The Takeaway: Movie Date

Movie Date's Best Films of 2015 Jan 01, 2016

Rafer and Kristen wrap up 2015 with their favorite films of the year.

Concussion, Joy, The Revenant, The Hateful Eight, and Much More! Dec 24, 2015

There are seven big releases this Christmas 2015, and Rafer and Kristen review (almost) all of them.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Sisters, Coat of Many Colors Dec 18, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," "Sisters," and "Coat of Many Colors.

In the Heart of the Sea, The Big Short, Lady in the Van, and the Golden Globe Nods Dec 11, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "In the Heart of the Sea," "The Big Short," and "Lady in the Van." They also weigh in on this year's Golden Globe nods.

Youth, Chiraq, The Letters, Krampus, Master of None Dec 05, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Youth," "Chiraq," "The Letters," "Krampus," and "Master of None."

Carol, The Good Dinosaur, Creed, The Danish Girl Nov 25, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcasts include reviews "Carol," "The Good Dinosaur," and "Creed"; as well as a conversation with the screenwriter of "The Danish Girl."

Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2, The Secret in Their Eyes, The Night Before Nov 20, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "The Secrets in Their Eyes," "The Night Before," and "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2."

Love the Coopers, 33, By the Sea, Spotlight Nov 17, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review Love the Coopers, 33, By The Sea, and Spotlight. They also share some confessions.

Spectre, Peanuts, Brooklyn, Suffragette Nov 07, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast centers on a man named Bond, a boy named Brown, a borough called Brooklyn, and some women in Britain.

Our Brand is Crisis, Truth, Scout's Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse, Burnt Oct 30, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review two movies about politics, one about zombies, and another about a very mean chef.

Jem, The Last Witch Hunter, The Ghost Dimension, Rock the Kasbah, and Room Oct 23, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast includes a very special radio play acted out by Rafer, Kristen, Sean Rameswaram (of "Sideshow"), and Katie Bishop (of "Death, Sex & Money").

"Bridge of Spies," "Crimson Peak," "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" Oct 16, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Bridge of Spies," "Crimson Peak," and the new musical TV series "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend."

"Steve Jobs," "Pan," and a Speed Date! Oct 13, 2015

We've all heard of Peter Pan and Steve Jobs and there have been plenty of movies about them both. Do we need two more?

"The Walk," "The Martian," and Movie Therapy Oct 02, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "The Walk" and "The Martian," and administer some October-themed Movie Therapy.

"Stonewall," "Sicario," "The Intern," "Muppets" Sep 26, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast is filled with lessons, some of which involve handkerchiefs, some which end in cannibalism.

Revenge of the Amazing Maize Maze Sep 18, 2015

What's it like being trapped in a maze? Kristen knows. What's it like being able to pronounce Dermot Mulroney's name? Rafer knows.

Grandmas and Pastors Sep 11, 2015

This week's podcast is all about grandparents and pastors. Some are good, some aren't so good, and some might just put you to sleep.

Walking in the Woods, Driving the Getaway Car Sep 04, 2015

This week, Rafer and Kristen review "A Walk in the Woods" and "The Transporter Refueled," and answer a Movie Therapy question for everyone who cares about diversity in kids' films.

The Porn Episode Aug 27, 2015

Today's episode of Movie Date is all about indecent movies, and it features special guest Dan Savage!

The Ultimate Killing Machine Aug 21, 2015

Two of this week's movies feature humans that have been programmed to be killing machines. Which, if either, is worth seeing?

Would you rather live in 1963 or 1986? Aug 14, 2015

This week's movies take us back in time, to 1986 and 1963. Which era would you rather live in?

Is This The Worst Action Movie Ever? Aug 07, 2015

What does it sound like when sheep sing? Is Ricki flashy? And is "The Fantastic Four" the worst action movie ever?

Vacation to an Achievable Mission Jul 31, 2015

Is this mission really impossible? Do we need another vacation? And why is William F. Buckley swearing at Gore Vidal?

Pac-man, Punches, Prison, and Pissed-Off Moms Jul 24, 2015

Pac-man, punches, prison, and pissed-off moms. There's a lot to enjoy in this week's movies if you're a fan of any of these.

Is That Your Finger In the Jelly? Jul 17, 2015

There are three very different jars of jelly on the shelf this week, and one man has his finger in every jar.

Check in Your Brain and Swap Your Body Jul 10, 2015

Check in your brain, because you won't necessarily need it. And swap your body, because yes, you can. It's "Minions" and "Self/Less" time!

Proud to be an American Jul 02, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Terminator Genisys," "Amy," and "Magic Mike XXL." They also discuss the movies that make them proud to be American.

When Animals Talk, Do We Really Want to Hear What They Say? Jun 26, 2015

When animals talk, do we really want to hear what they say? It depends on whether it's a teddy bear or a dog who's doing the talking.

It's All About That Sax Jun 19, 2015

Is "Inside Out" ripping off "Herman's Head"? Is "Dope" a remake of "Risky Business"? And what's up with all the sax solos on this week's Movie Date podcast?

Quirky Girls, Crazy Dads, and Working Women Jun 15, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast has a little something for everyone, especially those who love quirky girls, hate crazy dads, and presume that working women are the root of all evil.

Sex and War and Rock and Roll Jun 05, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast is all sex and war and rock and roll, as Rafer and Kristen review "Entourage," "Spy," "Testament of Youth," "Love and Mercy," and a special Mystery Date!

The Earth is Mad and So is Everyone in Hawaii Jun 01, 2015

The earth is mad in "San Andreas" and everyone is mad in Hawaii. At least, they will be mad after they see "Aloha."

The Future Isn't What It Used to Be May 22, 2015

The future used to be a bright shiny thing covered in chrome and dreams. But as "Tomorrowland" reminds us, the future isn't what it used to be.

Let's Sing A Song About Dystopia May 16, 2015

When the world is coming to an end, and mankind is reduced to their most animal instincts, the only logical thing to do is race cars and sing pop songs a capella.

Were You The Coolest Kid In Your High School? May 08, 2015

Were you the coolest kid in your high school? Rafer and Kristen weren't. But neither was Jack Black (in his latest movie, that is).

It's Like A Foreign Movie With No Subtitles May 01, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast features a look at "Welcome to Me," "The Avengers: Age of Ultron," "Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck," and more!

Let's Get Out Our Crystal Balls Apr 28, 2015

Summer is right around the corner, and Rafer and Kristen can't wait. They share their top picks for the months ahead.

Is Technology Our Friend or Foe? Apr 17, 2015

Technology: sometimes it helps us to stay connected. Sometimes it makes us a little too connected...or not connected enough.

Do You Ever Wish You Were Younger? Apr 10, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at three movies that explore youth versus age. And bonus: the conversation includes special guest Kristen Stewart!

Fighting Nazis, Fast (Not Furious), and Recommendations for Crying Apr 03, 2015

This week, Rafer and Kristen explore movies that involve fighting Nazis and being fast (not furious). They also help a listener who wants help letting the tears out.

Sometimes A Predictable Date Can Still Be a Fine Date Mar 27, 2015

This week's new releases aren't particularly unique, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're bad dates.

It's Like The Hunger Games, But Much Worse Mar 20, 2015

This week's Movie Date podcast is all about new beginnings...or more accurately, questionable recycling of stuff we already know.

Trying on Glass Shoes, Spinning Lies, and Getting Away with Murder Mar 13, 2015

This week's podcast is filled with liars, working girls, aging gangsters, millionaire murderers and bonus: an adoptee in need of some Movie Therapy.

A Less-Than-Best Hotel, Horrible Robots, and Cult Members on the Loose Mar 06, 2015

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Chappie" and "The Second Best Marigold Hotel." They also dive into Tina Fey's new Netflix series, "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt."

Con Artists, Bringing Back the Dead, and Vampires in their Downtime Feb 27, 2015

In this week's podcast, there are a lot of heavy topics and lousy movies. But on the bright side, Jemaine Clement, of Flight of the Conchords fame, stops by to talk about his new film!

'The Duff,' 'Hot Tub Time Machine 2,' 'McFarland USA,' and Interviews with the Oscar Nominees Feb 20, 2015

It's a jam-packed Movie Date, with reviews of 'The Duff,' 'Hot Tub Time Machine 2,' and 'McFarland USA,' as well as interviews with the Oscar nominees!

'Fifty Shades of Grey,' 'Old Fashioned,' 'Kingsman: The Secret Service,' 'The Slap' Feb 14, 2015

Put on your handcuffs. After much anticipation, 'Fifty Shades of Grey' hits theatres. Also on the chopping block: 'Old Fashioned' and 'Kingsman: The Secret Service.'

'Jupiter Ascending,' 'Mr. Turner,' 'Lovesick,' 'Spongebob,' 'Seventh Son,' Movie Therapy & Sweatpants! Feb 07, 2015

It's another jam-packed week at the Movie Date podcast, as Rafer and Kristen take on 'Jupiter Ascending,' 'Mr. Turner,' 'Lovesick,' 'Spongebob,' 'Seventh Son,' Movie Therapy & Sweatpants!

'Black or White,' 'Project Almanac,' 'Song One,' Sweatpants & Movie Therapy Jan 30, 2015

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen cover all the bases with new releases, Sweatpants picks, an interview, Movie Therapy, and, of course, trivia!

'Cake,' 'The Boy Next Door,' 'Strange Magic,' 'Mordecai,' and Movie Therapy Jan 24, 2015

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen review 'Cake,' 'The Boy Next Door,' 'Strange Magic,' and 'Mordecai.' They also administer some Movie Therapy!

'Paddington,' 'Black Hat,' 'Still Alice,' 'The Wedding Ringer' Jan 16, 2015

It's the kind of week that will make you laugh and cry, and maybe think you have early onset Alzheimer's.

'Taken 3,' 'Inherent Vice,' 'Mozart in the Jungle,' and Listener Mail Jan 09, 2015

It's the early days of January, and you know what that means when it comes it movies...

The Best Movies of 2014 Jan 03, 2015

As we move forward into 2015, Rafer and Kristen take a look back at the very best movies of 2014. They each have a top ten list. Will any of their picks overlap?

Also, there are corrections, listener mail, and trivia.

Happy New Year, Movie Daters! Let's make it a wonderful, cinematic 2015!

RAFER'S TOP TEN FILMS OF 2014

Boyhood Birdman Lego Movie Snowpiercer Listen Up Philip Nightcrawler Whiplash Big Eyes Dear White People Guardians of the Galaxy

KRISTEN'S TOP TEN FILMS OF 2014

Boyhood The Theory of Everything The Imitation Game Whiplash Belle In Secret Snowpiercer Obvious Child The Fault in Our Stars Under the Skin

The Christmas Movie Extravaganza! Dec 24, 2014

There are eight movies you can see in the theatres this Christmas, but which one is the most suitable for the season?

