"Movie Date" from The Takeaway

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

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 19:04:34 -0400

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"

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 18:23:50 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 31 May 2013 21:07:15 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 24 May 2013 17:32:31 -0400

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

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 17 May 2013 18:10:53 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 10 May 2013 21:09:46 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 03 May 2013 18:54:29 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:09:15 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 18:10:04 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 16:25:41 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:11:52 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 20:28:52 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:12:48 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:26:16 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 14:30:43 -0400

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'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 16:49:33 -0500

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."

Movie Date Presents: Oscar...Totally Naked

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 17:31:15 -0500

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen's bickering isn't restricted to the online world. Instead, it's made available to radio listeners all over the country. It's their first hour-long special for the airwaves, and it's all in honor of Hollywood's biggest night. Ladies and gentleman, "Movie Date Presents: Oscar...Totally Naked."

And yes, Rafer and Kristen are naked throughout.

Movie Date: 'Safe Haven,' 'Beautiful Creatures,' 'A Good Day to Die Hard'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 18:46:07 -0500

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Kristen and Rafer debate whether today is, in fact, a good day to die hard, or merely a fine one. They also discuss the merits of cuddling, creamy white stationary, witchcraft, and weird sexual hang-ups. It's all in honor of this week's releases: "Safe Haven," "Beautiful Creatures," and "A Good Day to Die Hard." Warning: if you don't know what plushies are now, you might after this podcast. Also, if you haven't already, check out this very special Valentine to Rafer, on Babes of NPR.

Movie Date: 'Identity Thief,' 'Side Effects,' 'Top Gun 3D'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:13:24 -0500

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen compare notes on their favorite pharmaceutical drug names. They also ask some big questions, including: Does volleyball really need to be seen in 3D? Should Steven Soderbergh retire? And if the only good part of a date is the kissing at the end...is it really a good date? It's all in honor of this week's big releases: "Top Gun 3D," "Side Effects," and "Identity Thief."

Movie Date: 'Stand Up Guys,' 'Warm Bodies,' 'Bullet to the Head'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 20:52:46 -0500

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen play a game of "would you rather" involving racist hitmen versus zombie kidnappers. Will Rafer choose to be kidnapped? Will Kristen decide to hang out with the racist? Find out, and along the way, get their thoughts on "Stand Up Guys," "Warm Bodies," and "Bullet to the Head."

Movie Date: 'Parker,' 'Hansel and Gretel,' 'Movie 43'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 20:06:19 -0500

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer and Kristen review "Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters," and in the process, are forced to explore one of Rafer's least favorite movie themes in recent years: the sibling romance. Other movies discussed this week are "Parker," starring Jason Statham and Jennifer Lopez; and "Movie 43," starring Kate Winslet, Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Emma Stone, Kate Bosworth, Uma Thurman, and everyone else in Hollywood. Warning to the easily queasy: this podcast includes talk of fecal matter, brother-sister romance, brother-brother romance, misogyny, and menstruation.

Movie Date Award Season Dispatch: Arnold!

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:33:02 -0500

Welcome to the third Movie Date Award Season Dispatch - in which Rafer and Kristen do not talk about award season at all. Instead, they focus on the strange intersections of politics and performance. Each dispatch is taken from a live interview, led by WNYC's Amy Eddings, and broadcast during All Things Considered on WNYC.

Movie Date: 'Mama,' 'Broken City,' 'The Last Stand'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 17:07:18 -0500

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Rafer responds to one of Kristen's harshest critics - with a giant spoonful of sugar. Rafer and Kristen also give their thoughts on this week's big releases: "Mama," starring Jessica Chastain; "Broken City," starring Russell Crowe, Mark Wahlberg, and Catherine Zeta Jones, and "The Last Stand," starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Advanced warning: if you can't stand sincere soft rock, you might want to fast-forward through this week's trivia question.

