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Superhero Ethics

Superhero Ethics

Exploring ethical questions from Superhero movies and TV shows, sci-fi, and everything else geeks love

  • 52 minutes 41 seconds
    Red One
    Red One: When Santa Goes Marvel (feat. Pete Wright)Is Amazon's $250 million Christmas blockbuster Red One a fresh take on holiday magic, or a cynical cash grab? Join Matthew and special guest Pete Wright as they unwrap this action-packed holiday film starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Chris Evans. From buff Santas to beach-fighting snowmen, this episode explores how Hollywood's attempt to "Marvelize" Christmas might have missed the spirit of the season.Did Red One forget what makes Christmas special? We dive deep into how the movie's attempt to universalize Santa Claus across all cultures reveals a concerning lack of cultural awareness. The hosts explore why forcing Christmas onto everyone – including those who don't celebrate it – feels particularly tone-deaf in our current social climate.What happens when you mix Marvel-style action with holiday mythology? We examine how J.K. Simmons' surprisingly buff Santa and the movie's fresh take on Krampus reshape traditional Christmas lore. The discussion weighs whether these creative choices enhance or diminish the heart of Christmas storytelling.Other topics covered:
    • The problematic implications of Santa's worldwide surveillance state
    • How the film handles redemption through Chris Evans' character arc
    • The surprising handling of Krampus as a complex character rather than pure villain
    • The film's uncomfortable relationship with body image and fitness
    • Whether this expensive holiday spectacle has any chance of becoming an annual 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.
    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.
    23 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 18 minutes
    Prey and Indigenous Representation
    Matthew and Riki dive deep into Indigenous representation in media, using the 2022 film Prey as a launching point for a broader discussion about the evolution of Native American portrayals in Hollywood. The conversation explores how this Predator franchise entry breaks new ground while honoring both the source material and Indigenous culture.How does Prey set a new standard for Indigenous representation? The hosts discuss the film's groundbreaking achievements, including its predominantly Native cast led by Amber Midthunder, authentic cultural consultation, and the historic creation of a Comanche language dub – a first in movie history. The discussion highlights how producer Jane Myers' involvement as a Comanche and Blackfoot consultant helped ensure cultural authenticity throughout production.What can we learn from revisiting Dances With Wolves (1990)? Riki presents a compelling case for reexamining the film's legacy, arguing that while imperfect, it represented a significant step forward in Native American representation. The hosts explore how the film launched the careers of prominent Native actors like Graham Greene and Wes Studi, while setting new standards for language authenticity and cultural portrayal in mainstream Hollywood.How do these films compare to other attempts at cultural representation? The conversation expands to examine other films like The Last Samurai and Avatar, discussing the complex dynamics of white savior narratives and the importance of authentic cultural consultation in historical dramas.Other topics covered:
    • The evolution of the Predator franchise and how Prey reinvents it
    • The role of French trappers in the film and their thematic significance
    • The importance of authentic language use in Indigenous films
    • The impact of Dances With Wolves on subsequent Native American representation in Hollywood
    • The complexities of casting Native actors across different tribal affiliations
    • The problematic aspects of The Last Samurai and its historical inaccuracies
    • The representation of Indigenous peoples in modern media and tourist culture
    The episode concludes by emphasizing the ongoing journey toward better Indigenous representation in media, highlighting both the progress made and the work still needed. While Prey represents a significant step forward, the hosts acknowledge that authentic representation requires continued commitment from the entertainment industry to elevate Indigenous voices both in front of and behind the camera.Use these links to get some of the books and movies we mention on the podcast, while helping us keep the lights on!
    **************************************************************************
    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.
    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.
    17 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    A Man on the Inside
    Paul and Matthew jump into the ethics of aging, mysteries, ‘cozy’ storytelling and the ways that elder care is treated in media as we discuss the new Netflix show A Man on the Inside.Bonus member content about some of our other favorite mystery shows and movies.Here is a link to the book Paul mentioned!
