Newcomers: Sports, with Nicole Byer and Lauren Lapkus

Introducing: Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim Sep 17, 2024

Have a listen to Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim, a new Headgum podcast! Raised by a single mom, Ego Nwodim may have daddy issues, but she suspects you might, too. On Thanks Dad, she invites guests like Bill Burr, Kenan Thompson, Adam Pally, Hasan Minaj, Tim Meadows, Andy Cohen, and many more to be her “Dad for the Day” and has funny, heartfelt conversations with them about their experiences with their own dads and as parents themselves. Each episode wraps up with her getting practical advice from her guests such as how to get the best deal when buying a house, how to know you’ve found “the one,” and how to perfect your jump shot.

Subscribe to Thanks Dad on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and check out new episodes every Monday.

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Bull Durham (Livestream Finale!) w/ Rob Huebel & Paul Scheer Sep 10, 2024

It’s the extra special livestream finale of Newcomers: Sports! Lauren and Nicole are called up to the show to discuss Bull Durham with very special guests Rob Huebel and Paul Scheer. Along with celebrating the alluring powerhouse that is Susan Sarandon, the group also gets into the range of Tim Robbins, the strangeness of A Big Romantic Speech, and improvise the plot to Bull Durham 2.

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You can hear six seasons of Newcomers theme music composed by Newcomer’s editor/composer extraordinaire Faris Monshi now streaming everywhere: bit.ly/ThemesFromNewcomers

Get tickets for the VOD version of the Newcomers: Sports Fan Choice Finale Livestream with special guests Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel here! Available until Sunday, September 15th at 11:59 PM PT.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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Field of Dreams (w/ Paul F. Tompkins) Sep 03, 2024

Lauren and Nicole take a trip to the Field of Dreams with very special guest Paul F. Tompkins (Threedom)! Together, the group gets into what hypothetical players they’d like to recruit for their own ghost team, the oddity of hearing voices telling you to build a baseball field, and take a slight detour to discuss a completely different film, The Whale.

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Get tickets for the upcoming Newcomers: Sports Fan Choice Finale Livestream with special guests Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel on 9/5 at 4PM PT here!

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Challengers (w/ Margaret Cho) Aug 27, 2024

Lauren and Nicole head to the front row of the New Rochelle Challenger with very special guest Margaret Cho to chat all things Challengers! Our trio examines the film’s trio of Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor, share their expectations versus reality of one of 2024’s sexiest films, reminisce about early aughts fashion, and muse about the similarities between pursuing a career in sports and comedy.

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Join us next week for our episode covering Field of Dreams!

Get tickets for the upcoming Newcomers: Sports Fan Choice Finale Livestream with special guests Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel on 9/5 at 4PM PT here!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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Bend It Like Beckham (w/ E.R. Fightmaster, Katie Kershaw, & Tien Tran) Aug 20, 2024

Lauren and Nicole hop over the pond with very special guests E.R. Fightmaster, Katie Kershaw, & Tien Tran (Jockular) to get into all things women’s football with the early aughts film Bend It Like Beckham. Also discussed is the icon and living legend Ilona Maher, the beyond obvious queer storyline that refuses to come to fruition, and the movie trope of an injured man becoming the coach for a women’s team.

Join us next week for our episode covering Challengers!

Get tickets for the upcoming Newcomers: Sports Fan Choice Finale Livestream with special guests Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel on 9/5 at 4PM PT here!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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The Karate Kid (w/ Bill Hader) Aug 13, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole take a trip to the Cobra Kai dojo to get into all things The Karate Kid with very special guest Bill Hader (Barry, SNL)! The group waxes (on and off, of course) about the in-depth backstories of Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), the incredibly high expectations this movie set for both dating and martial arts training, and where Joe Pesci might possibly fit into this cinematic universe.

Join us next week for our episode covering Bend It Like Beckham!

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Miracle (w/ Gareth Reynolds) Aug 06, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole are joined by very special guest Gareth Reynolds (The Dollop, We’re Here to Help) to debrief the Kurt Russell-led hockey film, Miracle, just in time for the (summer) Olympics. The stakes are high, the character introductions are long, and the hockey stops are as satisfyingly crisp as ever. Also discussed: the icon Celine Dion, dating whilst skating, and star Eddie Cahill’s career spanning from Friends to Sex and the City.

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Join us next week for our episode covering The Karate Kid!

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Rocky (w/ Rekha Shankar) Jul 30, 2024

Lauren and Nicole enter the world of boxing with very special guest, comedian and Philadelphia native Rekha Shankar! The group gets into the interesting social dynamics that come with Rocky’s quirky pet ownership, the cultural obsession with impersonating Sylvester Stallone, and the lasting impact of yelling “Adrian!”.

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Join us next week for our episode covering Miracle!

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A League of Their Own (w/ Molly Kearney and Melanie Field) Jul 23, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are back covering the baseball classic A League of Their Own with very special guests from the eponymous Amazon series, Molly Kearney and Melanie Field! Along with BTS tea from the fan-beloved series, the gang also gets into the intricacies and hurdles of women’s sports in the 20th century, whether they love or fear the ocean, as well as shining a deserving light on Rosie O’Donnell’s hit-after-hit acting career in the 90s. Batter up!

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Join us next week for our episode covering Rocky!

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Rudy (w/ Emily Hampshire) Jul 16, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are joined by very special guest Emily Hampshire (Schitt’s Creek) to debrief the classic football film, Rudy. No conversational stone is left unturned, from Rudy’s older brother stealing his girlfriend (rude!) to Rudy having the impulse to read every single rejection letter out loud (funny!). Who do Lauren and Nicole think should play Rudy in the imaginary 2024 remake? The answer may surprise you.

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Join us next week for our episode covering A League of Their Own!

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White Men Can't Jump (w/ Amir Blumenfeld) Jul 09, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are back with an epic new season of Newcomers covering legendary sports movies. There’s no better way to kick things off than discussing White Men Can’t Jump (1992) with Headgum founder, co-host of the podcast Segments, and basketball fanatic Amir Blumenfeld! The group gets into their own personal experiences playing sports (both good and bad, mostly bad), understanding the lore of someone’s Favorite Movie, and clear up the misconception that this film's sequel is not called White Men Can’t Jump Again.

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Join us next week for our episode covering Rudy!

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Killers of the Flower Moon (w/ Ryan Redcorn) Jun 18, 2024

For the season finale of Newcomers: Scorsese, Lauren and Nicole are joined by Reservation Dogs writer, comedian, filmmaker, and Osage member Ryan Redcorn to discuss Killers of the Flower Moon (2023). On location in Oklahoma during the film’s production, Ryan generously shares his behind the scenes scoop with Lauren and Nicole, adding important and thoughtful historical and cultural context to this harrowingly true story.

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The Irishman (w/ Grace Spelman) Jun 11, 2024

Q: What do you get when you put Robert Di Nero, Joe Pesci, and Al Pacino in a 3.5 hour Scorsese epic about the life and crimes of Jimmy Hoffa? A: The Irishman! Nicole and Lauren are joined by writer Grace Spelman to celebrate Di Nero’s platform shoes, the newest de-aging technology in cinema, and give special flowers to Ray Romano (Spoiler: Everyone loves him).

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)!

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The Departed (w/ Mike Mitchell & John Hodgman) Jun 04, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are joined by very special Bostonian guests Mike Mitchell (Doughboys) and John Hodgman (Judge John Hodgman) to get into Scorsese’s award-winning 2006 film The Departed! This episode has everything: Mitch’s birthday, rat acting, Jack Nicholson’s filming pre-requisites and a special shout out to every person, place, and thing that made this film what it is. You won’t ever think of micro-processors the same way again.

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering The Irishman (2019!

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The Aviator (w/ Amy Nicholson) May 28, 2024

Lauren and Nicole take a wild ride in the sky covering Scorsese’s The Aviator (2004) with a very special guest: film critic, author, and podcast host Amy Nicholson (Unspooled)! After all independently coming to the realization that this is neither a war epic nor an Amelia Earhart biopic, the group assembles to discuss Leonardo DiCaprio’s portrayal of nepo-baby Howard Hughes, the theatrical debut of Gwen Stefani, and the clever invention of the bathroom stall.

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering The Departed (2006)!

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Gangs of New York (w/ Griffin Newman & David Sims) May 21, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole are joined by very special guests Griffin Newman and David Sims (Blank Check) to debrief Scorsese’s 2002 film Gangs of New York starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Cameron Diaz. Beloved by some and missing-the-mark for others, the group discusses this early-aughts epic while also getting into Lauren’s childhood production of Les Misérables, the unique and powerful smell of 1860’s New York, as well as officially define what an iPhone Face is.

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering The Aviator (2004)!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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Casino (w/ Hunter Harris) May 14, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are joined by journalist Hunter Harris to not only discuss the 1995 film Casino starring Robert Di Nero, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, but also get to the bottom of why Martin Scorsese is considered The Internet’s Baby Girl. Also covered are everyone’s past Vegas experiences (both positive and otherwise), the merits of the Amazon Prime Video trivia feature, and Sharon Stone’s iconic dresses (including the one from The Gap she wore to the 1996 Academy Award’s ceremony).

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Subscribe to Hunter’s Newsletter Hung Up

Next week tune in for our next episode covering Gangs of New York (2002)!