You options: "Into the Woods," "The Gambler," "Two Days, One Night," "Unbroken," "American Sniper," "Big Eyes," "Selma," and, as a surprise to many, Sony's "The Interview."

Rafer and Kristen also take a deep dive into "Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer" for this week's Sweatpants segment. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the stop-motion holiday classic is about a whole lot more than Christmas, the Movie Date team argues.

And, as always, there's trivia!

'The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,' 'Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb,' 'Annie,' 'The Interview' Dec 23, 2014

Two sequels, one remake, and a film you may never see. It's a bizarre and exciting Movie Date podcast!

On the sequels front, we have "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies" and "Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb." Our remake is the reboot of "Annie," starring Quvenzhané Wallis, Jamie Foxx, and Cameron Diaz. And the movie that may never see public eyes is "The Interview," Seth Rogan and James Franco's new movie that inspired terrorist threats from North Korea.

There's also listener mail this week and, as always, trivia!

'Exodus: Gods and Kings,' 'Top Five,' Netflix's 'Marco Polo,' and The Golden Globe Nods Dec 15, 2014

Apologies. This week's Movie Date podcast is coming to you late, from an abandoned room in Rafer's office building. But there's a good explanation, we promise!

Once you settle into the lousy sound quality and get past the tardiness, you'll hear Rafer and Kristen's reviews of Ridley Scott's "Exodus: Gods and Kings" and Chris Rock's "Top Five." You'll also hear the Movie Date team's thoughts on the new Netflix series "Marco Polo" and on this year's Golden Globe nominations.

And, as always, there's trivia!

THE FULL LIST OF GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATIONS

BEST ACTRESS IN A TV SERIES, DRAMAJulianna Margulies, "The Good Wife"Robin Wright, "House of Cards"Viola Davis, "How To Get Away With Murder"Ruth Wilson, "The Affair"Claire Danes, "Homeland"

BEST TV COMEDY"Girls""Jane the Virgin""Orange is the New Black""Silicon Valley""Transparent"

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM"The Lego Movie""Big Hero 6""How to Train Your Dragon 2""The Boxtrolls""The Book of Life"

BEST ORIGINAL SONGJohn Legend & Common, “Glory" ("Selma")Lana Del Rey, “Big Eyes” ("Big Eyes")"Mercy Is" ("Noah")"Opportunity" ("Annie")Lorde, "Yellow Flicker Beat" ("The Hunger Games: Mockingjay — Part I")

BEST ORIGINAL SCOREJohann Johannsson, "The Theory of Everything"Alexandre Desplat, "The Imitation Game"Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, "Gone Girl"Antonio Sanchez, "Birdman"Hans Zimmer, "Interstellar"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A TV SERIES, MINISERIES OR MOTION PICTUREAllison Janney, "Mom"Uzo Aduba, "Orange Is The New Black"Kathy Bates, "American Horror Story: Freak Show"Michelle Monaghan, "True Detective"Joanne Froggatt, "Downton Abbey"

BEST TV MINISERIES OR MOVIE"True Detective""Fargo""The Normal Heart""Olive Kitteridge""The Missing"

BEST ACTRESS IN A TV SERIES, COMEDYJulia Louis-Dreyfus, "Veep"Taylor Schilling, "Orange Is The New Black"Lena Dunham, "Girls"Gina Rodriguez, "Jane the Virgin"Edie Falco, "Nurse Jackie"

BEST SCREENPLAY, MOTION PICTURE"Birdman""Boyhood""Gone Girl""The Grand Budapest Hotel""The Imitation Game"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A TV SERIES, MINISERIES OR MOTION PICTUREMatthew Bomer, "The Normal Heart"Jon Voight, "Ray Donovan"Bill Murray, "Olive Kitteridge"Alan Cumming, "The Good Wife"Colin Hanks, "Fargo"

BEST ACTOR IN A TV SERIES, COMEDYDon Cheadle, "House of Lies"Ricky Gervais, "Derek"Jeffrey Tambor, "Transparent"Louis C.K., "Louie"William H. Macy, "Shameless"

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM"Ida""Tangerine Mandarin""Leviathan""Force Majeure""Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem"

BEST ACTOR, MUSICAL OR COMEDYMichael Keaton, "Birdman"Ralph Fiennes, "The Grand Budapest Hotel"Bill Murray, "St. Vincent"Joaquin Phoenix, "Inherent Vice"Christoph Waltz, "Big Eyes"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR, MOTION PICTUREJ.K. Simmons, "Whiplash"Edward Norton, "Birdman"Mark Ruffalo, "Foxcatcher"Ethan Hawke, "Boyhood"Robert Duvall, "The Judge"

BEST ACTRESS, MOTION PICTURE, DRAMAJulianne Moore, "Still Alice"Reese Witherspoon, "Wild"Rosamund Pike, "Gone Girl"Felicity Jones, "The Theory of Everything"Jennifer Aniston, "Cake"

BEST ACTOR IN A TV MINISERIES OR MOVIEMatthew McConaughey, "True Detective"Billy Bob Thornton, "Fargo"Martin Freeman, "Fargo"Woody Harrelson, "True Detective"Mark Ruffalo, "The Normal Heart"

BEST TV DRAMA"The Good Wife""Downton Abbey""Game of Thrones""The Affair""House of Cards"

BEST ACTOR, TV SERIES, DRAMAKevin Spacey, "House of Cards"Clive Owen, "The Knick"Dominic West, "The Affair"James Spader, "The Blacklist"Liev Schreiber, "Ray Donovan"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS, MOTION PICTUREPatricia Arquette, "Boyhood"Emma Stone, "Birdman"Meryl Streep, "Into The Woods"Keira Knightley, "The Imitation Game"Jessica Chastain, "A Most Violent Year"

BEST ACTRESS, MOTION PICTURE MUSICAL OR COMEDYEmily Blunt, "Into the Woods"Amy Adams, "Big Eyes"Julianne Moore, "Maps to the Stars"Helen Mirren, "The Hundred-Foot Journey"Quvenzhané Wallis, "Annie"

BEST MOTION PICTURE, MUSICAL OR COMEDY"Birdman""Into the Woods""St. Vincent""Pride""The Grand Budapest Hotel"

BEST ACTRESS IN A TV MINISERIES OR MOVIEFrances McDormand, "Olive Kitteridge"Maggie Gyllenhaal, "The Honorable Woman"Jessica Lange, "American Horror Story: Freak Show"Frances O'Connor, "Missing"Allison Tolman, "Fargo"

BEST ACTOR, DRAMAEddie Redmayne, "The Theory of Everything"Benedict Cumberbatch, "The Imitation Game"Steve Carell, "Foxcatcher"David Oyelowo, "Selma"Jake Gyllenhaal, "Nightcrawler"

BEST MOTION PICTURE, DRAMA"Boyhood""Selma""The Imitation Game""The Theory of Everything""Foxcatcher"

BEST DIRECTORRichard Linklater, "Boyhood"Alejandro González Iñárritu, "Birdman"Ava DuVernay, "Selma"David Fincher, "Gone Girl"Wes Anderson, "The Grand Budapest Hotel"

'Wild,' 'Life Partners,' 'She's Beautiful When She's Angry,' Movie Therapy, and Listener Mail Dec 06, 2014

In a Movie Date first, Rafer and Kristen review three films starring and co-starring women. "Wild," starring Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern, is based on Cheryl Strayed's memoir about walking over 1000 miles on the Pacific Coast Trail. "Life Partners" stars Leighton Meester and Gillian Jacobs as two best friends, one gay and the other straight, grappling wiht growing up and finding love. And "She's Beautiful When She's Angry" is a documentary that looks at the achievements of Marilyn Webb, Rita Mae Brown, Fran Beal, and other women involved in the American feminist movement during the 1960s and 1970s.

There's also Movie Therapy this week, administered to a listener who's about to go through some major life changes, as well as some listener mail and fun music.

And, as always, there's trivia!

'Penguins of Madagascar,' 'Horrible Bosses 2,' 'The Imitation Game,' and More! Nov 26, 2014

This week, Rafer and Kristen review 'Penguins of Madagascar,' 'Horrible Bosses 2,' and 'The Imitation Game.' They also read some listener mail, make Sweatpants suggestions, and offer up some code-breaking trivia. Don't suffer in the Black Friday lines. Listen to Movie Date instead!

'Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1,' 'Pulp,' Thanksgiving Sweatpants & Movie Therapy Nov 22, 2014

Thanksgiving is almost upon us, and Rafer and Kristen are rubbing their stomachs. Fortunately, there's both hunger and supermarkets on the big screens, vying for some attention. The hunger, of course, is in the form of "Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1." The supermarkets come in the form of the pop music documentary "Pulp: A Film About Life, Death, and Supermarkets."

There's also a special edition of Sweatpants, for the sweatiest pantiest day of the year: Thanksgiving. And on the Movie Therapy front, there's a more serious question than usual.

Last but not least, trivia!

Happy Thanksgiving, Movie Daters! We're very thankful for you!

'The Theory of Everything,' 'Foxcatcher,' 'Beyond the Lights,' 'Dumb and Dumber To,' Sweatpants & Listener Mail Nov 14, 2014

If you doubted it was Oscar season, we have two words for you: "Dumb and Dumber To." Also out this week: "Beyond the Lights," "The Theory of Everything," and "Foxcatcher." For the stay-on-the couch crowd, we also have this week's Sweatpants pick: "High Maintenance." There's also listener mail that takes us down memory lane. And, as usual, there's trivia!

'Interstellar,' 'Horns,' 'Big Hero 6,' Sweatpants, and Listener Mail Nov 07, 2014

How important is logic in a movie? Does it matter more with the scientific rules of the story? Or with the motivations of the movie's characters? Rafer and Kristen contemplate questions of logic, as well as issues of family in this week's Movie Date.

On the chopping block: Christopher Nolan's outer space story of humanity and heroism, "Interstellar"; "Horns," starring Daniel Radcliffe as a young man who resembles the devil; and "Big Hero 6," which centers on a robotics prodigy and his big, puffy, loving robot friend.

Rafer and Kristen also offer a couple of Sweatpants picks, for those who prefer to sit on the couch, rather than hit the theatres.

There's also listener mail, and, as always, trivia!

