keep the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics podcasts separate, with Andor hitting so many of the themes we talk about on Superhero Ethics, I wanted to share our first episode about Andor Season 2 with you all.The hosts of Star Wars Generations dive deep into the first three episodes of Andor Season 2, which premiered with a triple-episode release. Matthew, Erin, and Alex explore how the show immediately establishes its political commentary and continues its unflinching portrayal of life under the Empire's fascist regime.What makes Andor Season 2 so politically charged?Within the first five minutes, the show tackles current political issues through its storytelling. The hosts discuss how the plot involving undocumented workers (referred to explicitly as not having "visas") on a farming planet directly parallels real-world immigration issues. The Empire's plan to exploit the planet Ghorman for resources regardless of environmental or human cost also serves as commentary on resource exploitation and colonialism.How does the show portray different facets of the Empire?The podcast hosts examine how the show depicts various characters within the Imperial system. From Dedra and Syril's domestic life to the cold Imperial board meetings with Krennic, the series demonstrates how ordinary people participate in and enable fascist regimes. The stark contrast between the comfortable lives of Imperial officers and the struggling rebels highlights the inequality within the Star Wars universe.What connections to the wider Star Wars universe appear in these episodes?The hosts identify several connections to the animated series Rebels, including Cassian stealing what appears to be a TIE Interceptor (a project championed by Grand Admiral Thrawn) and the mention of Ghorman (which Mon Mothma later condemns the Empire for abusing in Rebels). They theorize these connections may lead to appearances from characters like Thrawn or depict events referenced in other Star Wars media.Other topics discussed:

• The controversial scene involving attempted sexual assault against Bix and its portrayal of power abuse within the Empire
• Mon Mothma's storyline involving Chandrilan wedding traditions and her strained family relationships
• Brasso's death and the ambiguity around whether Andor was responsible
• The portrayal of squabbling rebel factions on Yavin 4 and what it says about resistance movements
• The parallels between the lavish Chandrilan wedding ceremony and the violence occurring simultaneously on other planets
• Dedra and Syril's domestic relationship and interactions with his mother
• The Imperial strategy meeting discussing how to create justifications for destroying Ghorman

The hosts conclude that while some storylines (particularly the Yavin 4 sequence) felt somewhat drawn out, the overall quality of the show remains exceptional. They express excitement about where the season is heading and how it will connect to the events of Rogue One, noting that these early episodes have already paid off some of their predictions while setting up compelling new storylines.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Matthew and Riki welcome special guest Mandy Kaplan, comedian and host of the Make Me a Nerd podcast. They explore the journey of discovering nerd culture later in life, breaking down stereotypes about who gets to be a "nerd," and examining how mainstream and geek culture continue to merge in surprising ways.What defines someone as a "nerd" in today's culture?
Mandy describes herself as a "mainstream mom" who loves Taylor Swift and Housewives but had always shied away from Star Wars, Star Trek, and other traditional nerd culture. Approaching 50, she decided to explore this world through her podcast, where guests introduce her to their favorite nerdy media. Matthew and Riki discuss how the definition of "nerd" has evolved, suggesting it's less about what you're interested in and more about how deeply you engage with it—whether that's creating charts about Star Trek planets or Top Chef recipes.How accessible should nerd media be to newcomers?
The hosts discuss the balance between creating media for longtime fans versus welcoming newcomers. Mandy shares how she's learned to forgive herself for not understanding all the lore and background in some properties, instead focusing on the elements she can enjoy. They agree the best media works on multiple levels—like Sesame Street appealing to both children and adults—allowing both newcomers and devoted fans to find something meaningful.How has the perception of nerd culture changed over generations?
Matthew reflects on growing up when nerds were socially ostracized, contrasting with today when Marvel movies dominate the box office. They discuss how the internet and streaming services have transformed nerd culture from niche to mainstream, creating communities for people who might not excel in traditional social settings. Riki points out how fantasy sports have bridged the traditional gap between "jocks" and "nerds."What unexpected connections do people find in nerd culture?
The conversation highlights surprising moments of connection, like Mandy's encounter with a "Kardashian-looking" stranger who enthusiastically discussed the same fantasy novel she was reading. They explore how media that might seem designed for specific demographics often resonates across unexpected audiences when given a chance.Other topics discussed:

• The stigma attached to certain media and how it affects people's willingness to try new things
• How streaming services have revolutionized access to niche content
• The philosophical and ethical questions embedded in science fiction and fantasy
• The blurring lines between traditional "nerdy" activities and mainstream interests
• The gatekeeping sometimes found in fan communities and why it's problematic
• How fantasy sports represent a form of nerdy engagement that's become widely accepted
• Shows like Severance and The Orville that surprised Mandy with their emotional depth

The Power of Curiosity Over Judgment
The episode concludes with a reflection on approaching media with curiosity rather than judgment. Matthew quotes Ted Lasso's speech about being curious instead of judgmental, applying it to how we engage with different forms of entertainment. Mandy emphasizes how her podcast isn't about criticizing beloved franchises but finding what resonates personally, even in unexpected places. The hosts celebrate how nerd culture continues to expand and welcome new fans, creating connections across different interests and generations.Check out Mandy’s podcast Make Me a Nerd, also on the TruStory FM podcast network.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

"Women in Refrigerators": Understanding Fridging in Superhero MediaIn this eye-opening episode of Superhero Ethics, hosts Matthew and Riki tackle the controversial topic of "fridging" with special guest Jessica Plummer, a comic book historian with expertise in gender representation. The term "fridging," coined by comic writer Gail Simone in 1999, refers to the killing, maiming, or assault of female characters primarily to advance a male character's storyline.What exactly is fridging and where did the term come from?The term "women in refrigerators" originated from a 1994 Green Lantern issue where Kyle Rayner's girlfriend Alexandra DeWitt was murdered and stuffed in a refrigerator by villain Major Force. This served solely to motivate Kyle's character development and revenge arc. The podcast explores how this pattern repeats across comics, films, and TV shows, with female characters frequently introduced only to be brutalized for male character development.Why is fridging problematic beyond just character death?The discussion highlights how fridging isn't just about women dying - it's about the specific ways their bodies are violated and displayed, often in sexualized or gratuitously violent ways. The hosts examine how female characters are disproportionately subjected to these fates compared to male characters, despite already being underrepresented in superhero media to begin with.How does fridging differ from other character deaths?The podcast examines the key differences between fridging and other character deaths. Male characters often die heroically in battle with "noble sacrifices" and frequently return from death, while female characters are more commonly assaulted in domestic settings like kitchens, portrayed as helpless victims rather than heroes making choices, and rarely return from death.What about fridging and race in media?The conversation expands to discuss similar patterns with characters of color, who are often introduced as side characters only to be killed to motivate white protagonists. While the panel debates whether "fridging" should specifically refer to violence against women or could apply more broadly, they agree the core issue is about which characters get to be protagonists versus disposable plot devices.Other topics discussed:

• The original Green Lantern fridging incident that gave the trope its name
• How Black Widow's death in Avengers: Endgame exhibits elements of fridging
• The repeated visual motif of female character deaths (like Gwen Stacy's fall)
• Examples of media that subvert fridging expectations, like John Wick and Daredevil
• How some characters have "climbed out of the fridge" through character resurrection and reimagining
• Writers and creators who have worked to challenge and change this trope
• The relationship between shock value and fridging

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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Finding the Balance Between Innovation and AuthenticityMatthew and Riki dive into the complex world of remakes, reboots, and adaptations. The discussion was inspired by Matthew's disappointment with the new Daredevil series and explores why some re-imaginings work while others fall flat.What Makes a Good Adaptation?According to the hosts, successful adaptations require genuine passion for the source material. They highlight Kevin Feige's love for comics as a driving force behind the MCU's success and contrast this with productions where creators seem embarrassed by their source material. Matthew emphasizes that good adaptations honor the "spirit" of the original rather than just visual elements—citing Star Trek as an example where maintaining themes and philosophy matters more than exact visual recreation.Key Questions Discussed

• How important is "faithfulness" to source material, and what does that actually mean?
• When is it appropriate to modernize elements of older stories?
• How should adaptations handle characters tied to specific historical events?
• What's the difference between lovingly poking fun at source material versus seeming embarrassed by it?
• Should problematic character elements be removed or updated in modern adaptations?
• How do we balance creator freedom with fan expectations?