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Goodfellas (w/ Caitlin Durante and Jamie Loftus) May 07, 2024

Lauren and Nicole rejoice in another Di Nero x Pesci collab with 1995’s Goodfellas! Joined by very special guests Caitlin Durante and Jamie Loftus (The Bechdel Cast), the group discusses the ins and outs of life in the mob while pausing every now and then to celebrate Joe Pesci’s range. From the Copacabana to eating ketchup and egg noodles under Witness Protection, the twists and turns of this episode are ones you won’t want to miss.

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Listen to The Bechdel Cast here

Next week tune in for our next episode covering Casino (1995)!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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Raging Bull (w/ Branson Reese) Apr 30, 2024

This week, Nicole and Lauren jump into the proverbial boxing ring to discuss Scorsese’s classic Raging Bull with special guest Branson Reese (Rude Tales of Magic)! Together, they bob and weave through the complicated story of Jake LaMotta played by Robert De Niro, rejoice in another stellar performance by Joe Pesci, and learn the movie magic behind how all of those fight scenes were filmed.

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Listen to Rude Tales of Magic here

Next week tune in for our next episode covering Goodfellas (1990)!

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The Last Waltz (w/ Stephanie Allynne) Apr 23, 2024

Turn up the volume, because it’s time for what's hailed as "one of the greatest documentary concert films ever made": Scorsese’s The Last Waltz! While The Band was joined by folks such as Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Eric Clapton, Neil Diamond and Neil Young, Lauren and Nicole are so excited to round out this episode's band with very special guest Stephanie Allynne (Tig Notaro: Hello Again, One Mississippi, The L Word: Generation Q)! Together, they chat about the power of live music (And, of course, The Eras Tour), the differing cultural impacts of The Voice and American Idol, and why it’s so important to label who everyone is in a documentary.

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering Raging Bull (1980)!

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Taxi Driver (w/ Action Boyz) Apr 16, 2024

Lauren and Nicole are back with season seven of Newcomers! This time, they're getting into the filmography of legendary director Martin Scorsese, beginning with Taxi Driver (1976). Lauren and Nicole are joined by none other than the Action Boyz (Jon Gabrus, Ben Rodgers, and Ryan Stanger) to contextualize Robert De Niro’s portrayal of Travis Bickle, get into the nitty gritty of that mohawk, and pass explicit judgment on Travis’ taste in movies.

Listen to the Action Boyz here

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Next week tune in for our next episode covering The Last Waltz (1978)!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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Batman Livestream (w/ Jon Gabrus and Bobby Moynihan) Apr 09, 2024

Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na Batman: Improvised Livestream! Lauren and Nicole are joined by special guests Bobby Moynihan and Jon Gabrus to celebrate the end of this very special season with a Batman-themed improv show and pizza party that can only be described as once-in-a-lifetime. Check it out!

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Next week tune in to hear our first episode of season SEVEN covering Martin Scorsese films! First up is Taxi Driver (1976)!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Nicole and Lauren to read on the pod!

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The Flash (w/ Patton Oswalt and Pete Holmes) Mar 26, 2024

Lauren and Nicole have finally reached their final film of this epic Batman journey: Andrés Muschietti’s The Flash (2023)! Starring Ezra Miller as the titular role, this film has more Batman (or should we say... Batmen) than originally meets the eye. Joined by special guests Patton Oswalt (Ratatouille, King of Queens) and Pete Holmes (Crashing, The Pete Holmes Show), Lauren and Nicole weave their way through the complicated multi-verses of the DC world while also taking time to wonder about The Flash’s snack intake, time travel, and how much in life is effected by a can of tomatoes.

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Next week tune in to hear our special Newcomers Presents: Improvised Batman livestream!

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The Batman (w/ John Milhiser) Mar 19, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole enter the Robert Pattinson Batman-verse with Matt Reeve’s The Batman (2022). Joined by special guest John Milhiser (Drama Club, Saturday Night Live, Foursome), the trio discuss the oft-used orphan trope seen throughout the different Batman stories, the subtle differences between Colin Farrell and Danny DeVito as The Penguin, and the beyond startling discovery that Christian Bale is British.

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Next week's movie: The Flash (2023)

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The Lego Batman Movie (w/ Sam Richardson) Mar 12, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole watch The Lego Batman Movie (2017) and experience the auditory gift that is Will Arnett’s Batman. They are joined by very special guest Sam Richardson (Veep, The Detroiters, The Afterparty, Werewolves Within, Champaign ILL) who deftly catches and explains all of the references to Batman movies of yore. Along the way, they discuss the hilarity of eating an entire Lobster Thermidor alone, the Dickens-esque morality journey Batman goes on this time around, and, of course, the power of friendship.

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Next week's movie: The Batman (2022)

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Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (w/ Scott Aukerman) Mar 05, 2024

This week, Lauren and Nicole dive into Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice - Ultimate Edition, which has approximately 30 more minutes of action-packed Ben-Affleck-as-Batman heroism to dissect than the non-ultimate edition! Extra special guest Scott Aukerman (Mr. Show, Between Two Ferns, Comedy Bang! Bang!, Threedom) provides beyond helpful background knowledge on the commonalities between Superman and Batman’s mothers, Jesse Eisenberg’s probable acting inspiration for Lex Luther, and why Superman is so hot.

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Next week's movie: The Lego Batman Movie (2017)

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The Dark Knight Rises (w/ Jason Mantzoukas) Feb 27, 2024

Lauren and Nicole take on the third Christopher Nolan installment covering The Dark Knight Rises (2012) with very special guest Jason Mantzoukas (How Did This Get Made? The League, Big Mouth, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) and discuss very important subjects such as the musical relationship between Batman and Prince, the intricacies of Bane’s voice, and (unrelated) the wonder of the television show Alone.

Next week's movie: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (Extended Version) (2016)

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The Dark Knight (w/ Sean Clements and Hayes Davenport) Feb 20, 2024

Lauren and Nicole continue through the Christopher Nolan Batman-verse with very special guests Sean Clements and Hayes Davenport (Hollywood Handbook) covering 2008’s The Dark Knight with Christian Bale returning as Batman and Heath Ledger as the Joker. Together, they attempt to answer one of life’s biggest questions: “Why so serious?”, give proper ode to Katie Holmes, and wonder collectively about Alfred’s mysterious past in Burma.

Next week's movie: The Dark Knight Rises (2012).

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Listen to Hollywood Handbook on Headgum!

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Batman Begins (w/ Mary Holland) Feb 13, 2024

Lauren and Nicole enter the Christopher Nolan Batman-verse with very special guest Mary Holland (Self-Reliance, Happiest Season, Harley Quinn) covering 2005’s Batman Begins with Christian Bale. Fun! Together, they weave their way through knowing (and then not knowing, and then knowing again) who Ra’s al Ghul really is, give ample praise for Dawson’s Creek legend Katie Holmes, and feel comfortable enough to make a shocking confession (this is their first time watching a Nolan film...ever!).

Next week's movie: The Dark Knight (2008).

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Batman & Robin (w/ Matt Gourley) Feb 06, 2024

Lauren and Nicole’s trip through the Batman universe takes an interesting turn with very special guest Matt Gourley (Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, Superego, I Was There Too, With Gourley and Rust, Bonanas For Bonanza) covering 1997’s Batman & Robin with George Clooney. Is this really one of the “worst movies ever made”... or actually one of the all-time greats? Is the hyper-focus on Batman’s nipples an expression of artistic vision or does it miss the point? Are we sure Batman and Robin are not a couple? All of these important questions (and more!) will be answered.

Next week's movie: Batman Begins (2005).

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Batman Forever (w/ Andy Daly) Jan 30, 2024

Lauren and Nicole enter Joel Schumacher's Batman universe with very special guest Andy Daly (Lessons in Chemistry, Eastbound & Down, Harley Quinn) covering 1995’s Batman Forever. Together, they learn all about the on-set feuds (spoiler: there were several), the creative process of designing Batman’s unique costume, and so much more.

Next week's movie: Batman & Robin (1997).

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Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (w/ Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell) Jan 23, 2024

Things take an animated turn for Lauren and Nicole when they get into 1993’s Mask of the Phantasm with special guests Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell (Doughboys). This movie has everything: Kevin Conroy’s legendary voiceover work as Batman, Mark Hamil’s interpretation of the Joker, and a gorgeous 78 minute runtime. Yes please!

Next week's movie: Batman Forever (1995).

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Listen to Nick and Mitch’s podcast, Doughboys, also on Headgum!

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Batman Returns (w/ Karen Han) Jan 16, 2024

Lauren and Nicole continue their deep dive into the Batman universe with very special guest Karen Han (Author of BONG JOON HO: DISSIDENT CINEMA) covering 1992’s Batman Returns. Michael Keaton reprises his role as Batman, Danny DeVito reigns supreme over a sewer colony of penguins, and Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman whip stunt work is the definition of a one-take-wonder. What more could you possibly ask for?

Next week's movie: Mask of the Phantasm (1993).

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Batman 1989 (w/ Taran Killam) Jan 09, 2024

Lauren and Nicole’s Batman journey continues with very special guest Taran Killam (Spamalot, Hamilton, SNL, Single Parents, River Wild) explaining the cultural impact that is 1989’s Batman starring Michael Keaton. All questions, including whether or not Bruce Wayne has ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight, will be answered.