'Nightcrawler,' 'Laggies,' 'Before I Go to Sleep,' 'Olive Kitteridge,' 'Mike Tyson Mysteries,' and Angry Listener Mail Oct 31, 2014

It's a haunted Halloween Movie Date with a wide range of creepy options, from an amnesia suspense flick to a sociopath-centered thriller.

Nicole Kidman wakes up confused about who she is and where she is every single day in "Before I Go to Sleep." Jake Gyllenhaal is willing to cross the line as he chases down ambulances in "Nightcrawler." And Keira Knightly hangs out with kids half her age, and sleeps with a man twice her age in "Laggies."

The strangeness continues in this week's Sweatpants conversation. Frances McDormand plays a peculiar Mainer in "Olive Kitteridge" (on HBO, beginning November 2, 2014) and a cartoon Mike Tyson solves mysteries on "Mike Tyson Mysteries" (premiere was this week on Adult Swim).

There's also some angry listener mail this week. And, as always, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'John Wick,' '23 Blast,' 'Citizenfour,' and Special Guest Jason Schwartzman Oct 24, 2014

It's a week when real men are being pushed to their limits, on the football field ("23 Blast"), on the world stage ("Citizenfour"), and in a universe where mobsters kill puppies ("John Wick").

In addition to the new releases, Kristen and Rafer also weigh in on two picks you can watch at home, in their weekly Sweatpants segment.

Plus, special guest Jason Schwartzman, of "Rushmore," "Grand Budapest Hotel," and "Saving Mister Banks" fame stops by to discuss his new film, "Listen Up, Philip."

And, as always, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Dear White People,' 'The Best of Me,' 'Birdman,' 'Fury,' Movie Therapy, and Sweatpants Oct 17, 2014

It's a rage-filled week on the newest Movie Date podcast, as Rafer and Kristen delve into race relations, child abuse, career angst, and war.

Up for review: "Dear White People," from first-time filmmaker Justin Simien; the newest Nicholas Sparks adaptation, "The Best of Me"; the comeback within a comeback film, "Birdman"; and the Brad Pitt-led World War II film, "Fury."

But it's not all anger and rage this week. There's also Movie Therapy for a listener feeling the stress of home renovations. Plus, Rafer and Kristen present a brand new segment, Sweatpants, which features the best of what's on the small screen this week.

And, as always, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'St. Vincent,' 'Kill The Messenger,' 'The Judge,' and Special Guest Damien Chazelle, Writer/Director of 'Whiplash' Oct 10, 2014

This week, Robert Downey, Jr. and Robert Duvall team up as a dysfunctional father and son in "The Judge." Bill Murray reminds us of why he's a lousy babysitter in "St. Vincent." And Jeremy Renner reminds us not to "Kill The Messenger."

If that's not enough miserable jerkiness for you, we also talk abusive teachers - both real and fictional - with Damien Chazelle, writer and director of the new film, "Whiplash."

Stick around long enough, and you'll also be treated to some angry voices in this week's trivia question.

Get out the bourbon...it's a miserable Movie Date!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Gone Girl,' 'Left Behind,' 'Annabelle,' 'Men Women & Children' and Movie Therapy Oct 03, 2014

There's a lot to be afraid of this week: the rapture, homicidal husbands, the internet, and, of course, dolls. That's because, Rafer and Kristen and are reviewing "Left Behind," "Gone Girl," "Men Women & Children," and "Annabelle." They also help a listener who loves watching Halloween movies in the lead-up to Halloween...but needs suggestions of films where Halloween actually factors into the story line. And, as always, there's trivia!

28 Halloween Movies for our Movie Therapy Patient

Movies in Which Halloween is Central to the Plot

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, 1966 The Nightmare Before Christmas, 1993 Tower of Terror, 1997 The Crow, 1994 Halloween, 1978 Halloween II, 1981 Halloween III: Season of the Witch, 1982 Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers, 1988 Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers, 1989 Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers,1995 Halloween H20: 20 Years Later, 1998 Halloween: Resurrection, 2002 Halloween, 2007 Halloween II, 2009

Movies with Notable Trick-or-Treating Scenes

Meet Me in St. Louis, 1944 E.T., 1982 American Splendor, 2003 We Need to Talk About Kevin, 2011 Ed Wood, 1994

Movies in which Pivotal Moments Happen on Halloween

The Karate Kid, 1984 The Guest, 2014 To Kill A Mockingbird, 1962 Donnie Darko, 2001 Cinderella Story, 2004 Mean Girls, 2004 Casper, 1995 Practical Magic, 1998 Twin Falls, Idaho, 1999

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'The Equalizer,' 'Boxtrolls,' 'The Two Faces of January,' and Movie Therapy Sep 26, 2014

Rafer and Kristen never could have imagined 1980s TV shows like "The Equalizer" being made into feature films. What's next? "Simon and Simon"? "Three's Company"? But they try their best to approach the new Denzel Washington film with open minds.

Also up for review: "Boxtrolls," the new children's movie about small creatures trying to survive in a world that doesn't want them and "The Two Faces of January," a thriller starring Viggo Mortenson, Kirsten Dunst, and Oscar Isaac.

Dan Pashman, host of The Sporkful, also makes an appearance on this week's podcast, seeking Movie Therapy for people who prefer movie and a dinner over dinner and a movie. Be sure to check out Dan's delicious podcast, which Kristen has spent the past six months helping to launch with WNYC.

And, last but not least, don't miss this week's Movie Trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'This is Where I Leave You,' 'Tusk,' 'A Walk Among the Tombstones,' 'The Maze Runner,' and Special Guest Simon Pegg Sep 19, 2014

Rafer thinks it's a week for people on film to take personal responsibility for their lives. But not all of them seem up for the task.

The members of the Altman family need to tell the truth and make peace with each other in "This is Where I Leave You." A podcaster needs to face a strange challenger in "Tusk." A former cop must commit crimes to fight crimes in "A Walk Among the Tombstones." And a group of teenage boys must take control of their lives and free themselves of what cages them in "The Maze Runner."

Finally, Simon Pegg discusses the importance of taking personal responsibility for one's happiness, when he sits down with Kristen to discuss his new film, "Hector and the Search for Happiness."

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Dolphin Tale 2,' 'The Drop,' 'The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby,' 'Kelly and Cal,' and Movie Therapy Sep 12, 2014

Rafer thinks it's a red-letter week for women in the movies (if you count dolphins). Kristen's not so sure. Of course, there are other disagreements as well: like, what is a real crisis in a marriage? And why would a suburban mom become BFFs with a teenager? Up for debate: "Dolphin Tale 2," "The Drop," "The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby," and "Kelly and Cal."

Rafer and Kristen also offer up some Movie Therapy to a listener who's sending her only daughter off to college.

And, as usual, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'The Identical,' 'Last Days in Vietnam,' 'Snowpiercer,' and Special Guest Stuart Murdoch on 'God Help the Girl' Sep 05, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast starts with questions, ends with questions, and of course there are plenty of questions in between. Like: What really happened during the fall of Saigon? Was Elvis Jewish? And are voiceovers ever okay? On the chopping block are "Last Days in Vietnam," "The Identical," and (by popular demand) "Snowpiercer."

The Movie Date team also shares a snippet of Kristen's Soundcheck interview with Stuart Murdoch, lead singer and songwriter of Belle & Sebastian and director of the new pop musical film, "God Help the Girl." To hear the full interview, pay a visit to the great WNYC music program Soundcheck.

In response to listener outcry, Kristen gets schooled by The Takeaway's Washington Correspondent Todd Zwillich on how to properly address Dennis Kucinich.

And, of course, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

Fall 2014 Movie Preview Aug 29, 2014

Fall 2014 movie season is right around the corner, and the Movie Date team is geared up with ten of the movies they're most looking forward to.

Rafer's Picks

The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby (September 12) Jimi: All is By My Side (Sepbember 26) Whiplash (October 10) Interstellar (November 7) Foxcatcher (November 14)

Kristen's Picks

Gone Girl (October 3) The Theory of Everything (November 7) The Interview (December 25) This is Where I Leave You (September 12) Annie (December 19)

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'If I Stay,' 'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For,' 'What If,' 'When the Game Stands Tall' Aug 21, 2014

Sometimes it feels like the only thing you can say at the end of a movie is: "Nothing to see here. Move on." And sometimes that feeling applies to every single movie in the theatre. This is one of those weeks. On the chopping block:"If I Stay," "Sin City: A Dame to Kill For," and "What If." Kristen and Rafer also discuss "When the Game Stands Tall" with guest review/sports writer/former athlete Ibrahim Abdul-Matin. And, as always, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Let's Be Cops,' 'The Expendables 3,' 'The Giver,' 'Frank,' and Listener Mail Aug 14, 2014

Rafer and Kristen are having a tough week; the kind of week that has them tag-teaming three movies in one day and quoting lines from "Splash." But they try their best to keep their energy up as they review four of this week's movie releases: "Let's Be Cops," "The Expendables 3," "The Giver," and "Frank." They also respond to a listener who's starved for some clever modern remakes of ancient stories. And, as always, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,' 'The Hundred-Foot Journey,' 'Into the Storm' Aug 08, 2014

Let's just warn you upfront: This week's episode of Movie date includes singing by Kristen, which is pretty terrible. But does anyone sound good when they're singing the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" theme song? Probably not. In addition to singing, there's also some TMNT history and analysis (as well as lots of laughs), courtesy of Scott Rosenberg of AM New York (Movie Date's resident comic book expert). Rafer and Kristen also tackle the new natural disaster movie "Into the Storm" and the food porn / cross-cultural love story "The Hundred-Foot Journey."

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Get on Up,' 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' 'Sharknado 2,' and Special Guest James Franco Aug 01, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast is dedicated to two men named James: James Brown, who's depicted in the new biopic "Get On Up" and James Franco, who directs the new film, "Child of God." James Brown expert Robert Baird, of Stereophile, helps Rafer and Kristen take a closer look at the former. And the real James Franco, along with actor Scott Haze, talks with the Movie Date team about the latter.

Rounding things out are reviews of two of the most highly anticipated films of summer: "Sharknado 2: The Second One," which is currently airing on the SyFy Network, and "Guardians of the Galaxy," which is in theatres.

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Magic in the Moonlight,' 'And So It Goes,' 'Lucy,' and Movie Therapy Jul 25, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review Woody Allen's new romantic comedy, "Magic in the Moonlight," Rob Reiner's "And So It Goes," and the new Scarlett Johansson sci-fi flick, "Lucy." They also offer some Move Therapy to a listener who's recovering from cancer, and in need of films that don't mention cancer. And, as usual, there's trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Sex Tape,' 'Planes: Fire and Rescue,' 'The Purge: Anarchy,' and Special Guest Mandy Patinkin Jul 18, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Sex Tape," "Planes: Fire and Rescue," and "The Purge: Anarchy." They also talk with very special guest Mandy Patinkin about his new film, "Wish I Was Here," and about what all his projects have in common.

