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!