Next week's movie: Batman Returns (1992).

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Batman 1966 (w/ Paul F. Tompkins) Jan 02, 2024

It’s time for Lauren and Nicole's next adventure: covering all things Batman. This season begins with very special guest Paul F. Tompkins (Threedom, Mr. Show, Bojack Horseman, Comedy Bang! Bang!) explaining the lore and cultural impact of 1966’s Batman starring Adam West. Get your shark repellent ready, folks. You’re going to need it.

Next week's movie: Batman (1989).

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Newcomers Returns Jan 2nd! Dec 26, 2023

At looooong last, Nicole Byer and Lauren Lapkus are back to watch things you know and love that they’ve somehow never seen before. They’re spending this season on the gritty, crime-ridden streets of Gotham City as they watch (pretty much) all of the Batman movies ever made with their friends, fellow comedians, and Batman fanatics. First episode drops January 2nd so keep your peepers on this feed!

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Bonus: Fast X (with Nicole Byer & Jon Gabrus) May 31, 2023

Salute la famila... We're back. You know we couldn't leave you hanging without our thoughts on the return of the greatest vroom vroom franchise ever made. Gabrus and Nicole broke every speeding limit and ran every red light from the movie theater to the Headgum studios, for this very special bonus episode on the 10th installment of the Fast & Furious series.

PLUS: Sound the alarm! Newcomers is coming back for a 6th season, covering all the Batman movies ever made. Watch this space for brand new episodes starting August 15th. See you then, fam.

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Thor: Love & Thunder (w/ Jon Gabrus, Sasheer Zamata, and Ify Nwadiwe | Live at Comic Con) Jul 28, 2022

Ok, wow, it’s Headgum’s first ever Comic-Con live event! This special bonus episode taped live at San Diego Comic-Con is brought to you by the power of Thor’s hammer, the power of Gabrus in Hercules cosplay, Thor’s butt in the buff, and Gabrus’s butt in a speedo. Plus new and returning guests Sasheer Zamata (Home Economics, SNL, Best Friends) and Ify Nwadiwe/Tengen Uzui (Grand Crew, Twisted Metal, Maximum Film)! What a way to wrap up our mightiest season yet. Not saying Kevin Feige scheduled the Marvel panel right after ours in different venue because he was scared…but he hasn't said otherwise…

Thanks for tuning in and see you all for the next one!

Special treat: Watch the video version of the episode on Headgum’s YouTube at 8am EST.

Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/NEWCOMERS - Enter promo code NEWCOMERS for their special Christimas' Holiday deal: 85% off and 3 extra months free!

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Eternals (w/ Patton Oswalt) Jul 19, 2022

The time has come: Pip the Troll (whom you might know as Patton Oswalt) joins Nicole and Lauren to wave goodbye to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and discuss the swirling rumors of a Patton-Oswalt-and-Harry-Styles Eternals spinoff vehicle. But, wipe those tears: Newcomers will be back next week with a very special bonus episode, recorded live from Comic Con in San Diego this weekend. The journey continues!

Next week's movie: Thor: Love & Thunder (2022)

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Spider-Man: Far From Home (w/ Whitmer Thomas) Jul 12, 2022

Let's give a big, warm welcome to Jake Gyllenhaal to the Marvel Cinematic Universe -- and an even bigger, warmer welcome to Whitmer Thomas (The Golden One on HBOMax, Corked coming soon on Headgum) to the Newcomers Cinematic Universe! Nicole and Lauren take Whitmer on vacay with them and Peter Parker, and establish once and for all that Marvel does the teen-road-trip-romance genre right.

Next week's movie: Eternals (2021)

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WandaVision: Episodes 1-4 (w/ Emma Fyffe) Jul 05, 2022

What is this podcast, if not Nicole and Lauren persevering? Producer/writer/host/professional nerd Emma Fyffe joins us as we go from widescreen to the tube and dive into our first MCU installment on (and celebrating!) the small screen. Is the Scarlet Witch our favorite Marvel superhero? Or just, apparently, the powerful-est? You'll have to tune in to find out.

Next week's movie: Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) (Yes, we know this is out of order don't come for us!)

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Avengers: Endgame (w/ Joel Kim Booster) Jun 28, 2022

All good Avengery things must come to an end. Comedian/writer/actor and creator of Fire Island (arguably the best film outside the MCU), Joel Kim Booster joins Nicole and Lauren to wave a teary goodbye to the ensemble-est part of the franchise. They also do some NSFW Marvel-related shopping on Etsy.com, a sentence that none of us ever thought we'd ever write, ever.

Next week's movie: WandaVision, Episodes 1-4 (2021)

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Captain Marvel (w/ Emily Gonzalez and Sammy Smart of Too Scary; Didn't Watch) Jun 21, 2022

The MCU finally serves up a female lead superhero and Nicole and Lauren are... well, less than impressed. Emily Gonzalez and Sammy Smart of new Headgum show Too Scary; Didn't Watch go off-script to watch a non-scary movie with us, as we meet Carol Danvers and discuss the moral ambiguity of Nick Fury doing... that thing... he did... to the skrull. You know the scene we're talking about.

Next week's movie: Avengers: Endgame(2019)

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Avengers: Infinity War (w/ Jon Gabrus) Jun 14, 2022

Well, well, well - if it isn't last season's Newcomers host Gabrus, reunited with Lauren and Nicole once again, not unlike the way the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy join forces in this week's MCU installment. We totally planned it that way! Join us, and them, as they fight to protect all the Infinity Stones (not unlike Croc Jibbitz) from the evil grasp of evil Thanos.

Next week's movie: Captain Marvel(2019)

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Black Panther (w/ Shaun Diston) Jun 07, 2022

Bet you've been wondering when Lauren and Nicole would make it back to Wakanda. Well, they've arrived. And? They love it. True friend-of-the-pod Shaun Diston stops by with his well-worn copy of the Marvel Encyclopedia to teach us a thing or two about the Xhosa language, vibranium mines, and - most importantly - which MCU characters Lauren and Nicole should get to play.

Next week's movie: Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

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Thor: Ragnarok (w/ Paul Scheer) May 31, 2022

Everyone said Nicole and Lauren would like this one. Since the start of the season, they all said: "Just wait 'til Thor: Ragnarok." And so we waited, traveling to Xandar and the Quantum Realm and the Avengers' mansion, until it was time for us to reunite with Thor and Loki and Heimdall (but this time, they're funnier).

Paul Scheer (How Did This Get Made?, The League, Marvel 616) stops by to find out if Nicole and Lauren did, in fact, like this one. Well, did they? You'll have to tune in to find out.

Next week's movie: Black Panther (2018)

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Spider-Man: Homecoming (w/ Zach Cherry) May 24, 2022

Fiiiinallyyyy, Nicole and Lauren get to hang out with Peter Parker for a whole feature. And who better to take us through Spider-man's return to the MCU than actor, comedian, and Marvel's Next Breakout Superhero according to Stephen Colbert: Zach Cherry. And before you ask: yes, we watch Tom Holland's wet-hot performance of Umbrella and, yes, we get a Cam update! Wow, a jam-packed ep.

Next week's movie: Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

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Doctor Strange (w/ Scott Aukerman) May 17, 2022

Someone call the doctor (but preferably one that doesn't text and drive): Nicole and Lauren love this movie! Our own person Ancient One, comedian/podcaster/author of several Marvel comics (!!!) Scott Aukerman joins us to explore the dark dimension of the MCU.

Next week's movie: Spider-Man, Homecoming (2017)

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Captain America: Civil War (w/ Jason Mantzoukas) May 10, 2022

A house divided. We finally get actor/writer/comedian/owner-of-a-custom-built-shelf-for-storing-his-comic-book-collection Jason Mantzoukas (The League, Parks & Rec, How Did This Get Made?) to be our patient tour guide through the MCU as Lauren and Nicole choose sides in the Avengers' family feud.

Next week's movie: Doctor Strange (2016)

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Ant-Man (w/ Caleb Hearon and Shelby Wolstein) May 03, 2022

Nicole and Lauren sit down with their Headgum neighbors Caleb Hearon and Shelby Wolstein of Keeping Records to discuss just how cute and teeny tiny Paul Rudd is in Ant-Man. Featuring: a special cameo appearance by Caleb's roommate.

**Editors note: our resident Marvel expert Leah would like us to mention that she accidentally refers to actress Kathryn Newton as Kathryn Lang in this episode. She deeply regrets the error.**

Next week's movie: Captain America, Civil War (2016)

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Avengers: Age of Ultron (w/ Leah Marilla Thomas) Apr 26, 2022

Admin reveal!!! Our resident Marvel expert and self-proclaimed nerd-for-hire Leah Marilla Thomas gets in front of the mic to guide us through arguably no one's favorite MCU movie, Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015).

Next week's movie: Ant-Man (2015)

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Guardians of the Galaxy (w/ Kevin T. Porter) Apr 19, 2022

This week on the pod, it's Nicole, Lauren, Groot, Rocket, and Kevin T. Porter just having a lot of fun. You guessed it, it's finally time for Guardians of the Galaxy! They laugh, they cry, they laugh/cry at the BTS footage of Vin Diesel saying "I am Groot" in multiple different languages. Something for everyone, this time around!

Be sure to check out Kevin T. Porter's podcast, Good Christian Fun.