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Life Itself,' 'Boyhood,' 'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes' Jul 11, 2014

Rafer and Kristen grapple with serious questions about life and death as they review "Life Itself," "Boyhood," and "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes."

"Life Itself" looks at the life and final days of the esteemed film critic Roger Ebert. Richard Linklater's "Boyhood" was shot over the course of twelve years, using all the same cast members, and tells the story of one family, and their son in particular. And "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" continues the story of humans versus nature which began in the 2011 film "Rise of the Planet of the Apes."

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Earth to Echo,' 'America,' 'Tammy,' and Movie Therapy Jul 03, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen celebrate America's birthday with movies that may or may not leave you bored on the Fourth of July. The new releases for Independence Day include: "Earth To Echo," "America," and "Tammy." Rafer and Kristen also help Hillary Frank, host of WNYC's podcast, The Longest Shortest Time, with some Movie Therapy for new moms. And, as always, there's Movie Trivia!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Transformers 4,' 'Begin Again,' 'Obvious Child,' and Movie Therapy Jun 26, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen ask: When is a robot fight sequence too violent? Why is Hollywood afraid to depict abortion? Does Hollywood understand the music industry? And would a movie centering on lawn darts be a hit? It's all in honor of this week's big releases: "Transformers 4: Age of Extinction," "Obvious Child," and "Begin Again." They also offer up some Movie Therapy to a listener who's both sick and homesick. And, as always, there's Movie Trivia!

Big thanks this week to Jay Cowit and Kurt Leege for their great music and lyrics!

Subscribe to the Movie Date podcast, like Movie Date on Facebook, follow Kristen on Twitter, and leave a message for Rafer and Kristen anytime at 571-7MOVIES (571-766-8437).

'Jersey Boys' and the cast of 'Think Like A Man Too' Jun 20, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast is dedicated to boys and men and broken hearts. Kristen and Rafer begin with the new Clint Eastwood film "Jersey Boys," asking whether it measures up to the Broadway musical. They then have a serious conversation about how race and gender are depicted in the media with Oscar nominee Tarji P. Henson, Golden Globe nominee Michael Ealy, and producer Will Packer (of "Think Like A Man Too"). They wrap things up with a Movie Therapy question for all the folks out there nursing broken hearts. And, as always, there's Movie Trivia!

'How to Train Your Dragon 2' and '22 Jump Street' Jun 13, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at two movies focused on best friends who always have each others' backs: "How to Train Your Dragon 2" and "22 Jump Street." Helping them mull over the debatably homophobic humor of the latter is Eric Sasson, columnist behind the Wall Street Journal's CTRL-ALT column. Rafer and Kristen also dedicate some time to a listener in need of some Father's Day related Movie Therapy. And, as always, there's trivia!

Movie Date: 'The Fault in Our Stars,' 'Edge of Tomorrow,' and Special Guest Gia Coppola Jun 06, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen explore the theme of survival: against aliens and time (in "Edge of Tomorrow"), against cancer and first love (in "The Fault in Our Stars"), and against the awfulness of high school (in "Palo Alto").

Gia Coppola, writer and director of "Palo Alto," joins them, and shares some strange stories about navigating Hollywood as a Coppola, being a first-time director, and first coming into contact with James Franco (whose collection of short stories is the basis for the film).

Huge thanks, once again, to the amazing Jay Cowit, technical director of The Takeaway, for this week's terrific theme music!

Movie Date: 'Maleficent,' 'A Million Ways to Die in the West,' and Special Guest Clive Owen May 29, 2014

What makes a hero and hero and a villain a villain? And are the two really so different? Rafer and Kristen mull over these questions as they look at this week's big releases, which include "Maleficent" (the story of "Sleeping Beauty's" evil fairy); "A Million Ways To Die In the West" (which looks at the romance between a sheep farmer and a gun-slinging wanderer with a checkered past); and "Words and Pictures" (which centers on a teacher who's truly inspiring to his students, but an alcoholic mess on his own time).

Talking Rafer and Kristen through the intricacies of "Words and Pictures" is the one and only Clive Owen, who stars in the film.

A very special thanks to Jay Cowit and Cambra Moniz-Edwards, who performed and wrote music on this week's podcast.

Movie Date: 'Blended,' 'X-Men: Days of Future Past,' and Special Guest John Ottman May 23, 2014

Have we been here before? Because Rafer and Kristen are feeling some serious deja vu. It's all due to the release of the third Sandler-Barrymore romantic comedy and the seventh film in the X-Men franchise.

"Blended" brings Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore back together as a mis-matched pair of single parents, on a joint vacation in South Africa.

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" brings the X-Men back to 1973, to stop the war on mutants before it starts.

Giving Rafer and Kristen some behind-the-scenes insights into the making of "X-Men: Days of Future Past" is John Ottman, who's both the composer and the editor of the film.

A very special thanks to Jay Cowit, who performed and wrote music on this week's podcast.

Movie Date: 'Godzilla,' 'The Immigrant,' 'Million Dollar Arm,' and Special Guest Mark Ciardi May 15, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at the theme of immigration on film through three of this week's big releases. "The Immigrant" follows the story of a Polish woman (Marion Cotillard) who falls victim to an unscrupulous man (Joaquin Phoenix) shortly after arriving at Ellis Island at the turn of the twentieth century. "Godzilla" tells the story of a monster who leaves his home off the coast of Japan to spend some time in Hawaii and California. And "Million Dollar Arm" follows a sports agent (John Hamm) who recruits two young men from India (Siraj Sharma and Madhur Mittal) to play baseball in the U.S. Based on a true story, "Million Dollar Arm" is produced by a real former baseball player, Mark Ciardi. Ciardi sits down with Kristen and Rafer, and reveals some fun facts about how the movie was made, and how much about the characters is true.

A very special thanks to Jay Cowit, who performed and wrote music on this week's podcast.

Movie Date: 'Neighbors,' 'Moms' Night Out,' 'Chef,' 'Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return' May 09, 2014

It's an odd mix of adult humor, faith-based comedy, indie food porn, and animated family fair in this week's Movie Date podcast, as Rafer and Kristen review "Neighbors" (starring Seth Rogan and Zac Efron), "Moms' Night Out" (starring Patricia Heaton and Trace Adkins), "Chef" (starring Jon Favreau, Sofia Vergara, and Scarlett Johansson), and "Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return" (starring Lea Michele and Dan Aykroyd).

Movie Date: 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2,' 'Belle,' 'Locke' May 02, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen enlist the help of a real comic book enthusiast as they review "The Amazing Spider-Man 2." Scott Rosenberg, in addition to loving superheroes, is the entertainment editor of AM New York. Rafer and Kristen also review two smaller movies: "Locke," a one-man movie starring Tom Hardy; and "Belle," a historical drama starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tom Wilkinson, and Emily Watson.

Movie Date: 'Brick Mansions,' 'The Other Woman,' and Movie Therapy Apr 25, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast is all about revenge, as Rafer and Kristen review "Brick Mansions" and "The Other Woman." "Brick Mansions" centers on a good cop (Paul Walker) who's out to kill the man who murdered his father. "The Other Woman" centers on several women (Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, Kate Upton) who've all been wronged by the same man, and set out to punish him. Additionally, Rafer and Kristen administer some Movie Therapy to a listener who needs help with an upcoming journey. And, as always, there's trivia!

Movie Date: 'Transcendence,' 'Heaven is for Real,' and the TV Series 'Fargo' Apr 18, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen grapple with two very different interpretations of life after death, in "Heaven is For Real" and "Transcendence." The first is a faith-based film based on a real memoir, starring Greg Kinnear. The second is a sci-fi thriller about the melding of mind and computer, starring Johnny Depp and Rebecca Hall. One of them has Rafer yelling about it being the worst movie of the year. The other has Kristen wondering whether Jesus really has blue-green eyes. Also on the podcast: A look at the new FX series, "Fargo," which is based on the 1996 film of the same name; listener mail about films with social messages; and, as always, trivia!

Movie Date: 'Rio 2,' 'Draft Day,' 'Oculus' Apr 11, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at three very different films: "Rio 2," which brings the message of eco-terrorism to children; "Draft Day," which attempts to do for football what "Moneyball" did for baseball; and "Oculus," a movie about a haunted mirror that brings far more than seven years bad luck. Helping them to dissect "Oculus" is scholar Mark Pendergrast, author of "Mirror Mirror: A History of the Human Love Affair with Reflection."

Movie Date: 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier,' 'Under the Skin,' and Special Guest Scarlett Johansson Apr 04, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast is all Scarlett Johansson all the time! From their review of "Captain American: The Winter Soldier," to an accented audio trivia question, to a very special interview in person with the star herself, Rafer and Kristen are in a Scarlett mood!

Movie Date: 'Noah' and 'Cesar Chavez' Mar 28, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen take a closer look at some of the not-so-literal elements of the new movie "Noah." Among those elements: rock monsters, magical wizards, bazookas, and alcoholism? Helping them to mull it all over, and giving his own take on the new Darren Aronofsky movie is Christian blogger Brian Godawa. Rafer and Kristen also review the new biopic "Cesar Chavez," answer an unusual movie therapy question, and, of course, offer up some movie trivia.

Movie Date: 'Divergent,' 'Muppets Most Wanted,' 'Nymphomaniac Volume 1,' and Special Guest Stellan Skarsgard Mar 21, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk everything from doppelgangers to dystopia to sex addiction. It's all in honor of the new films "Muppets Most Wanted," "Divergence," and "Nymphomaniac: Volume 1." Helping them understand the intricacies of "Nymphomaniac" is one of the film's stars, Stellan Skarsgard. Warning: this podcast includes some adult content, including references to a certain sex act with an avian nickname.

Movie Date: 'Grand Budapest Hotel,' 'Need for Speed,' 'Veronica Mars,' and More! Mar 14, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review the video game-turned-movie "Need for Speed," the latest Wes Anderson confection, "The Grand Budapest Hotel," and the fan-funded movie, "Veronica Mars." Along the way, they talk with one of the Veronica Mars fans who made the film possible, Cindy Au. They also get a whopper of a Movie Therapy question, spanning six decades and even more films. And, as always, there's movie trivia!