Notable Examples Explored

• The success of One Piece's live-action adaptation versus other anime adaptations
• How Star Wars maintains visual consistency while evolving its lightsaber choreography
• The growing legitimacy of video game adaptations
• How the Batman character has been interpreted differently across generations
• Race and gender-swapping characters in adaptations

The conversation highlights that with characters that have existed across decades and multiple media, there is rarely one "true version"—just different interpretations that speak to different audiences in different ways.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

Robin Hood & Heist Movies: Why Do We Love Stealing from the Rich?Matthew and Riki dive into the enduring appeal of Robin Hood stories and modern heist films. Sparked by Riki's rewatch of Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, the conversation explores why stories about stealing from the wealthy continue to resonate across centuries—and why the ultra-rich who run Hollywood keep funding them.Why does the Robin Hood myth remain so powerful?The hosts trace the origins of Robin Hood back to the 12th-13th centuries, noting how the original tale wasn't about overthrowing the system entirely but rather supporting what was seen as legitimate authority (King Richard) against corrupt power (King John and the Sheriff of Nottingham). This pattern continues in modern heist stories, where criminals often end up supporting the status quo rather than truly revolutionizing society.How do heist films differ from traditional Robin Hood stories?Modern heist films like Ocean's Eleven often maintain the "steal from the rich" element but abandon the "give to the poor" aspect. Instead, protagonists typically keep the money for themselves or use it to help a small circle of associates. Nevertheless, audiences still root for these thieves because they target wealthy individuals who are portrayed as having obtained their fortune through questionable means.Why do wealthy studios keep making movies about stealing from the rich?Matthew and Riki suggest these films might function as "bread and circuses"—entertainment that distracts the masses while preserving existing power structures. Most heist narratives conclude by restoring the status quo rather than challenging it fundamentally, allowing wealthy stakeholders to profit from stories of rebellion without promoting actual systemic change.Other topics discussed:

• The evolution of the "putting together a team" trope in heist films
• How heist movies typically avoid lethal violence, unlike many Robin Hood adaptations
• The "heart of gold" outlaw character archetype in pirate stories and Star Wars
• The pattern of former antagonists joining the hero's team in franchises like The Fast & the Furious
• How the Robin Hood brand has been co-opted for everything from financial transaction taxes to cryptocurrency platforms
• Modern adaptations like Green Arrow and Leverage that continue the Robin Hood tradition

The Robin Hood narrative has shown remarkable staying power because it speaks to fundamental human desires for justice and fairness. While these stories rarely champion revolutionary change, they provide a satisfying fantasy of accountability in a world where economic inequality continues to grow. Whether through traditional tales or modern heist films, the thrill of watching the wealthy and powerful get their comeuppance remains an enduring part of our storytelling tradition.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – Propaganda, Complicity, and Haymitch's StoryIn this episode of Superhero Ethics, hosts Matthew and Riki welcome special guest Danielle from WrittenInTheStarWars to dive deep into Suzanne Collins’ newest novel in The Hunger Games franchise, Sunrise on the Reaping. The trio explores how this prequel reveals the true story behind Haymitch Abernathy’s Games and challenges what readers thought they knew from the original trilogy.What makes Suzanne Collins’ writing unique in YA literature?The hosts discuss Collins’ masterful use of first-person narrative, with Danielle highlighting how Collins understands both the strengths and weaknesses of this perspective. Her intentional structuring of chapters and story arcs keeps readers engaged while delivering complex themes accessible to young adults without oversimplifying them. The conversation explores Collins’ famous quote: “I don’t write about adolescents. I write about war for adolescents.”How does propaganda shape the story in Panem?Sunrise on the Reaping reveals how the Capitol manipulates narratives, showing that what Katniss learned about Haymitch’s Games was heavily edited propaganda. The book explores how different forms of propaganda work—from entertainment spectacles to subtle messaging that convinces citizens the Games are necessary for peace. Characters like Effie Trinket demonstrate how effective this indoctrination can be, while others show resistance to these manufactured stories.What do we learn about Haymitch as a character?The novel provides a stark contrast between the real Haymitch and the persona crafted by Capitol editors. Readers discover he was someone who refused to think of other tributes as enemies, consistently protected others, and maintained his humanity throughout the Games. The book also reveals his tragic journey toward alcoholism, showing how it began as medical treatment before becoming his coping mechanism for trauma and loss.Other topics discussed:

• How Maysilee Donner evolves from a "mean girl" to one of the book’s most compelling characters
• Why Collins may have written this book now as a response to current political events
• The difference between how Haymitch’s relationship with Maysilee was portrayed in propaganda versus reality
• The careful way Collins handles familiar characters from the original trilogy appearing in the prequel
• The humanity of Career tributes and how they too are victims of the Capitol’s system
• The theme of complicity and how everyone in Panem’s system becomes part of maintaining its horrors

The conversation concludes by reflecting on how Collins uses her storytelling to encourage readers to question propaganda in their own lives and recognize complicity in unjust systems. By revisiting Haymitch’s Games, she reminds us that history is often written by the victors—but truth can be a powerful tool for rebellion.Links
Follow these links to earlier discussions on The Hunger Games with Danielle:

1. The Hunger Games
2. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

In this episode of Superhero Ethics, hosts Matthew and Riki analyze HBO's The Penguin series starring Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti. Set in Matt Reeves' Batman universe following the events of The Batman movie, the show explores the power vacuum left in Gotham's criminal underworld after the fall of crime boss Carmine Falcone.What makes Oz Cobb a compelling villain protagonist?The hosts discuss how the series portrays Oswald "Oz" Cobb (The Penguin) as a complex character who constantly shifts between sympathetic and monstrous. Unlike previous iterations that leaned into fantastical elements, this Penguin is grounded as a mobster with a physical disability who uses his exceptional charisma and manipulation skills to climb Gotham's criminal ladder. The show reveals his troubled childhood, including his complicated relationship with his mother and the shocking revelation that he was responsible for his brothers' deaths.How does The Penguin explore themes of respect and power?Matthew and Riki examine how Oz's actions are driven by his desperate need for respect and recognition. The series shows how he positions himself as a champion for the neglected citizens of Crown Point—getting electricity restored to the neighborhood while simultaneously building his criminal empire. This "crime socialism" approach allows him to frame himself as fighting for fairness and equality within the criminal world, convincing lower-level criminals to revolt against their bosses and support him instead.What makes the relationship between Oz and Victor so central to the story?The hosts highlight how the mentor-protégé relationship between Penguin and Victor Aguilar serves as the emotional core of the series. Though toxic and complicated—with Penguin both bullying Victor for his stutter while fiercely defending him from others who do the same—their bond provides some of the most compelling moments in the show. The hosts note interesting parallels to the Batman-Robin dynamic, positioning it as a dark mirror of that heroic relationship.Other topics covered in the episode:

• How Cristin Milioti's Sophia Falcone serves as a compelling antagonist with her own complex motivations for revenge
• The shocking finale twist and its implications for Penguin's character development
• The portrayal of Arkham Asylum and its problematic depiction of mental health institutions
• Connections to Matt Reeves' broader Batman universe and potential future storylines
• The grounded approach to classic Batman villains compared to previous adaptations
• How the show depicts crime families filling power vacuums—similar to real-world political situations

The Penguin demonstrates how villain-centered narratives can provide rich ethical territory to explore when characters are given depth and complexity. By examining the psychology and motivations behind traditionally one-dimensional villains, the show creates compelling television that challenges viewers to question their sympathies while never fully redeeming its monstrous protagonist.
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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: TheEthicalPanda
• Instagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcasts
• Twitter: EthicalPanda77
• Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.

Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast’s main page. You can even give membership as a gift!
You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:

• Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master Alan
• Use Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.
• Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.