Next week's movie: Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

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Captain America: The Winter Soldier (w/ Ify Nwadiwe) Apr 12, 2022

Well well well, leave it to our good friend/fossil Captain America to put a pep in Lauren & Nicole's step! Him and *checks notes* Robert Redford. Friend of the show and "horny & comics" expert Ify Nwadiwe (Grand Crew, Comedy Bang Bang!, Key and Peele) returns to discuss Captain America: The Winter Soldier and share his expert opinion on nail care in adult films and the pros/cons of steroid use. Ify, so helpful.

Next week's movie: Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

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Marvel's The Avengers (w/ Ashley Nicole Black) Apr 05, 2022

The gang's all here! For Nicole and Lauren's first Avengers film, we invited on friend-of-the-pod (and recent Marvel stan!) Ashley Nicole Black (A Black Lady Sketch Show, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee) to find out what happens when you bring together a group of remarkable people…to see if they could become something more…to see if they could work together when we needed them to…to fight the batt—sorry, we’ll stop.

Next week's movie: Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

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Captain America: The First Avenger (w/ James III) Mar 29, 2022

Wait... could it be? A Marvel installment that Nicole and Lauren actually enjoy? We can all thank the handsome, wholesome Steve Rogers for this little MCU miracle. Comedian/writer James III (Black Men Can't Jump [In Hollywood]) travels back with us to 1942 to discuss the pecs and pitfalls that come with being the Star Spangled Man With A Plan and how much more fun it is to fight bad guys with the help of all your friends.

Next week's movie: Marvel's The Avengers (2012)

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Thor (w/ Eugene Cordero) Mar 22, 2022

This week on the pod, Nicole and Lauren explore the fantastical ins and outs of 2011's Thor (dir. Kenneth Branagh). For their first journey to Asgard, they decided to bring along Eugene Cordero (Casey in the Disney+ series Loki) to fill in the gaps in their knowledge of everyone's favorite "himbo god."

Next week's movie: Captain America, The First Avenger (2011)

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Iron Man 2 (w/ Carl Tart and Lamar Woods) Mar 15, 2022

Well, well, well. If it isn't our old friend Iron Man, back at it again. Nicole and Lauren jump into the third movie in the MCU (and second of our abridged watch-through), 2012's Iron Man 2, with their friends from across the Headgum hallway, Carl Tart and Lamar Woods. Can you guess which guest is an actual Marvel superfan?

Listen to Carl and Lamar's podcast XOXO, Gossip Kings, and watch the video version here.

Next week's movie: Thor (2011)

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Iron Man (w/ Preeti Chhibber) Mar 08, 2022

Nicole and Lauren are back to cover the Marvel Cinematic Universe (although, the Madea Cinematic Universe will always be their true MCU). Marvel expert, writer, speaker, and friend of the pod Preeti Chhibber joins them for the movie that kicked it all off: Iron Man (2008).

Next week's movie: Iron Man 2 (2010)

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F9 (w/ Lauren Lapkus) Sep 28, 2021

Lauren Lapkus is back to help Nicole and Gabrus finish out the season with the last film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—F9 (2021).

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Hobbs & Shaw (w/ Michael Cruz Kayne) Sep 21, 2021

Michael Cruz Kayne (The Late Show with Stephen Colbert) joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the ninth film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—Hobbs & Shaw (2019).

Check out Michael's podcast A Good Cry, premiering September 30th, and follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

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The Fate Of The Furious (w/ Niccole Thurman) Sep 14, 2021

Niccole Thurman (Grace and Frankie, Jellystone) joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the eighth film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—The Fate of the Furious (2017).

Follow Niccole on Twitter and Instagram and check out The Scroll Down on Headgum.

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Furious 7 (w/ Sam Richardson) Sep 07, 2021

Sam Richardson (Veep, I Think You Should Leave, The Tomorrow War) joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the seventh film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—Furious 7 (2015).

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Fast & Furious 6 (w/ Ryan Stanger) Aug 31, 2021

Ryan Stanger (The Dumbbells, The ActionBoyz) joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the sixth film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—Fast & Furious 6 (2013).

Follow Ryan on Instagram and Twitter and check out The Dumbbellson Headgum.

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Fast Five (w/ Jen D'Angelo) Aug 24, 2021

Jen D'Angelo (Workaholics, Solar Opposites) joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the fifth film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—Fast Five (2011).

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Fast & Furious (w/ Geoffrey James and Reilly Anspaugh) Aug 17, 2021

Geoffrey James and Reilly Anspaugh (Review Revuepodcast) join Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the fourth film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—Fast & Furious (2009).

Be sure to check out Geoff & Reilly's on Review Revue and The Headgum Podcast on Headgum.

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The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (w/ Christine Nangle) Aug 10, 2021

Writer and producer Christine Nangle joins Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the third film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006).

Follow Christine on Twitter.

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2 Fast 2 Furious (w/ Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell) Aug 03, 2021

Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell (Doughboys) join Nicole and Gabrus to discuss the second film in the Fast & Furious Franchise—2 Fast 2 Furious (2003).

Follow Nick (Twitter) and Mike (Instagram, Twitter) and check out Doughboys on Headgum.

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The Fast and the Furious (w/ Betsy Sodaro) Jul 27, 2021

Lauren and Nicole have covered Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, and Tyler Perry's body of work. This season, guest co-host Jon Gabrus guides Nicole through their next feat—the Fast & Furious Franchise. Comedian and writer Betsy Sodaro joins them for the first film of the franchise, The Fast and The Furious (2001).

Follow Betsy on Instagram and Twitter, and check out her podcasts A Funny Feeling and We Love Trash.

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Madea's Farewell Play (w/ Demi Adejuyigbe) Jun 22, 2021

Demi Adejuyigbe is back to help Lauren and Nicole finish out their Tyler Perry season with Madea's Farewell Play (2020).

Follow Demi on Instagram, and check out The Amber Ruffin Show on Peacock.

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Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (w/ Naomi Ekperigin) Jun 15, 2021

Actress, comedian, and writer Naomi Ekperigin (Mythic Quest) joins Lauren and Nicole to discuss Tyler Perry’s Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (2013).

Follow Naomi on Instagram and Twitter, and check out Mythic Quest on Apple TV and her podcasts Couples Therapy and I Love A Lifetime Movie.

Next Week’s Watchlist: Tyler Perry's Madea's Farewell Play (2020)

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A Madea Family Funeral (w/ Sasheer Zamata) Jun 08, 2021

Lauren and Nicole are joined by comedian, actress, and writer Sasheer Zamata (Woke, Home Economics) to examine the last film in the Madea franchise—A Madea Family Funeral (2019).

Follow Sasheer on Instagram and Twitter and check out Home Economics and Woke on Hulu.

Next week's watchlist: Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (2013)

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Madea's Witness Protection (w/ Langston Kerman) Jun 01, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are joined by Langston Kerman (Insecure, The Boys) to examine another movie within the Madea Cinematic Universe–Madea's Witness Protection (2012).

Follow Langston on Instagram and Twitter and check out his podcast My Momma Told Me from Big Money Player's Network and iHeartRadio.

Next week's watchlist: A Madea Family Funeral (2019)

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Ruthless Episode 1 - Watchalong May 25, 2021

Join Lauren and Nicole for a live watchalong of the Ruthless pilot.

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Madea Goes to Jail (w/ Shaun Diston) May 18, 2021

Shaun Diston is back to help Lauren and Nicole examine a staple within the Madea Cinematic Universe - Madea Goes to Jail (2009).

Follow Shaun @shaundiston on Instagram and Twitter, and check out Waffles + Mochi on Netflix.

Next week's topic: Ruthless S1 E1 "Pilot"

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The Oval (w/ Monique Heart) May 11, 2021

Monique Heart (RuPaul's Drag Race) guides Lauren and Nicole through their first experience with a Tyler Perry television drama–the pilot episode of The Oval (2019).

Follow Monique on Instagram and Twitter, and check out Ace of Hearts with Monique Heart on Headgum.

Next Week's Watchlist: Madea Goes to Jail (2009)

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Madea's Big Happy Family (w/ Rae Sanni) May 04, 2021

Comedian and writer Rae Sanni joins Lauren and Nicole to discuss another film within the Madea Cinematic Universe–Madea's Big Happy Family (2011).

Follow Rae on Instagram and Twitter, and check-out The Cast with Rae & Jacquis on HeadGum.

Next Week's Watchlist: The Oval S1 E1 "The Pilot" (2019)

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Meet The Browns - TV Series (w/ Dulcé Sloan) Apr 27, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are joined by comedian and actress Dulcé Sloan (The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, The Great North) to discuss her experience working on an episode of Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns.

Follow Dulcé on Instagram and Twitter @dulcesloan, and tune into The Great North airing Sundays on FOX.

Next Week's Watchlist: Madea's Big Happy Family (2011)

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Acrimony (w/ Michelle Collins) Apr 20, 2021

Michelle Collins (The Michelle Collins Show, Midnight Snack) returns to help Lauren and Nicole examine Tyler Perry's psychological thriller, Acrimony (2018).

Follow Michelle on Instagram and Twitter @michcoll and tune into The Michelle Collins Show on SiriusXM and her podcast, Midnight Snack.