Movie Date: 'Mr. Peabody & Sherman' and '300: Rise of an Empire' Mar 08, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen hop into the WABAC machine for a trip to the rebooted world of "Mr. Peabody & Sherman" and the sword and sandal past of "300: Rise of An Empire." And bonus: to help them better understand the true identity of Mister Peabody, they are joined by Sarah Montague, WNYC's resident dog expert, who covers, among other dog-related events, the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

Movie Date: Bonus Oscar Podcast! Feb 28, 2014

In this very special Movie Date bonus podcast, listeners have a chance to re-listen to Rafer and Kristen's Oscar predictions from earlier in this year. Also, all three parts from The Takeaway series "Real People / Best Pictures" (produced by Kristen and hosted by John Hockenberry) are here, with some voices we don't normally hear on Oscar night (but maybe should). For more on the series "Real People / Best Pictures," visit the official site.

THE FULL LIST OF ACADEMY AWARD NOMINEES

Best Picture

"12 Years A Slave" "American Hustle" "Dallas Buyers Club" "Her" "Nebraska" "Captain Phillips" "The Wolf of Wall Street" "Gravity" "Philomena"

Actor in a Leading Role

Bruce Dern - "Nebraska" Chiwetel Ejiofor - "12 Years A Slave" Matthew McConaughey - "Dallas Buyers Club" Christian Bale - "American Hustle" Leonardo DiCaprio - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Actor in a Supporting Role

Barkhad Abdi - "Captain Phillips" Michael Fassbender - "12 Years A Slave" Jared Leto - "Dallas Buyers Club" Bradley Cooper - "American Hustle" Jonah Hill - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Actress in a Leading Role

Cate Blanchett - "Blue Jasmine" Sandra Bullock - "Gravity" Judi Dench - "Philomena" Meryl Streep - "August: Osage County" Amy Adams - "American Hustle"

Actress in a Supporting Role

Sally Hawkins - "Blue Jasmine" Jennifer Lawrence - "American Hustle" Lupita Nyong'o - "12 Years A Slave" Julia Roberts - "August: Osage County" June Squibb - "Nebraska"

Animated Feature Film

"The Croods" "Despicable Me 2" "Frozen" "The Wind Rises" "Ernest & Celestine"

Cinematography

"The Grandmaster" "Gravity" "Inside Llewyn Davis" "Nebraska" "Prisoners"

Costume Design

"American Hustle" "The Grandmaster" "The Great Gatsby" "The Invisible Woman" "12 Years a Slave"

Directing

Alfonso Cuaron - "Gravity" Steve McQueen - "12 Years A Slave" Alexander Payne - "Nebraska" David O. Russell - "American Hustle" Martin Scorsese - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Documentary (Feature)

"The Act of Killing" "20 Feet from Stardom" "Cutie and the Boxer" "Dirty Wars" "The Square"

Documentary (Short Subject)

"CaveDigger" "Facing Fear" "Karama Has No Walls" "The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life" "Prison Terminal: The Last Days of Private Jack Hall"

Film Editing

"American Hustle" "Captain Phillips" "Dallas Buyers Club" "Gravity" "12 Years a Slave"

Foreign Language Film

"The Broken Circle Breakdown" - Belgium "The Great Beauty" - Italy "The Hunt" - Denmark "The Missing Picture" - Cambodia "Omar" - Palestine

Makeup and hairstyling

"Dallas Buyers Club" "Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa" "The Lone Ranger"

Music (Original Score)

"The Book Thief" - John Williams "Gravity" Steven Price "Her" - William Butler and Owen Pallett "Philomena" - Alexandre Desplat "Saving Mr. Banks" - Thomas Newman

Music (Original Song)

"Let it Go" - "Frozen" - Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez "Ordinary Love" - "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" - U2, lyrics by Paul Hewson, aka Bono "Happy" - "Despicable Me 2" - Pharrell Williams "Alone Yet Not Alone" - "Alone Yet Not Alone" - music by Bruce Broughton, lyrics by Dennis Spiegel "The Moon Song" - "Her" - music by Karen O, lyrics by Karen O and Spike Jonze

Production design

"American Hustle" "Gravity" "The Great Gatsby" "Her" "12 Years a Slave"

Short Film (Animated)

"Feral" "Get a Horse!" "Mr. Hublot" "Possessions" "Room on the Broom"

Short Film (Live Action)

"Aquel No Era Yo (That Wasn't Me)" "Avant Que De Tout Perdre (Just before Losing Everything)" "Helium" "Pitaako Mun Kaikki Hoitaa? (Do I Have to Take Care of Everything?)" "The Voorman Problem"

Sound Editing:

"All Is Lost" "Captain Phillips" "Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Lone Survivor"

Sound Mixing:

"Captain Phillips" "Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Inside Llewyn Davis" "Lone Survivor"

Visual Effects

"Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Iron Man 3" "The Lone Ranger" "Star Trek Into Darkness"

Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

"Before Midnight" - Richard Linklater, Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke "Captain Phillips" - Billy Ray "Philomena" - Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope "12 Years A Slave" - John Ridley "The Wolf of Wall Street" - Terence Winter

Writing (Original Screenplay)

"American Hustle" - Eric Warren Singer and David O. Russell "Blue Jasmine" - Woody Allen "Her" - Spike Jonze "Nebraska" - Bob Nelson "Dallas Buyers Club" - Craig Borten and Melisa Wallack

Movie Date: 'Son of God' and 'Non-Stop' Feb 28, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast looks at the newest attempt to put the life of Jesus Christ on film, in "Son of God." The movie takes content from a ten-hour History Channel miniseries, produced by Mark Burnett (of "Survivor" fame). Does it work as a feature film? Is it a successful proseltyzing tool? Kristen and Rafer also review "Non-Stop," the newest Liam Neeson-led action flick, which asks listeners to "listen very carefully," and maybe shows you how to smoke in an airplane toilet. All that, plus a love letter to Rafer and some biblical movie trivia!

Movie Date: 'Three Days to Kill,' 'Pompeii,' 'In Secret' Feb 21, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen discuss how, if they were in a Hollywood blockbuster, they'd most want to be killed. The options: volcano ('Pompeii'), middle aged assassin ('Three Days to Kill'), or sinister lovers ('In Secret'). Rafer and Kristen also discuss the controversy around this year's Oscar nominees for best original song. And, as always, there's trivia!

A note about this podcast: Rafer and Kristen want to make clear that any laughter about albinism in this podcast is directed at Hollywood, which repeatedly portrays people with albinism as villains (while casting people without albinism in those roles).

Movie Date: 'Endless Love,' 'Robocop,' 'About Last Night,' 'Winter's Tale' Feb 14, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, the 1980s are back in full force, as Kristen and Rafer review three remakes of 80s movies and one adaptation of an 80s novel. On the chopping block: 'Endless Love' (based on 1981's 'Endless Love'), 'Robocop' (based on 1987's 'Robocop'), 'About Last Night' (based on 1986's 'About Last Night...'), and 'Winter's Tale' (based on the 1983 novel 'Winter's Tale'). Also, Rafer and Kristen offer some Movie Therapy to a listener who wants some Valentine's Day films that aren't sickeningly sweet. So cozy up, and grab your chocolate, because there won't be any sugar in this week's Movie Date podcast!

Movie Date: 'Lego Movie,' 'Monuments Men,' Woody Allen, Remembering Philip Seymour Hoffman Feb 06, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast includes some heavy matters as well as some livelier ones. On the heavy side, Rafer and Kristen give a recap on the recent Woody Allen / Dylan Farrow drama (warning: if you're looking for them to come down on one side or the other, you're going to be disappointed). They also remember the brilliant actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, with the help of Hoffman's friend and former high school English teacher, John Baynes, of Fairport High School in Rochester, NY. On the livelier side, they review the star-packed WWII film, "Monuments Men," and the animated action adventure, "The Lego Movie." And, as usual, there's also listener mail and trivia.

Movie Date: 'That Awkward Moment' and 'Labor Day' Feb 05, 2014

This week's Movie Date podcast is going up a few days late, as Rafer and Kristen have been on vacation. Thanks for your patience! And now, with no further ado, reviews of the suspense/romance "Labor Day," starring Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin; and the bromance/chick flick "That Awkward Moment," starring Zac Efron, Michael B. Jordan, and Miles Teller.

Movie Date: "I, Frankenstein," Sundance Film Festival, Movie Therapy, Corrections Jan 24, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen try to squeeze as much as they can into half an hour. They begin with a review of the sci-fi semi-religious adventure movie, "I, Frankenstein." Starring Aaron Eckhart and Bill Nighy, it's written and directed by Stuart Beattie. Next, the great film critic Anne Thompson gives Movie Daters a dispatch from the Sundance Film Festival. When she's not rubbing elbows with Robert Redford, Thompson writes the Thompson on Hollywood blog at Indiewire. And then it's time to get onto the Movie Therapy couch, as Rafer and Kristen try to help a listener make the most of those months between her proposal and wedding. Next, there's a major correction to make. And finally, as always, Rafer and Kristen end with trivia. Phew! Buckle up because it's that kind of date.

Movie Date: 'Ride Along,' 'The Nut Job,' 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit' & Oscar Nods Jan 17, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen recount their encounters with wildlife in the city and ponder the ways that dance-offs are better than shoot-outs. It's all in honor of the animated feature, "The Nut Job," the buddy cop comedy, "Ride Along," and the spy thriller, "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit." Rafer and Kristen also weigh in on the Oscar nominations, which were announced this Thursday. And there's a big trivia-related mea culpa as well!