Movie Date Award Season Dispatch: Golden Globes Recap

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:07:01 -0500

Welcome to the second of several Movie Date Award Season Dispatches. Each dispatch is taken from a live interview, led by WNYC's Amy Eddings, and broadcast during All Things Considered on WNYC. In this dispatch, Rafer and Kristen share their thoughts on the Golden Globes - from the hosting to the winners to that speech by Lifetime Achievement winner Jodie Foster.

Movie Date Award Season Dispatch: The Oscar Nominees!

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 17:42:23 -0500

Welcome to the first of several Movie Date Award Season Dispatches. Each dispatch is taken from a live interview, led by WNYC's Amy Eddings, and broadcast during All Things Considered on WNYC. In this dispatch, Rafer and Kristen share their thoughts on the Oscar nominees - and whether they truly represent the best pictures of the year.

Movie Date: 'Gangster Squad,' Oscar Nods, Razzie Nods, and Golden Globes

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:45:51 -0500

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen talk about whether Gangster Squad is a horrible date, or merely a tolerable one. They also share their excitement about the Oscar nominations, the Razzie nominations, and this weekend's Golden Globe Awards. Welcome to red carpet season!

Movie Date: 'On the Road,' 'The Impossible,' 'Promised Land'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:55:50 -0500

It's a new year, with lots of new complaints from Movie Date listeners. This week, Rafer and Kristen answer just a few of the many letters they've received in recent weeks (about "The Hobbit," "Les Miserables," and "Django: Unchained"). Listen to find out if you're one of the writers showcased! And while you're at it, hear how Kristen and Rafer feel about "On the Road," "The Impossible," and "Promised Land."

Happy 2013! Keep your letters coming!

Love,
Rafer and Kristen

Movie Date: 'Les Miserables' and 'Django Unchained'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 13:27:41 -0500

It's Christmas 2012, one of the most highly anticipated movie release days of the year, and Rafer and Kristen are prepared to throw down over two of the big ones: "Les Miserables" and "Django Unchained." Weighing in at nearly three hours each, both are epic in scale...but are they epic in content? Does the campy violence in Django make Rafer cheer? Does the celebrity singing in "Les Mis" move Kristen to tears? And, perhaps, most important...will Kristen be able to convince Rafer to sing on the podcast?

Movie Date: 'Zero Dark 30,' 'The Guilt Trip,' 'This is 40,' 'Jack Reacher'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 18:24:33 -0500

It's the week before Christmas, when a lot of movies hit the big screen. Of course, some of them are better than others, and Rafer and Kristen each have their favorites. On the chopping block: the new Kathryn Bigelow film about the hunt for Osama Bin Laden, "Zero Dark 30"; the mother-son road trip comedy starring Barbra Streisand and Seth Rogan "The Guilt Trip"; Judd Apatow's follow up to "Knocked Up," "This is 40"; and the movie that turns Werner Herzog into an action star "Jack Reacher."

Movie Date: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:53:53 -0500

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen review the highly anticipated "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey." Along they way, they do their best Gollum imitations, contemplate the greatness of Benny Hill's humor, and recognize the similarities between "The Hobbit" and "The Smurfs."

Movie Date: 'Playing for Keeps' and 'The Fitzgerald Family Christmas'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 13:23:38 -0500

This week, Rafer admits to being a player, Kristen admits to wanting more handcuffs in the movies, and they both mull over why every person from Europe or the past in Hollywood films speaks with a British accent. Along the way, they also give their thoughts on "Playing for Keeps" (starring Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Uma Thurman) and "The Fitzgerald Family Christmas" (starring and directed by Edward Burns).

Movie Date: 'Hitchcock'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 12:23:18 -0500

Alfred Hitchcock was an imperfect man, and the new movie "Hitchcock" puts many of those imperfections on display. From his fixations on young blondes to his work obsessions to his heavy reliance (both professionally and personally) on his wife, Alma.

But is the movie telling the whole story? Is it embellishing?

Kristen and Rafer wanted to find out, and so they decided to turn to an expert.