Next week's watchlist: Meet the Browns (TV Show)

Episodes: "Meet Brown Meadows" and "Meet the Trainer"

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A Madea Christmas (w/ Jason Concepcion) Apr 13, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are joined by writer, producer, and podcaster Jason Concepcion (host of Crooked Media's Takeline and ALL CAPS NBA) to discuss a holiday film within the Madea Cinematic Universe, A Madea Christmas (2013).

Follow Jason on Instagram and Twitter @netw3rk and tune into his new Crooked podcast, Takeline.

Next week's watchlist: Acrimony (2018)

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Why Did I Get Married (w/ Lauren Ashley Smith and Mariah Smith) Apr 06, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are joined by comedians, writers, producers, and sisters Lauren Ashley Smith (A Black Lady Sketch Show) and Mariah Smith (Spectacle: An Unscripted History of Reality TV) to discuss the Tyler Perry marriage dramedy, Why Did I Get Married (2007).

Follow Lauren on Twitter and Instagram, and check out the second season of A Black Lady Sketch Show, debuting April 23rd on HBO. Follow Mariah on Twitter and Instagram, and check out her podcast ‎Spectacle: An Unscripted History of Reality TV.

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The Family That Preys (w/ Jacquis Neal) Mar 30, 2021

Actor, comedian, and podcaster Jacquis Neal (The Cast with Rae & Jacquis, Culture Kings) joins Lauren and Nicole to examine a Tyler Perry family melodrama–The Family That Preys (2008). Follow Jacquis on Twitter and Instagram, and check out his podcast The Cast with Rae & Jacquis!

Next week’s watchlist: Why Did I Get Married (2007)

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Daddy's Little Girls (w/ Sydnee Washington) Mar 23, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are joined by comedian, actress, and fellow Headgum podcaster Sydnee Washington (Hobby Hunter, Unofficial Expert) to discuss one of Tyler Perry’s first dramatic rom-coms, Daddy’s Little Girls (2007). Follow Sydnee on Twitter and Instagram, and check out her podcast Hobby Hunter!

Next week’s watchlist: The Family That Preys (2008)

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Diary of a Mad Black Woman (w/ Jon Braylock) Mar 16, 2021

Nicole and Lauren are back, and this season, they're watching Tyler Perry's works for the first time. No more of that nerd stuff! They're starting with the movie that kicked it all off for him: Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and are joined by Jon Braylock (Astronomy Club, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), who knows Mr. Perry's oeuvre inside and out. Follow Jonathan on Twitter and Instagram!

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The Rise of Skywalker - Watchalong Mar 09, 2021

Join Lauren Lapkus and her quarantine buddy/husband Mike Castle on their watchalong of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

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The Battle of the Five Armies - Watchalong (Pt. 2/2) Mar 02, 2021

Join Lauren Lapkus and her quarantine buddy/husband Mike Castle on part 2 of their watchalong of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

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The Battle of the Five Armies - Watchalong (Pt. 1/2) Feb 23, 2021

Join Lauren Lapkus and her quarantine buddy/husband Mike Castle on this first installment of their watchalong of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

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1981 BBC Radio Drama (w/ Kevin T. Porter) Jan 06, 2021

For their final romp through Middle-earth, Lauren and Nicole are joined by comedian and podcaster Kevin T. Porter (Good Christian Fun, Gilmore Guys) to explore the much-loved 1981 BBC radio drama adaptation of The Lord of the Rings.

Nothing is held back in this final installment of Season 2 as Lauren and Nicole reflect back on their experience with The Lord of the Rings franchise, and what they'd like to explore for Season 3. Kevin and Lauren also share their love of disembodied voices as Nicole reveals her revulsion towards it, and Kevin plays out the season with a heartwarming impromptu piano arrangement of The Lord of the Rings theme music.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know your thoughts on this season, and what we should explore for Season 3!

Sources for this episode:

Article on 4K re-release details

Trivia from LOTR.Fandom.com

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American Dad: Return of the Bling (w/ Rachael MacFarlane) Dec 31, 2020

Lauren and Nicole are joined by the voice of Hayley Smith herself, Rachael MacFarlane, to discuss the American Dad parody episode, Return of the Bling.

Listen in as the they lament bad coronavirus jokes, take pleasure in finally understanding all these LOTR references, and scratch their heads at the absurdity of having to ask to use the bathroom in school.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Article on Ian McKellen's Vaccine Comments

Trivia from AmericanDad.Fandom.com

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Fan Theories (w/ Jake Hurwitz) Dec 22, 2020

Lauren and Nicole are joined by comedian, writer and actor Jake Hurwitz (If I Were You, Not Another D&D Podcast) to dig into some Lord of the Rings fan theories!

All the most important questions are asked, and answers of varying credibility are provided... Why didn't they just fly the eagles to Mordor? Would it have been a terrible idea in the first place? Is LOTR just WW1 + magic? And who exactly is this mysterious Tom Bombadil character? Is he Tolkien? Is he YOU??

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Article on Dungeons and Dragons Movie

Original Eagles theory by VulcanDeathGrip

An article summarizing the Eagles theory

Film Theory video on why you SHOULDN'T fly to Mordor

Video on Gollum's Identity

All about Tom Bombadil

Article by Tolkien's grandson on LOTR/WW1 similarities

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LOTR meets DnD (w/ Brennan Lee Mulligan) Dec 15, 2020

Lauren and Nicole go on their very first Dungeons and Dragons campaign, Lord of the Rings style!

Joined by Dungeon Master Brennan Lee Mulligan (CollegeHumor’s Dimension 20 series), Darkwin the Elf and Samwise Parkington the Hobbit are on a quest to meet with their good friend Gandy, but not without running into some trouble along the way...

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

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Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor (w/ Troy Baker) Dec 08, 2020

Lauren and Nicole are back to discuss the popular 2014 video game, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, with the voice actor of the hero Talion himself, Troy Baker! Troy takes Lauren and Nicole on a deep behind-the-scenes look into the production of this runaway hit game, offering insight into the bizarre sensations of filming on a performance capture stage, the tightrope walk of carefully (and legally) expanding the lore of The Lord of the Rings franchise, and much more.

Along the way, the fellow actors reflect on what life's been like working in entertainment during the pandemic, Troy's short-lived but intense experience doing stand up comedy, and an anecdote on dedication involving an actor giving a role-winning audition in the middle of a movie theater lobby!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Movie version of Shadow of Mordor

Article on the new Tolkien book

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Memes and Parodies Pt. 2 (w/ Jessica McKenna) Nov 24, 2020

Lauren and Nicole are joined by actress and comedian Jessica McKenna (Off Book: The Improvised Musical) for some more Lord of the Rings memes and parodies!

The three take a peek at Aragorn's text messages, compare Saruman to a shampoo bottle, and watch Orlando Bloom himself imitate a popular song entirely based around a single Legolas line from the films.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

The voting is over. It's done.

Warner Bros. padding out the Hobbit films

Are you on your phone while Théoden mourns?

Saruman the shampoo bottle

Aragorn's DMs

Trilogy Recap Rap

They're Taking the Hobbits to Isengard

"Hobbits to Isengard" but it's Orlando

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LOTR Fanfiction Pt. 2 (w/ Molly Ostertag) Nov 17, 2020

It's about that time again! In Part 2 of Lord of the Rings fanfiction, Lauren and Nicole are joined by graphic novelist and writer, Molly Ostertag, to get weird, goofy, creepy, and super cute with a fresh batch of fics.

This round of fanfics truly runs the gamut of genres and moods. From the antics of Peepee the small stupid hobbit, to Lady Gollum's pursuit of rings and love, to (of course) some Sam and Frodo slash, there's sure to be a little something for everyone here.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

The LOTR-themed military spy satellite

Fan Fics:

The Very Secret Diary of Gandalf the Grey

The Mellon Chronicles Excerpt

A Royal Wedding Night

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The Hunt for Gollum (w/ Eva Anderson) Nov 10, 2020

Now that they're out of the woods of the challenging and bizarre Lord of the Rings animation trilogy, Lauren and Nicole suddenly find themselves... in more woods. Fan-made woods, that is! Joined by writer Eva Anderson (Comedy Bang! Bang!, You're The Worst), the three take a detour into the popular 2009 Lord of the Rings fan film, The Hunt for Gollum.

Eva holds nothing back as she tells the tale of her break in at a magical, now defunct place known as Hobbiton, USA, and even reveals a certain precious someone she has tattooed on her. The three ponder what film and TV universes they would make their own fan films about, Nicole dishes out a hot take comparing fan-made Arwen with the Peter Jackson version, and Lauren just wants to get to the bottom of who is in the bag when Gollum is captured and wriggling around in it. "Internet, tell us who's in that bag!"

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Watch The Hunt For Gollum here

Sean Connery could have been Gandalf

Article about Hobbiton, USA

Witness the Gollum diorama in Hobbiton

Trivia from IMDb

Trivia from Fandom.com

Trivia from Wikipedia

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The Return of the King - 1980 animated version (w/ Miel Bredouw) Nov 03, 2020

The third and final pillar of the Lord of the Rings "animation trilogy" has been vanquished by Lauren and Nicole, with the aid of fellow Headgum podcaster, comedian and musician Miel Bredouw (Punch Up the Jam, Camp Unplug).