THE FULL LIST OF ACADEMY AWARD NOMINEES

Best Picture

"12 Years A Slave" "American Hustle" "Dallas Buyers Club" "Her" "Nebraska" "Captain Phillips" "The Wolf of Wall Street" "Gravity" "Philomena"

Actor in a Leading Role

Bruce Dern - "Nebraska" Chiwetel Ejiofor - "12 Years A Slave" Matthew McConaughey - "Dallas Buyers Club" Christian Bale - "American Hustle" Leonardo DiCaprio - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Actor in a Supporting Role

Barkhad Abdi - "Captain Phillips" Michael Fassbender - "12 Years A Slave" Jared Leto - "Dallas Buyers Club" Bradley Cooper - "American Hustle" Jonah Hill - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Actress in a Leading Role

Cate Blanchett - "Blue Jasmine" Sandra Bullock - "Gravity" Judi Dench - "Philomena" Meryl Streep - "August: Osage County" Amy Adams - "American Hustle"

Actress in a Supporting Role

Sally Hawkins - "Blue Jasmine" Jennifer Lawrence - "American Hustle" Lupita Nyong'o - "12 Years A Slave" Julia Roberts - "August: Osage County" June Squibb - "Nebraska"

Animated Feature Film

"The Croods" "Despicable Me 2" "Frozen" "The Wind Rises" "Ernest & Celestine"

Cinematography

"The Grandmaster" "Gravity" "Inside Llewyn Davis" "Nebraska" "Prisoners"

Costume Design

"American Hustle" "The Grandmaster" "The Great Gatsby" "The Invisible Woman" "12 Years a Slave"

Directing

Alfonso Cuaron - "Gravity" Steve McQueen - "12 Years A Slave" Alexander Payne - "Nebraska" David O. Russell - "American Hustle" Martin Scorsese - "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Documentary (Feature)

"The Act of Killing" "20 Feet from Stardom" "Cutie and the Boxer" "Dirty Wars" "The Square"

Documentary (Short Subject)

"CaveDigger" "Facing Fear" "Karama Has No Walls" "The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life" "Prison Terminal: The Last Days of Private Jack Hall"

Film Editing

"American Hustle" "Captain Phillips" "Dallas Buyers Club" "Gravity" "12 Years a Slave"

Foreign Language Film

"The Broken Circle Breakdown" - Belgium "The Great Beauty" - Italy "The Hunt" - Denmark "The Missing Picture" - Cambodia "Omar" - Palestine

Makeup and hairstyling

"Dallas Buyers Club" "Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa" "The Lone Ranger"

Music (Original Score)

"The Book Thief" - John Williams "Gravity" Steven Price "Her" - William Butler and Owen Pallett "Philomena" - Alexandre Desplat "Saving Mr. Banks" - Thomas Newman

Music (Original Song)

"Let it Go" - "Frozen" - Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez "Ordinary Love" - "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" - U2, lyrics by Paul Hewson, aka Bono "Happy" - "Despicable Me 2" - Pharrell Williams "Alone Yet Not Alone" - "Alone Yet Not Alone" - music by Bruce Broughton, lyrics by Dennis Spiegel "The Moon Song" - "Her" - music by Karen O, lyrics by Karen O and Spike Jonze

Production design

"American Hustle" "Gravity" "The Great Gatsby" "Her" "12 Years a Slave"

Short Film (Animated)

"Feral" "Get a Horse!" "Mr. Hublot" "Possessions" "Room on the Broom"

Short Film (Live Action)

"Aquel No Era Yo (That Wasn't Me)" "Avant Que De Tout Perdre (Just before Losing Everything)" "Helium" "Pitaako Mun Kaikki Hoitaa? (Do I Have to Take Care of Everything?)" "The Voorman Problem"

Sound Editing:

"All Is Lost" "Captain Phillips" "Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Lone Survivor"

Sound Mixing:

"Captain Phillips" "Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Inside Llewyn Davis" "Lone Survivor"

Visual Effects

"Gravity" "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" "Iron Man 3" "The Lone Ranger" "Star Trek Into Darkness"

Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

"Before Midnight" - Richard Linklater, Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke "Captain Phillips" - Billy Ray "Philomena" - Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope "12 Years A Slave" - John Ridley "The Wolf of Wall Street" - Terence Winter

Writing (Original Screenplay)

"American Hustle" - Eric Warren Singer and David O. Russell "Blue Jasmine" - Woody Allen "Her" - Spike Jonze "Nebraska" - Bob Nelson "Dallas Buyers Club" - Craig Borten and Melisa Wallack

Movie Date: "Hercules" and Golden Globe Predictions Jan 10, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review the new Renny Harlin action flick, "The Legend of Hercules," starring Kellan Lutz. They also give their predictions for the major film categories of this weekend's Golden Globes (Sunday, January 12). And, bonus: this week's trivia winner gets a very special prize!

THE FULL LIST OF GOLDEN GLOBE FILM NOMINEES

Best Motion Picture - Drama

"12 Years A Slave" "Captain Phillips" "Gravity" "Philomena" "Rush"

Best Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

"American Hustle" "Her" "Inside Llewyn Davis" "Nebraska" "The Wolf of Wall Street"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama

Cate Blanchett - "Blue Jasmine" Sandra Bullock - "Gravity" Judi Dench - "Philomena" Emma Thompson - "Saving Mr. Banks" Kate Winslet - "Labor Day"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama

Chiwetel Ejiofor - "12 years a Slave" Idris Elba - "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" Tom Hanks - "Captain Phillips" Matthew McConaughey - "Dallas Buyers Club" Robert Redford - "All is Lost"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

Amy Adams - "American Hustle" Julie Delpy - "Before Midnight" Greta Gerwig - "Frances Ha" Julia Louis-Dreyfus - "Enough Said" Meryl Streep - "August: Osage County"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical

Christian Bale - "American Hustle" Bruce Dern - "Nebraska" Leonardo DiCaprio - "The Wolf of Wall Street" Oscar Isaac - "Inside Llewyn Davis" Joaquin Phoenix - "Her"

Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Sally Hawkins - "Blue Jasmine" Jennifer Lawrence - "American Hustle" Lupita Nyong'o - "12 Years A Slave" Julia Roberts - "August: Osage County" June Squibb - "Nebraska"

Best Performance by an Actor In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Barkhad Abdi - "Captain Phillips" Daniel Bruhl - "Rush" Bradley Cooper - "American Hustle" Michael Fassbender - "12 Years A Slave" Jared Leto - "Dallas Buyers Club"

Best Director - Motion Picture

Alfonso Cuaron - "Gravity" Paul Greengrass - "Captain Phillips" Steve McQueen - "12 Years A Slave" Alexander Payne - "Nebraska" David O. Russell - "American Hustle"

Best Screenplay - Motion Picture

Spike Jonze - "Her" Bob Nelson - "Nebraska" Jeff Pope Steve - "Philomena" John Ridley - "12 Years a Slave" David O. Russell - "American Hustle"

Best Original Score - Motion Picture

"All Is Lost" "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" "Gravity" "The Book Thief" "12 Years a Slave"

Best Original Song - Motion Picture

"Atlas" - "The Hunger Games" - Chris Martin "Let it Go" - "Frozen" "Ordinary Love" - "Mandella" - U2 "Please Mr Kennedy" - "Inside" - Ed Rush, T-Bone, Justin Timberlake, Joel and Ethan Coen "Sweeter Than Fiction" - "One Chance" - Taylor Swift

Best Animated Feature Film

"The Croods" "Despicable Me 2" "Frozen"

Best Foreign Language Film

"Blue Is The Warmest Color" (France) "The Great Beauty" (Italy) "The Hunt" (Denmark) "The Past" (Iran) "The Wind Rises" (Japan)

Movie Date: Listener Mail Bag Jan 03, 2014

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen answer a few of the many listener letters they've recently received. Along the way, they try to lend some movie therapy and (hooray!) end up on a surprise speed date. Bonus: Rafer and Kristen have some big announcements to make. Among them: a recent smackdown with the Game Night Guys and an upcoming singles movie mixer at WNYC.

Movie Date: 'Wolf of Wall Street,' 'Walter Mitty,' 'Invisible Woman,' and Much More! Dec 24, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review seven of the big movies being released on Christmas Day 2013. The films touch on everyone's favorite holiday topics, including family fights, financial corruption, elder abuse, war, extramarital affairs, lay-offs, and samurais. So pour yourself a cup of eggnog, and hear what Rafer and Kristen have to say about: "Lone Survivor," "August: Osage County," "Invisible Woman," "47 Ronin," "Wolf of Wall Street," "Grudge Match," and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty."

Movie Date: 'Her,' 'Anchorman 2,' 'American Hustle' Dec 20, 2013

This week's Movie Date podcast has Rafer wishing he knew how to do the hustle and Kristen questioning whether computers will eventually try to have sex with us all. On the chopping block: the star-packed heist film by David O. Russell, "American Hustle"; the long-awaited next chapter in the Ron Burgundy saga, "Anchorman 2"; and the Spike Jonze artificial intelligence romance, "Her." To help separate fact and fiction in "Her," Kristen and Rafer are joined by a very special guest. Gary Marcus is an artificial intelligence expert and NYU professor, and, as he sees it, we could be only a few years away from living the plot of "Her."

Movie Date: 'The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,' 'Saving Mister Banks,' Golden Globe Nods Dec 13, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look back on their own magical childhood memories as they review the making-of-"Mary Poppins" movie, "Saving Mister Banks" and the second installment in "The Hobbit" trilogy, "The Desolation of Smaug." They also consider whether the Golden Globe Award nominations make any sense whatsoever, and help a listener who needs advice on how to make holiday travel a little less torturous.

Movie Date: 'Inside Llewyn Davis,' 'Out of the Furnace,' 'Sound of Music Live' Dec 06, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at the intersections of music and film in three new releases: "Inside Llewyn Davis," the Coen brothers' film about a 1960s folk singer trying to make it big; "Out of the Furnace," starring Woody Harrelson, Christian Bale, and Casey Affleck; and "Sound of Music Live," the live television staging of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical made famous by Julie Andrews.

They also embark on some movie therapy with a listener who wants help with tracking down quality lesbian-themed films. And, as always, there's movie trivia.

Movie Date: "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," "Oldboy," "Black Nativity," "Homefront," "Frozen," and an interview with Josh Gad Nov 27, 2013

The Thanksgiving movie rush is upon us and The Movie Date team is here to tell you what to see and what to skip this holiday weekend. On this special Wednesday version of the podcast, Kristen Meinzer and Rafer Guzman review "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," "Black Nativity," "Old Boy", "Homefront," and "Frozen."

Idris Elba plays Nelson Mandela in the biopic "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom." The movie chronicles Mandela's life leading up to his inauguration as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. Naomie Harris plays politician and Mandela's wife, Winnie Mandela.

Spike Lee's "Oldboy," is a conspiracy thriller starring Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen, and Samuel L. Jackson. The film is based on Garon Tsuchiya and Nobuaki Minegishi's manga novel of the same name which was released in 2003.

"Black Nativity," is based on the libretto by Langston Hughes and stars Forest Whitaker, Angela Basset, Jennifer Hudson, and Jacob Latimore.

Action and crime abound in "Homefront," starring James Franco, Jason Stathom, and Winona Ryder. The movie is Sylvester Stallone's adaption of the novel by Chuck Logan.

Finally, "Frozen," the new animated Disney movie, tells the tale of one girl's journey to find her sister and save her kingdom from a never ending winter. Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad, and Jonathan Groff star in this family friendly adventure.

And as an added bonus, Kristen interviews Josh Gad who plays the lovable snowman Olaf in "Frozen."

Think you know movies? Take our Thanksgiving Movie Trivia Quiz below and test yourself!

