Popcorn & Patriarchy | Feminist Film Review & Creative Confidence Podcast

Evulve Productions

🍿 Film reviews through a feminist lens 🎬 Where cinema meets culture & power 💋 Episodes & creative challenges 👇 Hosted by filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions, Esme Michaela, and actor Joe Coates. Produced by Evulve Productions.

Episodes

  1. 17h ago

    The Color Purple (2023) - Inspired to Create | Ep.5b

    🎬 The creative challenge episode. A companion film discussion exploring the film through a feminist lens is also available. 🍿💋 Inspired by 'The Color Purple' (2023), this episode invites listeners to move from analysis to action. Esme and Joe set a creative challenge designed to help you build confidence, experiment with ideas, and make your own work - whether you’re a filmmaker, writer, performer, or simply feeling creatively curious. Joe's full, unedited, copyright-full song can be found here: https://youtu.be/gR0S5RMDEPo Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. Thank you to our Sponsor, Rubycup, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ruby Cup makes sustainable period products, including their iconic menstrual cup that lasts up to ten years, and their period underwear, both designed to cut down on waste and save you money in the long run. They're top rated on Trustpilot and perfect for active lifestyles, whether you're at the gym, in the pool, or on a long run. And here's what makes Ruby Cup really special: they give back in a big way. Every cup purchased funds a free cup for someone experiencing period poverty, and every pair of period underwear sold helps fund a nursery in Kenya. Shopping with them genuinely makes a difference. So, what are you waiting for?! For 15% off, use code: EVULVE15 OR our affiliate link: https://rubycup.com/discount/EVULVE15 Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/

  2. Sep 3

    The Color Purple (2023) - Through a Feminist Lens | Ep.5a

    🎥 The film discussion episode. A companion creative challenge inspired by this film will also be available. 🍿💋 This episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy explores 'The Color Purple' (2023) through a feminist and intersectional lens. Hosts Esme Michaela - filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions - and actor, Joe Coates, examine the film’s themes, politics, representation, and cultural impact, asking what it gets right, what it gets wrong, and why it still matters. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. Want even more? Join our Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, post-episode discussions, and exclusive access to all things Popcorn & Patriarchy. Thank you to our Sponsor, Rubycup, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ruby Cup makes sustainable period products, including their iconic menstrual cup that lasts up to ten years, and their period underwear, both designed to cut down on waste and save you money in the long run. They're top rated on Trustpilot and perfect for active lifestyles, whether you're at the gym, in the pool, or on a long run. And here's what makes Ruby Cup really special: they give back in a big way. Every cup purchased funds a free cup for someone experiencing period poverty, and every pair of period underwear sold helps fund a nursery in Kenya. Shopping with them genuinely makes a difference. So, what are you waiting for?! For 15% off, use code: EVULVE15 OR our affiliate link: https://rubycup.com/discount/EVULVE15 Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - ⁠https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/⁠ Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA

  3. Aug 20

    Don't Look Up (2021) - Inspired to Create | Ep.4b | Feat. Ruby Layla Redford

    🎬 The creative challenge episode. A companion film discussion exploring the film through a feminist lens is also available. 🍿💋 Inspired by 'Don't Look Up' (2021), this episode invites listeners to move from analysis to action. Esme and Joe set a creative challenge designed to help you build confidence, experiment with ideas, and make your own work - whether you’re a filmmaker, writer, performer, or simply feeling creatively curious. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. A huge thank you to our very special guest, Ruby Layla Redford, for joining us on this episode! Check them out @btwitsrubyredford on Instagram or @btwitsruby on TikTok! Thank you to our Sponsor, Ivan Weiss Photography, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ivan provides a stunning customised headshot and portrait service out of his central London studio. He is celebrated across the industry for his signature ‘ Table Portraits’ and has photographed high profile actors, corporate executives and creatives. He is truly a jack of all trades! If you want to view his spectacular portfolio or book your own session, head over to his website - https://ivanweiss.london/book-headshot-session - or check out his stunning work via @IvanWeiss.london on Instagram. You can use the link along with the code 'POPCORN15' to get 15% off of your booking, so upgrade your portfolio today with Ivan Weiss Photography! Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/ Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA

  4. Aug 6

    Don't Look Up (2021) - Through a Feminist Lens | Ep.4a

    🎥 The film discussion episode. A companion creative challenge inspired by this film will also be available. 🍿💋 This episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy explores 'Don't Look Up' (2021) through a feminist and intersectional lens. Hosts Esme Michaela - filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions - and actor, Joe Coates, examine the film’s themes, politics, representation, and cultural impact, asking what it gets right, what it gets wrong, and why it still matters. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. Want even more? Join our Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, post-episode discussions, and exclusive access to all things Popcorn & Patriarchy. Thank you to our Sponsor, Ivan Weiss Photography, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ivan provides a stunning customised headshot and portrait service out of his central London studio. He is celebrated across the industry for his signature ‘ Table Portraits’ and has photographed high profile actors, corporate executives and creatives. He is truly a jack of all trades! If you want to view his spectacular portfolio or book your own session, head over to his website - https://ivanweiss.london/book-headshot-session - or check out his stunning work via @IvanWeiss.london on Instagram. You can use the link along with the code 'POPCORN15' to get 15% off of your booking, so upgrade your portfolio today with Ivan Weiss Photography! Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - ⁠https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/⁠ Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA

  5. Jul 23

    Sinners (2025) - Inspired to Create | Ep.3b

    🎬 The creative challenge episode. A companion film discussion exploring the film through a feminist lens is also available. 🍿💋 Inspired by 'Sinners' (2025), this episode invites listeners to move from analysis to action. Esme and Joe set a creative challenge designed to help you build confidence, experiment with ideas, and make your own work - whether you’re a filmmaker, writer, performer, or simply feeling creatively curious. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. Thank you to our Sponsor, Ivan Weiss Photography, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ivan provides a stunning customised headshot and portrait service out of his central London studio. He is celebrated across the industry for his signature ‘ Table Portraits’ and has photographed high profile actors, corporate executives and creatives. He is truly a jack of all trades! If you want to view his spectacular portfolio or book your own session, head over to his website - https://ivanweiss.london/book-headshot-session - or check out his stunning work via @IvanWeiss.london on Instagram. You can use the link along with the code 'POPCORN15' to get 15% off of your booking, so upgrade your portfolio today with Ivan Weiss Photography! Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/ Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA

  6. Jul 9

    Sinners (2025) - Through a Feminist Lens | Ep.3a

    🎥 The film discussion episode. A companion creative challenge inspired by this film will also be available.🍿💋 This episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy explores 'Sinners' (2025) through a feminist and intersectional lens.Hosts Esme Michaela - filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions - and actor, Joe Coates, examine the film’s themes, politics, representation, and cultural impact, asking what it gets right, what it gets wrong, and why it still matters.Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration.Want even more? Join our Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, post-episode discussions, and exclusive access to all things Popcorn & Patriarchy.Thank you to our Sponsor, Ivan Weiss Photography, for supporting this episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. Ivan provides a stunning customised headshot and portrait service out of his central London studio. He iscelebrated across the industry for his signature ‘ Table Portraits’ and has photographed high profile actors, corporate executives and creatives. He is truly a jack of all trades! If you want to view his spectacular portfolio or book your own session, head over to his website - https://ivanweiss.london/book-headshot-session - or check out his stunning work via @IvanWeiss.london on Instagram. You can use the link along with the code 'POPCORN15' to get 15% off of your booking, so upgrade your portfolio today with Ivan Weiss Photography! Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchyFind our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd - https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA...

  7. Jul 2

    Should a Man Write the Drama about the Sarah Everard Case? Our Take on the BBC Controversy | Bonus Episode

    🎙️ A special bonus episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy. 🍿💋 This week, Esme and Joe step away from their usual film discussion and creative challenge format to unpack a major debate in the UK screen industry. Following the BBC's decision to commission a drama about Sarah Everard, more than 400 female screenwriters signed an open letter criticising the appointment of a male writer. Esme and Joe explore the arguments on both sides, discuss why they disagree with the letter's central position, and ask broader questions about authorship, representation, and who gets to tell whose stories. As always, the conversation is thoughtful, feminist, and unafraid to challenge assumptions—even when those assumptions come from within the creative industries themselves. This episode discusses violence against women and girls, sexual violence, domestic abuse, and policing. If anything raised in this conversation affects you, support is available via the resources below: Film & TV Support Line (free & confidential, available 24/7) 📞 0800 054 0000 🌐 filmtvcharity.org.uk National Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Refuge, 24/7) 📞 0808 2000 247 🌐 nationaldahelpline.org.uk Rape Crisis England & Wales (free helpline & online support) 📞 0808 500 2222 🌐 rapecrisis.org.uk National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Galop) 📞 0800 999 5428 🌐 galop.org.uk Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service (run by Crimestoppers – completely anonymous) 📞 0800 085 0000 🌐 crimestoppers-uk.org Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) (independent of the police, investigates serious complaints) 🌐 policeconduct.gov.uk Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. Want even more? Join our Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, post-episode discussions, and exclusive access to all things Popcorn & Patriarchy. 📲 Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy 🎞️ Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/ ☎️ Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA

  8. Jun 25

    PRIDE (2014) – Inspired to Create | Ep.2b | Feat. Tazmyn-Mei Gebbett

    🎬 The creative challenge episode. A companion film discussion exploring the film through a feminist lens is also available. 🍿💋 Inspired by 'PRIDE' (2014), this episode invites listeners to move from analysis to action. Esme and Joe set a creative challenge designed to help you build confidence, experiment with ideas, and make your own work - whether you’re a filmmaker, writer, performer, or simply feeling creatively curious. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. This episode is proudly supported by Switchboard, the UK's national LGBTQIA+ support line. As Switchboard puts it, they exist to create a space where people can "explore, talk and be truly heard." For over 50 years, their trained LGBTQIA+ volunteers have provided confidential support, helping people navigate questions around identity, relationships, sexual health, and life in general with compassion and understanding. If you or someone you know could benefit from support, Switchboard is available every day from 10am–10pm. You can call 0800 0119 100, email hello@switchboard.lgbt, use their web chat, or find more information at www.switchboard.lgbt. You can also follow their work on Instagram and Facebook at @switchboardlgbt. A huge thank you to Switchboard for sponsoring us and supporting independent feminist media and helping us foster conversations rooted in empathy, creativity, and community. We'd also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Tazmyn-Mei Gebbett for joining us on this episode and bringing the most perfect, queer chaos into the creative challenge this week! Follow Tazmyn-Mei on Instagram at @TazmynMei or @TeaBooksAndTazmyn, or on TikTok at @TazmynMei Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/) Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration.(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA)

  9. Jun 11

    PRIDE (2014) – Through a Feminist Lens | (Ep. 2a) | Feat. Tash Walker

    🎥 The film discussion episode. A companion creative challenge inspired by this film is also available. 🍿💋 This episode of Popcorn & Patriarchy explores 'PRIDE' through a feminist and intersectional lens. Hosts Esme Michaela - filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions - and actor, Joe Coates, examine the film’s themes, politics, representation, and cultural impact, asking what it gets right, what it gets wrong, and why it still matters. Littered throughout. Through the Creative Hangup Hotline, listeners can anonymously share their creative fears, blocks, and doubts, with the hosts responding with encouragement, perspective, and inspiration. This episode is proudly supported by Switchboard, the UK's national LGBTQIA+ support line. As Switchboard puts it, they exist to create a space where people can "explore, talk and be truly heard." For over 50 years, their trained LGBTQIA+ volunteers have provided confidential support, helping people navigate questions around identity, relationships, sexual health, and life in general with compassion and understanding. If you or someone you know could benefit from support, Switchboard is available every day from 10am–10pm. You can call 0800 0119 100, email hello@switchboard.lgbt, use their web chat, or find more information at www.switchboard.lgbt. You can also follow their work on Instagram and Facebook at @switchboardlgbt. A huge thank you to Switchboard for sponsoring us and supporting independent feminist media and helping us foster conversations rooted in empathy, creativity, and community. We'd also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Tash Walker for joining us on this episode and sharing their insights, expertise, and perspective with such generosity. Want even more? Join our Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, post-episode discussions, and exclusive access to all things Popcorn & Patriarchy. Follow us everywhere at @PopcornAndPatriarchy Find our film diaries and ratings on Letterboxd (https://letterboxd.com/PopPatriarchy/) Stuck in a creative spiral? Send your dilemmas to the Creative Hangup Hotline! Expect honesty, confidence boosts, and creative inspiration.(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeinE3oshLOnXd220wbLhKwvuWrZIpBtRHRxgQFgn2rXYpePA/viewform?fbclid=PAT01DUAQ8t_dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeTnt-AvIVe1qilUg1Enf7kodYaGzHw4r8Qr5LI3zS5OseOW0JYDVeKJ0oE4g_aem_NWBxgnFQ1VOoqKWTWpOBBA)

About

🍿 Film reviews through a feminist lens 🎬 Where cinema meets culture & power 💋 Episodes & creative challenges 👇 Hosted by filmmaker and Founder of Evulve Productions, Esme Michaela, and actor Joe Coates. Produced by Evulve Productions.