The trio dive deep into this 1980 musical television film version of The Return of the King and decry the ugliness of all the characters (except Éowyn, who is super hot), note the ableism against Frodo masked under an awful folk tune, and ponder what it is about this franchise that keeps fans returning to these films time and time again. Okay, maybe not returning to this one specifically, but, yeah... Also, it finally happened, Lauren tells us how she recently dropped her first Lord of the Rings reference in real life! Are you happy now? She's very upset about this.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

The Gollum fish

Trivia from IMDb

Trivia from TvTropes.org

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The Lord of the Rings - 1978 animated version (w/ Michelle Collins) Oct 27, 2020

Trudging ever onward through the deep cuts of the LOTR franchise, Lauren and Nicole bring along comedian and talk show host Michelle Collins (The Michelle Collins Show, Midnight Snack with Michelle Collins) to experience and help piece together the trippy and sometimes terrifying Ralph Bakshi animated film from 1978, simply known as The Lord of the Rings.

The three begin on common ground, airing out their mixed opinions about this film and fawning over Gandy and how much of his, um, Gandy-ness could fill his wizard cap. But then a tussle breaks out as Nicole throws more shade on Gollum, and Michelle comes to his aid! In the end, they all put aside their differences and try to decipher where Peter Jackson is from. He's Australian, right? Or... British or something?

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Sean Astin announces 4K HD release of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogies

Mick Jagger seriously wanted to play Frodo

More news on the nudity/sex rumors in the Amazon series

Trivia from Fandom.com

Trivia from MovieMistakes

Trivia from ScreenRant

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The Hobbit - 1977 animated version (w/ Oscar Montoya) Oct 20, 2020

Actor and comedian Oscar Montoya (Spanish Aqui Presents, Inside The Disney Vault) joins Lauren and Nicole to begin the hosts' first foray into the world of animated Lord of the Rings content, starting with the American musical television special from 1977, The Hobbit.

Oscar brings his obsession for animation along with him to explain his love for this movie, draw comparisons between this film's style with Disney's, and whether he thinks this story warrants more than the 77 minutes this animated version of The Hobbit offers (looking at you, 9 hour live-action versions...). The three break down the differences between this version and the Peter Jackson trilogy, and suss out which one comes out on top!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Article on Amazon series nudity rumors

Trivia from IMDb

Trivia from Fandom.com

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Tolkien (w/ Mike Castle) Oct 13, 2020

Welp, we were sort of wrong to think there would be a lot of insights into the world of The Lord of the Rings in store for us with the 2019 biopic, Tolkien. But though it was a dry well to draw from, Lauren and Nicole still managed to enjoy some thought-provoking conversations with actor and writer Mike Castle (Brews Brothers, Clipped) around the concepts of separating the art from the artist, whether spoilers for a story are a good or bad thing, and the glamorization and embellishments that biopics often indulge in. The trio even display their most pretentious voices possible to set the record straight on this film with some snooty fact-checking!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Miniature Hobbiton Display

Fact Check article 1

Fact Check article 2

Trivia from IMDb

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Memes, Parodies, and More (w/ Paul Scheer) Oct 06, 2020

After finishing both Peter Jackson trilogies, Lauren and Nicole are ready to decompress, have a laugh, and perhaps even learn a thing or two in this episode of Newcomers all about the memes, parodies, and other bits and bobs that have cropped up over the years surrounding the Lord of the Rings franchise.

Joined by actor, comedian and podcaster Paul Scheer (The League, Black Monday, How Did This Get Made?), the three will navigate all sorts of hilarity, ranging from comparisons between Gandalf and Betty White, to oddly relevant and topical jabs at peoples' responses to COVID-19. Later, Paul will introduce Lauren and Nicole to the deepest of deep cuts: rare footage of another well-known pointy-eared hero of pop culture singing a ballad for our dear Biblo, er... Diplo, er... Bilbo Baggins!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Amazon's Lord of the Rings production article

Betty White and the Balrog

Normal People vs. People with COVID-19

Let Boromir borrow it

Some form of Selfish

Denethor and the Tomato

A Simple Walk Into Mordor

Veggietales - Lord of the Beans

"Frodo, Don't Wear the Ring"

"The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins"

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The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (w/ Zach Reino) Sep 29, 2020

Actor, writer and podcaster Zach Reino (A.P. Bio, Off Book: The Improvised Musical) joins Lauren and Nicole to close out the rollercoaster that has been the Hobbit trilogy with a deep dive into The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

With Zach's musical prowess, the three work together to devise the greatest LOTR musical ever, with one idea just being Bilbo asking/singing for his stuff back from his neighbors the whole time. They also do their actual very best to decipher who all five of the armies are, and to comprehend how Benedict Cumberbatch could have possibly provided a motion capture performance for a gigantic dragon. Stick around to find out if Lauren regrets her fulfilled wish of some dwarves being killed off!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

GameRant article on the Gollum video game

Benedict Cumberbatch's MoCap session as Smaug

Trivia from MovieMistakes.com

Trivia from IMDb

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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug w/ (Karen Han) Sep 22, 2020

Moving on to what the trio will summarize as "The Dead Man's Chest of The Hobbit series", Lauren and Nicole are joined by writer and entertainment reporter Karen Han to shake off the liquid gold and hash out what they just experienced in the second installment of The Hobbit series, The Desolation of Smaug.

The three note the dramatically different portrayals of violence between the first and second movie, consider if a romantic interest's DISinterest in your favorite movies is ever a dealbreaker, and confess their struggle to feel invested in any of these characters unless they look like celebrities they know, or are Bilbo, sometimes. Kind of.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Amazon TV series news article by Radio Times

Trivia from Warped Factor

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (w/ Jon Braylock) Sep 15, 2020

Moving on from the acclaimed The Lord of the Rings trilogy and buckling in for an all new (and again, very long) adventure, Lauren and Nicole are joined by comedian/writer/actor Jon Braylock (Astronomy Club, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt) to begin The Hobbit prequel trilogy, starting with An Unexpected Journey.

The three ponder how on earth Peter Jackson was able to stretch out a short children's book into the three-pronged behemoth the film adaptations became, while also learning that it was an absolute nightmare to create. We also learn about Lauren's early history with The Hobbit, where as a child she performed, as she describes, "as one of those three disgusting, naked things" in one of her first ever plays. Later on, we hear why Nicole thinks Sauron and Saruman should be called Carl and Gary instead. Hopelessly mixed emotions abound with this first installment of The Hobbit trilogy!

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Article on The Hobbit's production chaos

Trivia from IMDb

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The Lord of the Rings Fanfiction (w/ Preeti Chhibber) Sep 08, 2020

Having just finished their first watch through of the acclaimed Peter Jackson trilogy, Lauren and Nicole are joined this week by author, speaker and writer, Preeti Chhibber, to spend some time exploring the world of The Lord of the Rings fanfiction.

The trio navigate stories of varying excitement and severity, discovering their limits in both directions, from too tame to WAY too much. And, of course, they've written a few stories of their own. It's time to make things weird all over again with this new franchise! You knew this was coming...

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Orlando Bloom interview

Preeti's article on (and picture of) Sidharth Malhotra, Indian Elf

Fan Fics:

The Steward's Sons

A Little Care

My Birthday Present

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The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (w/ Gaby Paiella and Callie Beusman) Sep 01, 2020

Lauren and Nicole are joined by writers and LOTR fanatics Gaby Paiella (GQ) and Callie Beusman (The Cut) to close out the final installment of the Peter Jackson Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Return of the King.

The four of them venture fearlessly into topics of conversation such as who in the Fellowship has Big Dick Energy, why Callie thinks the Director's Cut is the only way to go (it has a lot to do with a particularly goofy-looking orc), the continued dissection of how the film creates such extreme illusions of size and proportion in characters, pondering why this franchise gets such universal acclaim versus all the backlash Star Wars constantly receives, and also, "Who the f*** is the Witch King!?"

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

"Which Lord of the Rings Characters Have Big Dick Energy?" article

Gaby's article on Vanessa Hudgens' Lord of the Rings themed birthday party

Trivia from IMDB

Trivia from MovieMistakes.com

Trivia from Mental Floss

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The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (w/ Mary Holland) Aug 25, 2020

Helping Nicole and Lauren make sense of and, dare we say, enjoy, Peter Jackson's second installment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Two Towers, is Mary Holland (Comedy Central's Robbie / Jedi Temple Challenge).

Listen in as they hash out points of varying importance such as how flawless Gandalf the White's new hair is, the finer details of Elven love and aging, the baffling games the films play on our perception of characters' sizes, and Mary's command of the Elvish language.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Trivia from Screen Rant

Trivia from Mental Floss

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The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (w/ Jon Gabrus) Aug 18, 2020

Nicole and Lauren embark on their epic journey across Middle-earth, discussing the first installment of Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Fellowship of the Ring.

Your hosts can't do it alone, though. Jon Gabrus (The High & Mighty, The Action Boyz) returns to the pod to guide his friends through the first steps of their quest. And if you thought the #1 fuccboi nerded-out hard with Star Wars, you've heard nothing yet. Nothing.

Sure, they discuss the plot, but that's secondary to the important stuff: Who in the Fellowship is a daddy? What are they smoking in those pipes? Why do the wizards have a breakdance fight? What are any of these characters' names? Why is everyone white? Where the hell is Gollum?

