Hulk Smashes, Spiritbox Rocks, Nikki Implodes
In this lively and wide-ranging episode of The Middle of Culture, Eden and Peter dive into everything from the metalcore chaos of Spiritbox's live show to the surprisingly emotional depth of Marvel's Thunderbolts*. Peter recaps a whirlwind couple of weeks--graduations, concerts, and GMing a D&D campaign--while Eden shares updates on the comics scene and the drama behind the latest Infinity Nikki patch. The duo also take a deep dive into 2003's Hulk, unpacking its messy brilliance, thematic depth, and radioactive-green visuals. It's a chaotic blend of media breakdowns, cultural commentary, and deeply felt reflections on trauma, transformation, and finding connection in unexpected places.
Show Notes:
- Spiritbox concert recap: Peter attended a standout show in Salt Lake City, noting the energy, mixed-gender crowd, and explosive live performance that solidifies Spiritbox's rising status in metal.
- Graduation celebrations: Aubrey graduated from the University of Utah; Peter recounts the efficient ceremony and celebratory Rodizio Grill outing.
- TTRPG return: Peter is back to GMing, running Keys from the Golden Vault for his old group, reflecting on the prep and joy of returning to the table.
Reading updates:
- Peter: The Artist's Way to rekindle creative energy.
- Eden: Finished volume 6 of Adachi and Shimamura, started reading Late Bloomer (romantic, flower-farm drama with "sexy conflict").
Other updates:
- Free Comic Book Day: Eden helped run the busiest, most successful FCBD at the comic shop yet, featuring coffee, custom buttons, and signings by Phil Hester and Eric Gapster.
- Infinity Nikki patch 1.5 chaos: Eden breaks down the game's disastrous update—retcons, glitches, co-op flops, disappearing currency, and a literal girlcott.
- Girls Frontline 2: Exilium: Eden praises the writing in this tactical gacha game while lamenting its horny robot girl aesthetic.
Marvel's Thunderbolts* (spoiler-free and spoiler-filled discussion):
- Florence Pugh carries the film with emotional depth.
- Emphasis on connection and community over brute force.
- The ending subverts typical MCU punch-fests.
- Surprises and smart character arcs elevate it above recent Marvel fare.
2003's Hulk retrospective:
- Hulk as a metaphor for trauma and abuse—possibly the most emotionally resonant portrayal of the character.
- Praise for Jennifer Connelly and Sam Elliott.
- Visual style mixing comic book panels and split screens—ambitious if inconsistent.
- Talbot's goofy subplot and memorable death scene.
- Mixed feelings on the CGI Hulk's look but appreciation for its bold emotional scope.
Pop Culture Quick Hits:
- Jeremy Renner's lowball pay offer and the uncertain future of Hawkeye Season 2.
- Reactions to the Murderbot trailer and miscasting concerns.
- Hype (and tempered expectations) for Fantastic Four and the future of the MCU.
Join us in another two weeks for more great pop-culture discussion and exploration. Reach out at feedback@themiddleofculture.com and we'll see you then!