Movie Date: 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,' 'Delivery Man,' and 'Christmas Candle' Nov 23, 2013

A Dystopia, many estranged children, and a christmas miracle all hit movie theaters this weekend and Kristen Meinzer and Rafer Guzman are here to weight in. On the docket are "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," "Delivery Man," and "The Christmas Candle."

"The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson as winners of the 74th Hunger Games in the movie adaption of the second book in The Hunger Games trilogy. Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Donald Sutherland, and Stanley Tucci also reprise their roles from 2012's "The Hunger Games."

"Delivery Man" is a remake of the Canadian film "Starbuck" about a man, played by Vince Vaughn, who discovers that through an anonymous sperm donation twenty years ago, he fathered 533 children. The cast includes Chris Pratt and Cobie Smulders.

Finally, "The Christmas Candle" is a film adaption of the Christmas novel written by Max Lucado. It stars Hans Matheson, Samantha Barks, Lesley Manville, and in her film debut, Britain's Got Talent's Susan Boyle. The film is produced by Rick Santorum.

They also answer listener mail in response to last week's review of "The Best Man Holiday" and offer some Movie Therapy to a listener who bemoans the lack of female action heroes.

Movie Date: 'Nebraska,' 'Best Man Holiday,' Angry Listener Mail, and Movie Therapy Nov 15, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review an Oscar contender and a holiday popcorn flick.

"Nebraska" is the latest from Alexander Payne, who is best known for “About Schmidt,” “Sideways” and “The Descendants." His new movie, starring Bruce Dern, is about a father-son trip to rural Nebraska.

And "The Best Man Holiday" is the sequel to the 1999 African-American romantic comedy, “The Best Man.” It revisits the same group of old college friends now that they’re well into adulthood.

In addition to reviewing the new releases, Rafer and Kristen respond to some angry listener mail and help a listener in Canada who's in bad need of Movie Therapy.

As always, if you like what we do, review and rate us on iTunes!

Movie Date: 'Thor: The Dark World,' 'The Book Thief, 'Dallas Buyers Club' Nov 08, 2013

Kristen Meinzer and Rafer Guzman take on superheroes and mere mortals as they review "Thor: The Dark World," "The Book Thief," and "Dallas Buyers Club."

"Thor: The Dark World," marks the return of Chris Hemsworth as the Mighty Avenger in the sequel to 2011's "Thor." Directed by Alan Taylor, the film's cast includes Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, and Christopher Eccleston.

Geoffrey Rush and Sophie Nélisse star in "The Book Thief." Based on the New York Times bestseller by Markus Zusak, the film follows a young Jewish refugee during World War II as she seeks relief through reading and sharing books.

Finally, Matthew McConaughey stars in "Dallas Buyers Club." The biopic tells the story of Ron Woodruff who, after contracting HIV in 1986, searches for the medication he needs in other countries, and brings that medication back to the states for other people living with AIDS. Jared Leto and Jennifer Garner also star.

To wrap up, the Movie Date team dons their white coats and solves your problems in the new segment, "Movie Therapy."

As always, if you like what we do, review and rate us on iTunes!

Movie Date: 'Free Birds,' 'Ender's Game, 'About Time,' and Special Guest Mary Steenburgen Nov 01, 2013

Time travel and dystopia reign this week as Kristen Meinzer and Rafer Guzman take on "Free Birds," "Ender's Game," and "About Time." Plus, Kristen interviews Mary Steenburgen who stars as a lounge singer in the new movie "Last Vegas."

"Free Birds," tells the tale of two turkeys, voiced by Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson, who attempt to change the course of history in hopes of saving their fellow birds from their yearly Thanksgiving fate. Amy Poehler and George Takei also lend their voices to this computer-animated flick.

"Ender's Game," based on the popular 1985 science fiction novel by Orson Scott Card, follows the adventures of a boy named Ender, who is recruited along with other children to serve in the military in the not-too-distant future.

Rachel McAdams, Domhnall Gleeson, and Bill Nighy star in "About Time," Richard Curtis' new rom-com about a man who learns he can travel back in time.

Finally, Kristen chats with Mary Steenburgen who, along with Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman, Robert De Niro, and Kevin Kline, stars in the Baby Boomer bromance "Last Vegas."

And don't forget, if you like what we do, rate and review our podcast on iTunes!

Movie Date: 'The Counselor,' 'All Is Lost' and 'Blue Is The Warmest Color' Oct 25, 2013

This week, Kristen and Rafer talk thrillers, French films, and films with barely any dialogue: "The Counselor," starring Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz, and Cameron Diaz; the Robert Redford film "All Is Lost"; and finally, the French film, "Blue Is The Warmest Color."

Kristen and Rafer also take on your problems with the new Movie Date feature, called Movie Therapy. This week: a soon-to-be first-time dad seeks advice on how to handle his first few weeks at home with baby. If you have questions for Movie Therapy, ask them here, or on our Facebook page.

As always, if you like what we do, please rate and review our podcast on iTunes!

Movie Date: 'The Fifth Estate,' 'Carrie' and '12 Years a Slave' Oct 18, 2013

This week, Kristen and Rafer get serious as they talk about three new major releases: "The Fifth Estate," starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Julian Assange; the remake of "Carrie," starring Chloe Grace Moretz and Julianne Moore; and finally, Steve McQueen's film based on Solomon Northup's memoir, "12 Years a Slave."

Kristen and Rafer also launch a new Movie Date feature, called Movie Therapy, in which they help listeners with their questions and issues by prescribing movies. This week: a listener needs advice on make-out movies. If you have questions for Movie Therapy, ask them here, or on our Facebook page.

Movie Date: 'Captain Phillips' and 'Machete Kills' Oct 11, 2013

This week, Kristen and Rafer take on heroes and villains with this week's two major releases: 'Captain Phillips,' the new Tom Hanks-led film about the real hijacking of the Maersk Alabama by Somali pirates in 2009, and 'Machete Kills,' the latest Mexploitation film from Robert Rodriguez. And bonus: Kristen interviews the real Captain Richard Phillips, asking him to give his thoughts on the movie (and on Tom Hanks's interpretation of his accent). All aboard!

Movie Date: Speed Date Round 2! Oct 04, 2013

Rafer and Kristen race against the clock and review 10 movies in 10 minutes. Then, it's all about the space thriller Gravity. It's the second annual Movie Speed Date episode. Here's the list of movies:

Runner Runner A Single Shot Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 Baggage Claim Battle of the Year Linsanity Parkland Jewtopia Drinking Buddies Enough Said

Also, Rafer and Kristen have some very special announcements to make. Among them: They'll be hosting their first live event on Sunday, October 27, at the Pacific Standard Bar in Park Slope, Brooklyn. A night of bar trivia (with lots of Halloween and movie-related questions), it promises to be a lot of fun (and of course, there will be lots of prizes!). Join us at 8pm sharp if you happen to be in New York!

Movie Date: 'Thanks For Sharing,' 'Starlet,' 'Don Jon' Sep 27, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk sex, sex addiction and porn. Tell your kids to leave the room because they're reviewing 'Thanks for Sharing,' 'Starlet,' and 'Don Jon.' And yes, there are lots of adult situations, strong language, and nudity throughout.

Movie Date: 'Prisoners,' 'Rush,' 'After Tiller' Sep 20, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk crime and fast cars. They also speak with Martha Shane and Lana Wilson, the filmmakers behind a documentary about the last four late-term abortion clinics in the country. Start your engines! It's time to review "Prisoners," "Rush," and "After Tiller."

Movie Date: 'The Family,' 'Insidious 2,' 'Harry Dean Stanton,' 'Austenland' Sep 13, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at strange array of movies, including an indie documentary ("Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction"), a horror flick ("Insidious: Chapter 2"), and an aging mobster comedy ("The Family"). They also look at "Austenland" with the help of Meg Levin, one of the New York City coordinators of the Jane Austen Society of North America.

Movie Date: 'Riddick,' 'Salinger,' and Lots of Listener Mail Sep 06, 2013

In the newest Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen explore the theme of seclusion in this week's big releases: from the self-imposed recluse life of J.D. Salinger (in the new documentary "Salinger") to the lonely survivalist life of Vin Diesel's character (in "Riddick"). Rafer and Kristen also share their own strange memories of being all alone, and read through a large pile of listener mail.

Movie Date: 'Closed Circuit,' 'Our Nixon,' 'The Grandmaster,' 'One Direction: This is Us,' and Special Guest Morgan Spurlock Aug 29, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen wonder if anyone trusts the government anymore, and consider whether beauty is enough to make up for a lack of substance. They also sit down with director Morgan Spurlock to discuss his newest and very surprising film project. It's all in honor of "Closed Circuit," "Our Nixon," "The Grandmaster," and "One Direction: This is Us."

Listen to Morgan Spurlock talk about his new film here.

Movie Date: 'The World's End,' 'You're Next,' 'The Spectacular Now' Aug 22, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Kristen and Rafer review movies that are about drinking...or that might be best watched while drunk. They include: "The World's End," which is about an alcoholic embarking on a 12-pub crawl gone wrong; "The Spectacular Now," which is about an alcoholic embarking on a romance gone wrong; and "You're Next," which is about a a bunch of rich people at a family gathering gone wrong. Also, Kristen and Rafer take a few minutes to complain about the current state of movie etiquette.

Movie Date: 'The Butler,' 'Jobs,' 'Paranoia,' 'From One Second to the Next,' 'Kickass 2' Aug 16, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen give five movies the Bechdel Test. Will any of them pass? On the chopping block are two biopics ("Lee Daniels' The Butler" and "Jobs"), one suspense thriller ("Paranoia"), Werner Herzog's documentary short about texting and driving ("From One Second to the Next"), and the comic book sequel that swears like a sailor ("Kickass 2").

Movie Date: 'Planes,' 'Percy Jackson,' 'We're the Millers,' 'Lovelace,' 'Elysium' Aug 09, 2013

This week's Movie Date podcast features a wide range of movies that have Rafer and Kristen asking: When should a movie go direct to video? Is a Harry Potter ripoff ever as good as Harry Potter? How much nuance can an audience handle? Are fifty allegories too many? And is incest humor ever actually funny? On the chopping block: "Planes," "Percy Jackson," "We're the Millers," "Lovelace," and "Elysium."

Movie Date: "The Canyons" and "Two Guns" Aug 02, 2013

This week, Kristen wonders if the creators of "Two Guns" have difficulty counting, Rafer wonders if the creators of "The Canyons" have difficulty accepting that it's no longer 1983, Kristen has questions about porn, and Rafer feels the need to defend Lindsay Lohan's acting. It's all in honor of the highly anticipated new Bret Easton Ellis/Paul Schrader film, "The Canyons" (featuring porn star James Deen) and the new Mark Wahlberg/Denzel Washington action comedy, "Two Guns."