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and let us know what LOTR media you'd like the series to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Fellowship of the Ring Trivia from IMDB

Advertise on Newcomers via Gumball.fm

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Nicole Byer and Lauren Lapkus are watching Lord of the Rings! (Trailer) Aug 14, 2020

Nicole and Lauren are back at it again with experiencing more critical pop culture for the first time. In season 2 of Newcomers, they'll be taking on The Lord of the Rings, starting with the Peter Jackson trilogy!

Joined by their own fellowship of LOTR fans, ranging from fellow comedians to creators involved in the franchise, Nicole and Lauren will be in good company, being guided both safely and absurdly through their new journey to Middle-Earth.

Subscribe today and catch the first episode of the new season, launching 8/18!

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Spaceballs (w/ Mary Holland and Ahmed Best) Jun 30, 2020

To celebrate our Star Wars finale, we're joined by Ahmed Best (voice of Jar Jar Binks) and Mary Holland (voice of AD-3 droid) to talk about your top movie suggestion - the 1987 Mel Brooks satire film Spaceballs. Mary and Ahmed also discuss what it's like hosting the new children's Star Wars game show series, Jedi Temple Challenge. Plus, Ahmed shares the incredible audition process behind Jar Jar, how it caused a rift between him and Michael Jackson, and what it's like working with George Lucas.

Sources for this episode:

Bob It! Baby Yoda

Spaceballs Trivia from IMDB

Also, we announce what we're covering for season two! So stay subscribed to this same feed, we'll have new episodes releasing later this summer. Thanks for listening!

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Star Wars: The Clone Wars (w/ Preeti Chhibber) Jun 16, 2020

Star Wars author Preeti Chhibber (The Clone Wars Anthology, A Jedi You Will Be) joins Nicole and Lauren to break down the critically acclaimed series finale to Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Have Nicole and Lauren been gaslit into liking Star Wars? Is baby Yoda not who we thought he was? Plus more Hoth Goss about 90 Day Fiancé, Disneyland reopening, and how to become a writer for Disney.

Looking to watch before listening? Here are the episodes we cover:

S1E19 - Storm Over Ryloth

S5E20 - The Wrong Jedi

S7E9 - Old Friends Not Forgotten

S7E10 - The Phantom Apprentice

S7E11 - Shattered

S7E12 - Victory and Death

Media mentioned in this episode:

Stormtroopers enforcing social distancing at Disney Springs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cCmJX7fOmU

Preeti's Baby Yoda celebrating May the 4th

https://twitter.com/runwithskizzers/status/1257308111263522816

George Lucas watching Ewan Mcgregor get a haircut

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFvTkUOo1uI

The Clone Wars MOCAP fight sequence

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzYyJa2Upas

Beat Saber gameplay

https://twitter.com/MarsMel/status/1271951033678389248

We'll be back in two weeks for our Star Wars season finale.

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Ewok Adventures (w/ Joel Kim Booster) Jun 03, 2020

Have Lauren and Nicole changed their tune on Ewoks? Comedian and Star Wars superfan Joel Kim Booster (Sunnyside, Singled Out) joins us to break down the 2 Ewok movies from the 80's: 'Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure' and 'Ewoks: The Battle for Endor'.

Next episode, we watch the series premiere and 4-part finale of The Clone Wars.

Please donate to organizations fighting against racism and police brutality. Click here to donate.

Sources this episode:

Ewok Adventures Trivia

The Battle for Endor Trivia

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Black Lives Matter Jun 02, 2020

We stand together with the Black community and against racism, bigotry, and violence. Today, Headgum is taking part in “Black Out Tuesday”, to show solidarity and use our platform to fight against racial inequality.

What can you do on Tuesday, June 2, 2020?

Be an ally and engage in anti-racism. Here are some resources.
Help the family of George Floyd HERE.
Fight for Breonna Taylor HERE.
Help the family of Ahmaud Arbery HERE.
Want to help protesters? Donate to one or more community bail funds HERE.
Visit Movement For Black Lives for additional ways you can help the cause.
Want to connect with leaders building grass roots campaigns? Click HERE.

EDIT: Headgum has matched $10,000! Please continue to donate in support of organizations fighting against racism and police brutality. Here's where you can donate.

We’ll be back tomorrow covering the 2 Ewok movies from the 80’s with Joel Kim Booster. It’s great. But until then, the show must be paused.

#BlackLivesMatter #TheShowMustBePaused

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The Mandalorian (w/ Griffin Newman & David Sims) May 19, 2020

It's Baby Yoda time! Co-hosts of Blank Check, Griffin Newman (actor/comedian, The Tick) and David Sims (Film critic, writer for The Atlantic) join us to tackle episodes 1-3 of The Mandalorian series on Disney+. They break down how Disney avoided Baby Yoda spoilers, explain the 2-person puppetry behind it, and share their overall LOVE for The Child. They maybe even convinced Nicole and Lauren to keep watching?

Plus a bonus POST ROLL: Talking about Amanda Bynes' thirst, Drake's purse collection, and our wikiFeet ratings.

Links for this episode

Baby Yoda Moms Tweet (since deleted)

Griffin Newman's Watto Costume

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Star Wars Day & Star Wars Toys! (w/ Connor Ratliff) May 05, 2020

May the 4th be with you! Okay, we're a day late but we still want to celebrate. To retrospect the Skywalker Saga and break down the significance of Star Wars Day, George Lucas impersonator Connor Ratliff (from The George Lucas Talk Show, & the Dead Eyes podcast) joins us! Connor explains why the movies are great but don't make sense, gives insightful advice how everyone can enjoy the series, and pop quizzes the girls on their newfound Star Wars knowledge.

Later, we explore the Star Wars media even bigger than the films.... the toys! We talk about how Star Wars toys revolutionized the toy industry, the 'holy grail' of Star Wars toys, and the drama associated with licensing them.

Plus, the girls are really, really, excited that Oprah Magazine named Newcomers one of their top 25 comedy podcasts to binge, so expect a lot of hot Oprah talk.

Check out Connor's Headgum podcast Dead Eyes - where he investigates why Tom Hanks fired him from a small role in Band of Brothers.

Stick around for the post-roll for a clip of Nicole being quizzed about Star Wars on The George Lucas Talk Show from 2015. We're off next week - see you the following Tuesday!

Sources for this episode:

The Toys That Made Us - Star Wars

Vintage Kenner Star Wars Toys Commercials

R2-D2 Abilities

Star Wars Merch Revenue

History of Star Wars Toys

Jar Jar Binks Lollipop

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Star Wars: Ep. IX - The Rise of Skywalker (w/ Matt Gourley) Apr 28, 2020

It's the final film of the Star Wars saga! Matt Gourley (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, Superego) joins us to answer our questions about the highly divisive Rise of Skywalker film. Who did Palpatine sleep with? Why is it dangerous for a droid to speak Sith? Will this really be the last film? Plus, Matt also explains all the cool puppeteering used in the film, the hot multiple romances going on, and so much more!

Check out Matt Gourley new podcast - Bonanas for Bonanza with Andy Daly and Maria Banford.

And finally, May the 4th be with you! Next week is Star Wars week and we want to celebrate everything around the franchise. Let us know what you'd like us to cover in your review for the show.

Sources for this episode:

Rise of Skywalker Plot

MovieMistakes (Trivia)

Rise of Skywalker IMDB (Trivia)

RogerEbert.com Review

The Guardian Review

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More Star Wars Fanfiction (w/ Betsy Sodaro) Apr 21, 2020

After popular demand, we're back reading all new Star Wars fanfiction! Comedian & writer Betsy Sodaro (host of A Funny Feeling, voice on Duncanville) joins us to read our new original stories, and a few fanfic from the web. Warning, this episode is very, very NSFW.

Listen to our first fanfiction episode here.

Fan Fictions

If It Weren’t for the Falcon by reylolove44

Star Wars: The Deceived by Darth Vicium

Next week - we complete the sequel trilogy with Rise of Skywalker.

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Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (w/ Mano Agapion) Apr 14, 2020

Who's cashing the check for these CGI'd actors? Can they just screenshot a hologram? Why is the Star Wars timeline so convoluted?? We've got questions after watching Rogue One, the first Star Wars spin-off film. Nicole's podcasting co-host Mano Agapion (host of Drag Her, We Love Trash) joins us to answer all of our burning questions! Plus, Lauren finds a meditative use in the Force, and Nicole's losing track between the white woman of Star Wars.

Like Newcomers? Enter the 5-Star Wars by leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Let us know ideas for your dream Star Wars fan fiction!

Sponsor:

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Sources for this episode:

Rogue One Film Summary

Trivia

RogerEbert.com Review

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Solo: A Star Wars Story (w/ Shaun Diston) Apr 07, 2020

Is this the Star Wars love story we've been waiting for? Did Lando fuck his droid? What the heck is a parsec?Today, self-proclaimed "Human version of Jar Jar Binks" Shaun Diston (Wrecked, George Lucas Talk Show) joins us to break down the 2018 Han Solo spin-off film, Solo: A Star Wars Story. He explains what lead Disney to fire the 2 original directors months into filming, all the sneaky little details in the film, and the importance of "Who shot first?" for Star Wars fans.

Stay inside, everybody!

Like this show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Let us know what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover on a future episode.