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    10 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 33 minutes
    Gundam and Fascism in Anime
    Join hosts Matthew and Riki as they analyze Netflix's Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance through the lens of ethics, narrative responsibility, the wider context of the Gundam story as a whole, and the implications of telling stories from the villains' perspective.This episode tackles a crucial question in modern media: When telling a story from an antagonist's perspective, what responsibility do creators have to make their moral stance clear? The hosts debate whether Requiem for Vengeance succeeds or fails at this task, with Matthew viewing it as an effective introduction to the broader Gundam universe, while Riki expresses serious concerns about its potential misinterpretation.How does historical context shape our understanding of fictional conflicts? The discussion explores how Gundam's Zeon forces draw from both Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan, raising questions about how media portrays historical villains and the risk of audiences misinterpreting or glorifying them.Can a story effectively humanize its villains without legitimizing their cause? The hosts examine protagonist Solari's character arc and debate whether her tragic choices serve the narrative or risk sending dangerous messages to viewers unfamiliar with Gundam's established canon.Other topics covered:
    • The evolution of animation technology and its reception by different audiences
    • The role of race and racism in the Gundam universe
    • How German imagery and references appear in anime
    • The challenges of creating prequels or new entry points to established franchises
    • The ethical implications of child soldiers in warfare
    • The connection between vengeance, grief, and moral decision-making
    Whether you're a longtime Gundam fan or completely new to the franchise, this episode examines how media can shape our understanding of conflict, justice, and the fine line between humanizing villains and valorizing their actions.Let us know your thoughts: Did you watch Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance? How did your prior knowledge (or lack thereof) of the Gundam universe affect your interpretation of the story?
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    3 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 24 minutes
    Cobra Kai, Season 6, Part 2 of 3
    Join hosts Matthew Fox and special guest Paul Hoppe as they dive deep into Cobra Kai Season 6, Part 2, discussing how the hit series continues to raise the stakes - sometimes to absurd levels. From international tournaments to shocking character developments, this episode explores how the show both succeeds and stumbles in its attempt to go global.Is Cobra Kai getting too far from its roots? The hosts discuss how the show has evolved from its simple beginnings focused on local karate rivalries to an international tournament with increasingly dramatic stakes. They explore whether this expansion helps or hurts the core narrative that made the series special.What makes a realistic martial arts tournament? Drawing on Paul's extensive martial arts experience, the episode examines how the show's portrayal of competition differs from reality, particularly regarding safety protocols and fighter conduct. The hosts question the plausibility of full-contact matches without protective gear on elevated platforms.How does the show handle representation? The discussion delves into Cobra Kai's approach to international characters and Asian representation, examining both progress made and continuing challenges in how different cultures and martial arts styles are portrayed.Other topics covered:
    • The complex dynamics between Johnny, Miguel, and Robbie
    • The controversial storyline involving Mr. Miyagi's past
    • Character development (or lack thereof) for new additions like Zara and Kwon
    • The show's handling of serious themes vs high school drama
    • Production challenges with aging young actors
    • The implications of the season's shocking ending
    The hosts conclude by speculating about what Part 3 might bring and whether the series can find its way back to the character-driven storytelling that made it successful. Note: No Bonus Content for members this week.
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    26 November 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 19 minutes
    WTF? The Ending(s) of Neon Genesis Evangelion
    Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi explore the profound philosophical themes and controversial endings of the influential anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion. From its groundbreaking original TV finale to the theatrical response film The End of Evangelion, we unpack how creator Hideaki Anno's personal struggles with depression shaped one of anime's most debated conclusions.What makes the controversial ending of Neon Genesis Evangelion so impactful? We examine how the series transforms from a traditional mecha anime into a deeply psychological exploration of depression, trauma, and self-acceptance. The final two episodes abandon conventional narrative for an internal journey into protagonist Shinji's psyche, culminating in a powerful message about choosing individual identity over collective consciousness.How does The End of Evangelion serve as both a response to fan backlash and an artistic statement? We discuss how the theatrical film offers a darker, more explicit version of the TV ending while incorporating actual death threats and hate mail the creators received. The movie provides closure for plot threads while still challenging audience expectations about what they want versus what the artist needs to express.Why does this series continue to resonate with audiences decades later? We explore how Anno's authentic portrayal of depression and journey toward self-acceptance created something far more profound than typical genre fare, even if it frustrated fans at the time.Other topics covered:
    • The cultural context and potential issues around the show's use of Jewish & Christian imagery
    • The significance of the Human Instrumentality Project as a metaphor for social anxiety and isolation
    • Key character arcs including Asuka, Misato, and Kaworu
    • Production challenges and budget constraints that influenced the original ending
    • Parallels to modern fan backlash against subversive works like The Last Jedi
    • The series' complex exploration of sexuality and coming-of-age themes
    • How both endings ultimately convey similar messages about self-acceptance through different means
    Whether you're a longtime Eva fan or newcomer to the series, this episode offers fresh insights into one of anime's most analyzed and debated conclusions. More than just a reaction to the ending, we examine how Evangelion's themes of depression, identity, and artistic integrity remain deeply relevant to modern audiences and creators.
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    19 November 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 28 minutes
    The Politics of Watchmen
    Drew Maxey, (drewxdeficit on Twitter and TikTok) joins Riki and Matthew to discuss the political messaging of Watchmen, what it means for us today, and why it is so often misunderstood. We talk about the valorization by many fans of Rorschach that misses so much of his character, how the movie changed things, and Ozymandias’ decision, among other topics. Then Matthew goes on a rant and Riki and Drew do their best to humor them. Drew Maxey is an educator who loves, teaches, and writes comics. His professional comics debut will be a short holiday story in the Batman Smells, Robin Laid an Egg anthology, released December 4th. He will talk about Watchmen until he's Dr. Manhattan blue in the face.
    To hear more of Drew’s content about Watchmen and other topics, find him on TikTok & Instagram, or go here To get Drew's Watchmen Chapter 1 movie commentary, donate to the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund then email a receipt of your donation to Drew.
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    12 November 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 24 minutes
    Rebroadcast • Ethics of the Final Frontier
    REBROADCAST: Space: The Final Frontier. This concept has been integral to America's self-identity, symbolizing exploration and adventure—and the myriad issues arising from the perception of "undiscovered country" as land untouched by white man. Professor Matthew Wilhelm Kapell joins Paul and me to discuss the significance of the frontier and how Star Trek has interacted with this theme throughout its many iterations.We encountered some sound quality issues in this episode for which we apologize. We are committed to continuous improvement and aim to enhance the listening experience with each episode.Matthew Wilhelm Kapell boasts a diverse teaching portfolio, ranging from human genetics to film studies across institutions in California, Michigan, the UK, and currently at Pace University in New York City. He is the editor of an academic book series focusing on the study of digital and tabletop games. For more information on his publications and work, visit matthewkapell.com. His academic approach is mindful of the perspective that many narratives framed as "Hero's Journeys" are equally "Heroine's Ordeals."
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    5 November 2024, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 36 minutes
    The Ethics of Sportsball Fandom
    Special Guest Paul Hoppe joins Riki and Matthew to explore the intersection of professional sports, fandom, and ethics, what makes us care deeply about "25 people playing with a ball hundreds of miles away."The conversation delves into fundamental questions about sports' role in society: Can athletics be a force for positive social change, as seen with Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's color barrier? Or does the commercialization of sports, exemplified by the Oakland A's controversial move to Las Vegas, betray fan communities? The hosts explore how the unscripted drama of sports creates powerful shared experiences, from healing after 9/11 to forging family bonds.When should athletes speak out on social issues? The hosts examine the contrast between LeBron James's advocacy for Black Lives Matter and Aaron Rodgers's false vaccine statements, discussing where to draw the line between personal expertise and platform responsibility.Other key topics covered:
    • The ethics of public funding for private sports stadiums
    • Sports team ownership models and their impact on communities
    • The evolution of Asian player representation in Major League Baseball
    • The problematic aspects of sports culture, from domestic violence to health risks
    • The intersection of sports with family dynamics and identity
    • The term "sportsball" and gatekeeping in fan communities
    • Olympic moments that showcase athletic respect and sportsmanship
    The episode concludes by finding middle ground between uncritical fandom and complete rejection of sports, acknowledging that fans can appreciate athletics while remaining mindful of institutional problems. As Matthew notes, like religion, sports can be a source of both community good and systemic issues - the key is engaging thoughtfully rather than dismissing either extreme.Want to join the conversation about ethics in pop culture? Subscribe to Superhero Ethics and let us know what you think!Curious about the media we talked about? Want to help support the podcast? Use these links to purchase any of the following movies, books, or TV shows!Links
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    29 October 2024, 10:00 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    Terminator Zero
    Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi explore the fascinating world of Terminator: Zero, a new anime series that breathes fresh life into the iconic Terminator franchise and challenges our perceptions of AI, time travel, and the very essence of humanity.Is Skynet truly the villain, or are humans the real threat? Matthew and Riki dissect the show's central premise, questioning the traditional narrative of AI as an inherent danger to humanity. They explore how Terminator: Zero presents a nuanced view of artificial intelligence through the character of Kokoro, a second AI created to combat Skynet.How does setting the story in Japan change the Terminator narrative? The hosts applaud the show's decision to move beyond the typical American-centric approach, offering a global perspective on the AI apocalypse. They discuss how this shift allows for fresh storytelling and character development.Can anime revitalize aging franchises? Matthew and Riki examine the benefits of using animation to tell complex sci-fi stories, particularly in terms of budget constraints and creative freedom. They ponder whether this approach could breathe new life into other beloved franchises.Other topics covered include:
    • The evolution of time travel concepts in the Terminator franchise
    • The quality of voice acting in anime dubs vs. subs
    • Ethical implications of creating AI with emotions
    • Parallels between AI and historical human conflicts
    • The show's portrayal of gender roles in AI development

    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    22 October 2024, 10:00 am
  • 1 hour 32 minutes
    Mike Flanagan and Horror as Social Commentary
    The Horror of Being Human: Mike Flanagan's Masterful Approach to TerrorPrepare to be thrilled and chilled as we dive into the eerie world of Mike Flanagan's horror masterpieces! Join hosts Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi, along with returning guest Danielle, aka (WrittenintheSW).What makes Mike Flanagan's horror so uniquely captivating? We explore how Flanagan uses supernatural elements as a lens to examine profound human experiences, from grief and trauma to faith and family dynamics. His ability to blend genuine scares with deep emotional resonance sets his work apart in the horror genre.How does Flanagan's Catholic background influence his storytelling? We discuss the religious themes in Midnight Mass and how they reflect broader questions about belief, manipulation, and the human condition. Danielle shares her perspective as someone raised Catholic, offering insights into the show's nuanced portrayal of faith.Key topics covered:
    • The innovative cinematography techniques used in The Haunting of Hill House
    • Character development and stellar performances across Flanagan's series
    • The brilliant adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's works in The Fall of the House of Usher
    • Flanagan's approach to diverse representation and collaboration with actors
    • The impact of Flanagan's work on the horror genre as a whole
    From hidden ghosts to heartrending monologues, we break down the elements that make Flanagan's horror both terrifying and profoundly moving. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or new to the genre, this episode offers a fascinating look at how horror can be used to explore the deepest aspects of human nature.Join us for a thought-provoking journey through Mike Flanagan's haunting universes and discover why his approach to horror continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
    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!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!
    15 October 2024, 10:00 am
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