Movie Date: 'The To-Do List,' 'Wolverine,' 'Fruitvale Station,' 'Blue Jasmine' Jul 26, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen tackle a strange, intense, and in some cases disappointing variety of movies, from the teen sex comedy, "The To-Do List" to the latest Woody Allen offering, "Blue Jasmine," and in between, the comic book action flick "Wolverine" and the biopic based on a tragic true event, "Fruitvale Station." They also answer voicemail, from one listener who's frustrated and another who sounds genuinely concerned.

Movie Date: 'Act of Killing,' 'The Conjuring,' 'RIPD,' 'Red 2,' 'Turbo' Jul 20, 2013

In this week's supersized Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen face what might be the worst opening weekend all summer. On the chopping block: "The Conjuring," "RIPD," "Red 2," and "Turbo."

But it's not all bad. They also sit down with Joshua Oppenheimer, director of the critically acclaimed new documentary, "The Act of Killing." Read the summary below to get a taste of how truly groundbreaking the film is.

When the military overthrew the Indonesian government in 1965, Anwar Congo and his gangster friends were enlisted to help kill one million alleged communists, intellectuals, and ethnic Chinese. Today, he is celebrated by the nation as a right-wing paramilitary hero, and he revels in his memories of violently killing people. In “The Act of Killing,” Anwar and his friends are offered the chance to relive their glory days with the death squads on film, in the form of their favorite Hollywood genres (western, gangster, musical) -- an opportunity they jump at. But as they write and perform their scenes, Anwar comes to see that he might not be the hero he’d always imagined himself to be.

Movie Date: "Pacific Rim" and "Grown Ups 2" Jul 12, 2013

Things you'll learn in this week's Movie Date podcast:

Taylor Lautner in "Grown Ups 2" may be the best Taylor Lautner you ever see. "Pacific Rim" is not a porno. Rafer and Kristen do not have a future career in singing.

Movie Date: 'The Lone Ranger,' 'Despicable Me 2,' 'Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain' Jul 04, 2013

When's the last time Johnny Depp played an average, regular guy? What exactly are those yellow egg-shaped things in the "Despicable Me" movies? And does Kevin Hart really need to explain anything? These and other questions are explored in the newest Movie Date podcast, as Rafer and Kristen review "The Lone Ranger," "Despicable Me 2," and "Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain." To help them with "The Lone Ranger," and specifically with the depiction of Tonto, they're joined by Rick Chavolla, Education and Development Officer at the American Indian Community House in New York.

Movie Date: 'The Heat,' 'White House Down,' '20 Feet From Stardom' Jun 27, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer wonders if "White House Down" might be the exact same movie as "Olympus Has Fallen," Kristen tries to fake out Rafer with her feelings about "The Heat," Rafer talks about the most spine-tingling moment in "20 Feet From Stardom," and both imagine themselves as the lead characters in "Turner and Hooch."

Movie Date: 'World War Z' and 'Monsters University' Jun 21, 2013

This week, Rafer and Kristen look at two monster movies, one of which deals with the training and coming of age of monsters ("Monsters University") and one which deals with their apocalyptic rise ("World War Z"). To help Kristen and Rafer better understand the latter, they're joined by Scott Gordon, a recent honors graduate of Adelphi University whose bachelor's thesis was entitled, "Revolution of the Dead: The New Zombie Apocalypse."

Movie Date: 'Man of Steel,' 'This is the End,' and 'The Bling Ring' Jun 14, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk about the dark side of Superman, the bright side of the apocalypse, and the inside of Paris Hilton's closet. It's all in honor of "Man of Steel," "This is the End," and "The Bling Ring."

Movie Date: "The Internship," "The Purge," "Much Ado About Nothing" Jun 07, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review the new Owen Wilson - Vince Vaughn comedy, "The Internship," and look back at their own experiences as adult interns. They also review "The Purge" (which Kristen was surprised to discover, is not about bulimia) and Joss Whedon's take on the Shakespeare classic, "Much Ado About Nothing."

Movie Date: 'After Earth,' 'Now You See Me,' 'We Steal Secrets' Jun 01, 2013

In this very special episode of Movie Date, Rafer raps a full song that he composed himself, Kristen reveals some secrets about her childhood, and both of them issue a public apology for a spoiler alert that didn't go far enough. And, of course, they talk about some movies, as well. On the chopping block: "After Earth," "Now You See Me," and "We Steal Secrets."

Movie Date: 'Hangover 3,' 'Fast & Furious 6,' 'The English Teacher,' 'Frances Ha' May 24, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review two big releases with seemingly never-ending sequels: "The Hangover 3" and "Fast and Furious 6." They also climb into the backseat for a couple of female-led quickies: "Frances Ha" and "The English Teacher." Tune in to find out which satisfies better: the quickies or the big boys.

Movie Date: Star Trek Into Darkness May 17, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer explains to Kristen what red shirts signify in the Star Trek universe, Kristen confesses to having a crush on a certain Star Trek character, and their special guest, Scott Rosenberg, reveals which Enterprise crew member he'd most like to see headlining a spin-off series. It's all in honor of the highly anticipated "Star Trek Into Darkness."

Warning 1: There are spoilers in this podcast.

Warning 2: Rafer and Kristen sing (badly) in this podcast.

Warning 3: Scott Rosenberg, Entertainment Editor for A.M. New York is the special guest, and he knows a lot more about Star Trek than either Rafer or Kristen.

Movie Date: 'Peeples' and 'The Great Gatsby' May 11, 2013

Is "The Great Gatsby" great? It's been the question on movie enthusiasts' minds for the past several months. Rafer and Kristen weigh in on the Leonardo Di Caprio-led movie, share their knowledge of the book, and compare the film to prior adaptations. They also weigh in on another Long Island movie about class differences hitting theatres this week: "Peeples," starring Kerry Washington and Craig Robinson.

Movie Date: 'The Reluctant Fundamentalist' and 'Iron Man 3' May 03, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen discuss Gwyneth Paltrow's abs, Kate Hudson's divisive acting skills, action sequences that make Kristen clap, and the best terrorism-themed movies for making out during. It's all in honor of this week's two terrorism-themed films: "The Reluctant Fundamentalist" and "Iron Man 3."

Movie Date: 'Pain and Gain,' 'The Big Wedding' Apr 26, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk about why we should all aspire to the motto, "do be a doer," as opposed to "don't be a don'ter." They also discuss middle-aged sex, wedding hook-ups, and Chef Boyardee. Special guest Cate Contino Cowit gives her insights as well. It's all in honor of the new action-crime-comedy, "Pain and Gain" starring Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and Anthony Mackie; and the romantic comedy, "The Big Wedding," starring Robert De Niro, Susan Sarandon, Diane Keaton, Amanda Seyfried, Robin Williams, and Topher Grace.

Movie Date: 'The Company You Keep' and 'Oblivion' Apr 22, 2013

This week's Movie Date podcast is arriving a few days late, as Kristen was dedicating all of last week's working hours to covering the news in Boston. But it's still packed with Rafer and Kristen freshness! On the chopping block: "The Company You Keep," a thriller about what happens when radical terrorists hit middle age; and "Oblivion," a sci-fi adventure about what happens when Tom Cruise refuses to mature beyond his "Top Gun" years. Thanks for your patience, Movie Daters!

Movie Date: '42' and 'The Place Beyond the Pines' Apr 12, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen debate whether the new movie "42" is the story of Jackie Robinson, the story of the integration of baseball, or another story all together. They also discuss the new film, "The Place Beyond the Pines," which stars Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes, and Bradley Cooper as a bunch of sad people living extremely sad lives. Guess which one made Kristen cry? And guess which one helped Rafer teach his son an important lesson?

Movie Date: 'Evil Dead,' 'Jurassic Park 3D,' 'No Place on Earth' Apr 05, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen look at three very different stories of survival, one of which is a reboot ("Jurassic Park 3D"), one of which is a remake ("Evil Dead"), and one of which is a serious documentary ("No Place on Earth"). Warning: there are references to extremely graphic horror movie content in this podcast.

Movie Date: 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' and 'The Host' Apr 01, 2013

This week's Movie Date podcast explores the complexities of "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," the cultural implications of "The Host," the role of geometry in romantic entanglements, and the race of ninjas in ancient Japan. Along the way, Rafer and Kristen ask: What the hell is going on at this moment on screen? Is that a good guy or bad guy? And can I make out during this film?

Delayed by two days due to a nasty cold on Kristen's part, the podcast features lots of coughing and nose-blowing. Apologies to all for the phlegm and thanks for your patience!

Movie Date: 'Olympus Has Fallen,' 'Admission,' 'The Croods' Mar 22, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer points out a certain animated character's skimpy clothing, Kristen admits to more than Rafer can handle, and both of them sing the praises of Olivia Newton-John. It's all in honor of this weekend's big releases: "Admission," "The Croods," and "Olympus Has Fallen."

Movie Date: 'The Call,' 'Burt Wonderstone,' 'Ginger and Rosa,' 'Spring Breakers' Mar 15, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer confesses to being a magic nerd, Kristen talks about girl-on-girl action, Rafer admits to liking big beds, and Kristen uses some barnyard language. It's all in honor of "The Call," "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone," "Ginger and Rosa," and "Spring Breakers."

Movie Date: 'Oz the Great and Powerful,' 'Dead Man Down,' 'Emperor' Mar 11, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Dead Man Down," "Emperor," and "Oz: The Great and Powerful." Along the way, they contemplate the power of Tyler Perry, the scariness of The Incredible Hulk, and the style choices of Joan Crawford. A warning: this week's trivia question refers to a certain college past time involving marijuana, "The Wizard of Oz," and Pink Floyd.

Movie Date: '21 and Over,' 'Jack the Giant Slayer,' 'Phantom' Mar 01, 2013

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen are joined by Jeff Yang, who writes the Wall Street Journal's Tao Jones column. Jeff shares his thoughts on the new movie, "21 and Over" - from its depiction of race, to whether it's just a cheap mash-up of "Weekend at Bernie's" and "The Hangover." Along the way, Rafer admits he doesn't remember his twenty first birthday, Kristen falls asleep, and Jeff clarifies that he's not really Jackie Chan (even though he wrote a book called, "I Am Jackie Chan"). Other films discussed in this podcast include the Cold War thriller, "Phantom" and the fairy tale reboot "Jack the Giant Slayer."

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected