In the new DC superhero film Blue Beetle, a young Mexican-American man

stumbles across a creepy bug-like alien artifact that bonds to him and

gives him superpowers.

This sets off a series of events that bring his beloved family into conflict with an evil

mega corporation that wants to use the artifact for sinister purposes.

It may seem like just another story about a reluctant hero,

but in execution, centering the film on a Latino family

changes the familiar formula in ways big and small.

I'm Glenn Weldon, and today we're talking about Blue Beetle on

pop culture happy hour from NPR. Joining me today is Culture Critic and reporter Serena Toros. Hey,

and also with us is Film Critic and Senior Film Programmer at the Jacob Burns Film

Center, Monica Castilla. Welcome back, Monica.

Glad to be back. Glad to have you you and rounding out the panel is Ronald Young Jr.

He is the host of the film and television review podcast leaving the theater.

And of the recently launched podcast, Wait for you, W-E-I-G-H-T, Hey Ronald, congratulations.

Thank you so much, couldn't wait, W-A-I-T to be here.

There you go.

Okay, let's get to it.

In Blue Beetle, Sholo Mariduña plays young Jaime

who returns from college to the fictional town

of Palmyra City, where his beloved family informs him

they've fallen on hard times.

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