Sponsor:

Manscape: Get 20% off and free shipping with the code NEWCOMERS at Manscaped.com

Sources for this episode

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Star Wars: Ep. VIII - The Last Jedi (w/ Demi Adejuyigbe) Mar 31, 2020

Comedian & Star Wars dork Demi Adejuyigbe (The Late Late Show with James Corden, Punch Up The Jam) joins us for the highly anticipated Star Wars episode, The Last Jedi. We talk about all the new cute alien species, secret guest stars, and overall wild horniness of the film. Plus, Demi pitches his BB-8 spinoff movie idea, and dispenses us with so much Star Wars trivia!

Stay safe, and stay at home everybody!

Sponsor:

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Sources for this episode:

The Last Jedi Film Summary

The Last Jedi Trivia

Forbes Review

The Daily Beast Review

The Guardian Review

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Star Wars: Ep. VII - The Force Awakens (w/ Paul F. Tompkins) Mar 23, 2020

We are in quarantine, but that won't stop us from podcasting! Paul F. Tompkins (Threedom, The Neighborhood Listen) joins us remotely to break down the first installment in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. We discuss the Kylo Ren backstory we wanted to see, all of the hot Star Wars daddies, and play Fuck, Marry, Kill with the Chewbacca family. Plus, Paul shares his experience meeting Harrison Ford, and we all talk about how self isolation is driving us crazy.

Watch our reactions to The Force Awakens movie trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH1ZF0mhRrk

Sponsor:

EveryPlate - Get 3 weeks of meals for only $2.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code newcomers3.

Sources for this episode:

The Force Awakens IMDB

The Force Awakens Metacritic

The Hollywood Reporter Review

The Guardian Review

Roger Ebert Review

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Star Wars Ep. III - Revenge of the Sith (w/ Andy Daly) Mar 17, 2020

Comedian and Star Wars fan Andy Daly (Veep, Big Mouth, Review) joins us to break down the final film of the prequel series: Revenge of the Sith. Andy shares his experience growing up as an obsessed fan, how George Lucas would segregate Star Wars superfans, and the logistical problems with the prequel's technology.

Plus, Lauren's starting to love the Jedi way, Nicole cracks the Skywalker family lineage, and they both offer their punched up version of the prequels.

Order the complete Review series on DVD here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084Z4JQF4/

Like this show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Let us know what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover on a future episode.

Sources for this episode:

Revenge of the Sith IMDB

Revenge of the Sith Wookieepedia

Revenge of the Sith Movie Mistakes

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The Star Wars Holiday Special (w/ Oscar Montoya) Mar 10, 2020

This holiday special is so terrible that once it aired, George Lucas made sure it could never broadcast again. On this episode of Newcomers, we take a quick break from finishing the prequel series to review the absolute fever dream that is the Star Wars Holiday Special from 1978. This film has it all- a sci-fi drag queen, hypnotic Wookiee porn, fascist themes, and queer canon?! Oscar Montoya (host of Spanish Aqui Presents, Inside the Disney Vault, & voice on Fox's Inside The Heart) joins us to break it all down. Plus, we listen to the song "What Can You Get a Wookiee for Christmas (When He Already Owns a Comb?)" from the Star Wars Christmas Album, "Christmas in the Stars".

Watch the Star Wars Holiday Special here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hH8rxarVG8

Like this show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Let us know what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover on a future episode.

Sources for this episode:

The Star Wars Holiday Special Wookieepedia

IMDB - Holiday Special Trivia

CNET Review

Reelviews Review

What Can You Get a Wookiee for Christmas (When He Already Owns a Comb?)

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Star Wars Ep. II - Attack of the Clones (w/ Mike Mitchell) Mar 03, 2020

Oh boy, this film was so bad that Nicole and Lauren are regretting doing this podcast. Mike Mitchell (Love, Doughboys podcast) joins us in an attempt to defend what is universally considered the worst prequel in Star Wars. They discuss the odd dialogue, lack of Jar Jar Binks, and questionable romance subplot. Plus, the girls fantasize about 69-ing the sexy Kaminoan alien race, Mike shares some pornographic Star Wars images, and breaks down how Star Wars fans are so divided.

Check out Mike Mitchell's other Headgum podcast, Doughboys.

Sources for this episode:

Jar Jar Binks on set photo

Movie Mistakes Attack of the Clones trivia

Attack of the Clones IMDB

Attack of the Clones Wookieepedia

Roger Ebert Review

Rolling Stone Review

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Star Wars Ep. I - The Phantom Menace (w/ Nick Wiger) Feb 25, 2020

In a shocking turn of events, Nicole and Lauren are now Star Wars heads? Phantom Menace stan Nick Wiger (Doughboys, How Did This Get Played) joins them to recounts the historical hype for Ep. I, Liam Neeson's rumored huge dick, lightsaber continuity between trilogies, and their love/hate for the new CG look of the series. Plus, the girls rank the all Star Wars films they've seen so far.

Be sure to check out Nick's other Headgum podcast - Doughboys.

Like this show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and write in the review what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover.

Sources for this episode:

The Phantom Menace Wookieepedia

Roger Ebert Review

Rolling Stone Review

The Phantom Menace Production Facts

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Star Wars Fanfiction (w/ Madeline Walter) Feb 18, 2020

Warning: this episode is very, very NSFW. Nicole and Lauren are joined by writer/improviser Madeline Walter (UCB, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) to discuss fanfiction, read some hot Star Wars stories, and share their own original fanfic writings. They also discuss Freddie Prinze Jr's recent public Star Wars rant, the popularity of sneaking sexuality in kids media, and the burning question - Can you use the Force to make someone cum?

Next week, we review Star Wars Ep. I - The Phantom Menace.

Sources For This Episode:

BookRiot - History of Fan fiction

C3PO Trading Card With the "giant dick"

Freddie Prinze Jr. Star Wars Rant

Fan Fiction:

He's My Brother by NotebookishType

Distractor by Merfilly

The First by guineapiggie

Music Used:

"Dream of You" from purple-planet.com

“Somber Solitude" by Jordan Winslow jordanwinslow.me

"Touch" Piano solo by Mattia Cupelli

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Star Wars Ep. VI - Return of the Jedi (w/ Emily Yoshida) Feb 11, 2020

Ok, Nicole and Lauren are fully ON BOARD! They loved this film and can't wait to get into it. Film critic/writer Emily Yoshida (Vulture, AVClub, The Verge, & host of the Night Call podcast) joins them to discuss their love for Ewoks, Carrie Fisher's visible coke nail, and all the surprising deaths in this film. Plus, the girls start writing ideas for their own Star Wars fan fiction.

Emily Yoshida's Star Wars articles:

All the CGI Characters in the Star Wars Prequels, Ranked From Tolerable to Inexcusable

Why Rogue One Gets the “Dark Reboot” Right

The Star Wars Holiday Special

Sources for this episode:

Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi Wookieepedia

Roger Ebert review

New York Times review

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Star Wars Ep. V - The Empire Strikes Back (w/ Jon Gabrus) Feb 04, 2020

Does Vader's army know his face looks like a chewed up piece of gum? Why is Chewie always so stressed out? And, is this the best the series is going to get? The girls have questions, and Star Wars fan and #1 fuccboi Jon Gabrus (High & Mighty, ActionBoyz podcast) is here to answer.

They also the discuss the best practical effects and worst special effects, the lack of romance, and and the rise of Lucas's production empire. While the girls warm up to the series, Gabrus has a few words for the angry Star Wars fans listening.

Be sure to check out Gabrus's other HeadGum podcast - High & Mighty.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and write in the review what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover.

Sources for this episode:

The Empire Strikes Back Wookieepedia

The New York Times review from 1980

The Origin of Darth Vader: The Voice

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Star Wars Ep. IV - A New Hope Watch-Along with Nicole Byer and Lauren Lapkus Jan 28, 2020

This is a bonus episode with live reactions and commentary as Lauren and Nicole watch Star Wars Ep. IV - A New Hope for the very first time. You can sync up the film on Disney+ with us to watch along in real-time!

If you'd like to skip to the film discussion, check out the first official episode where we sit down with John Gemberling (Big Mouth, Broad City) to breakdown what we just watched.

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Star Wars Ep. IV - A New Hope (w/ John Gemberling) Jan 28, 2020

Oh boy. Lauren and Nicole have just watched their first Star Wars, and they have questions. Like, what's the devil doing in the Cantina? Is Chewbacca a pet? What was the motivation behind the alien in the trash compactor?

Comedian and Star Wars fan John Gemberling (Big Mouth, Broad City) joins us to answer cultural importance of the original Star Wars series, the lore, characters, and convince the girls to keep on watching.

Want to watch Star Wars Ep. IV in realtime with Nicole and Lauren? Check out our bonus watch-a-long episode where you can sync up the film and hear their reactions.

Like the show? Rate Newcomers 5-Stars on Apple Podcasts and write in the review what Star Wars media you'd like us to cover.

Sources for this episode:

Star Wars Wookieepedia

Original Reviews from 1977

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Nicole Byer and Lauren Lapkus are Watching Star Wars! (Trailer) Jan 10, 2020

Nicole and Lauren have never seen a Star Wars. In this new series, they will watch each series in theatrical order, and will be joined by comedian Star Wars fans to fill them in on 42 years of missed pop culture.

In the trailer, they discuss why they never got into the series, what life has been like never having seen Star Wars, and have a realization that Star Wars is quite similar 90 Day Fiancé.

Subscribe today and catch the first episode, launching 1/28!

Series theme song by TOMI.

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