Superhero Ethics

Join us as we delve into the ethical questions sparked by the Marvel series “What If…?” This episode features a discussion with Will and Steve from the Hype is my Superpower Podcast, where we explore the alternate realities and moral conundrums of the show.

Batman may face down the Joker, and Cap was ready to take on Thanos alone—but no hero is braver than the middle school teacher! Social studies teacher and longtime panda enthusiast Emily Cissell joins us to talk about how she uses comic books in her classroom.

Join Jessica Plummer and me as we explore the pivotal moments when Robin steps out from the Caped Crusader’s shadow. We discuss Tim Drake’s recent coming out, Dick Grayson’s struggle with his Robin identity, and Jason Todd’s efforts to forge his own path.

Paul Hoppe and Jessica Plummer join me to unravel the ethical conundrums presented in The Suicide Squad. We dissect character motivations, moral dilemmas, and the surprisingly deep layers within the film.

The tyrant has fallen, and the empire is no more—the story concludes, or does it? Join Paul Hoppe and me as we delve into the uncharted territories that sequels and prequels navigate. What does it take to extend a narrative beyond its original ending, and how does one craft a tale that maintains the spirit of the original while charting new courses?

Paul is back to explore the vibrant worlds of Luca and Raya and the Last Dragon. Together, we delve into the profound themes each movie presents, from trust and identity to queer representation and the intersection of legend with reality. We also challenge the notion that children’s movies are trivial by highlighting the powerful storytelling they offer. Join us as we uncover the wisdom woven into these animated tales.

Was the death of He Who Remains a necessity? Did Loki fall short in representing the queer community? And just how did “Thank you Daddy Disney” and “Schrödinger’s Kang” become part of our conversation? Paul Hoppe and Fox Kaye return to ponder these questions and more in our latest deep dive into the ethical quandaries of the Loki series.

Paul and Ashley team up with me to tackle the ethical questions posed in Black Widow. We delve into character agency, the cultural significance of the film, and the spectacularly chaotic falling fortress fight scenes.