Peter Mascuch is associate professor of English and American studies and coordinator of the film/media studies program at St. Joseph's College in New York. He's also a Hitchcock expert.

Movie Date: 'Rise of the Guardians', 'Silver Linings Playbook', 'Life of Pi', 'Red Dawn', 'Anna Karenina

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 10:46:39 -0500

In this special hour-long Thanksgiving podcast Kristen and Rafer respond to listener mail, review five new movies, and give thanks.

'Rise of the Guardians,' a 3-D animated fantasy adventure based on William Joyce's The Guardians of Childhood book series, stars Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Hugh Jackman, Isla Fisher and Jude law. 'Silver Linings Playbook,' is an unconventional romantic comedy-drama starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. 'Life of Pi,' directed by Ang Lee, is a fantasy adventure film and is expected to be an Oscar contender. 'Red Dawn' is a remake of the 1984 film of the same name, except this time the high school guerrilla fighters are battling the North Koreans instead of the Russians. And 'Anna Karenina' is a drama adapted from Leo Tolstoy's novel of the same name. The film stars Keira Knightley and Jude Law.

Movie Date: 'Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:40:12 -0500

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen review the highly anticipated final installment of the Twilight saga. "Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2" is expected to be one of the highest grossing movies of 2012. Vampire lovers prepare to be awed in one way or another.

Movie Date: 'Skyfall,' 'Lincoln,' and 'Flight'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 14:51:27 -0500

In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen catch up after more than a week of being derailed by Hurricane Sandy. On the menu: Denzel Washington's booze-filled suspense flick "Flight," the long-awaited Daniel Day-Lewis-led "Lincoln," and "Skyfall," the new James Bond movie that has Rafer wondering if nobody does it better...and Kristen wondering if something fishy is going on with her local multiplex.

Movie Date: 'Cloud Atlas'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 11:28:48 -0400

Spanning four hundred years, and featuring an all-star cast of award-winning actors (most of whom play multiple characters), the new film "Cloud Atlas" is big, ambitious, and divisive.

Not surprisingly, Rafer Guzman and Kristen Meinzer find themselves disagreeing about whether it's any good, whether it makes any sense, and whether it's worth seeing.

Movie Date: 'Paranormal Activity 4,' 'Alex Cross'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 17:07:45 -0400

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Kristen finds one new movie comparable to "Scooby Doo" and another to be comparable to the tea cup ride at Disneyland. Meanwhile, Rafer confesses to some bad behavior at a certain movie screening, and admits that he likes Madea.

Movie Date: Dr. Demento, Waterbeds, the Ayatollah Khomeini, and 'Argo'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 17:11:03 -0400

In this week's Movie Date podcast, Kristen shares her memories of the Ayatollah Khomeini and waterbeds while Rafer reminisces about Dr. Demento and parody music. It's all in honor of the new Ben Affleck-directed movie - based on real events - "Argo." They also talk a bit about "Seven Psychopaths" and Mahatma Gandhi.

Movie Date: 'Taken 2'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:50:27 -0400

Rafer and Kristen have learned a lot from movies over the years. But it's quite possible that no movie will ever teach them more than this weekend's big release, "Taken 2," starring Liam Neeson. In this week's podcast, Rafer and Kristen go over ten of the lessons they learned from the action thriller.

Movie Date: 'Won't Back Down'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:43:06 -0400

This week, Rafer and Kristen remember their favorite teachers and their favorite teaching movies. It's all in honor of "Won't Back Down," the new movie that pits teachers against parents against student unions. To help them get a grasp of the subject matter, Rafer and Kristen are joined by Kitty Crowley, a real veteran teacher from a failing New York City public school.

Movie Date: 'Trouble with the Curve' and 'End of Watch'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 19:34:31 -0400

Kristen doesn't know much about baseball. Rafer knows even less. But they do know this: when it comes to baseball movies, even the most well-researched one won't hit a home run unless it also hits the heartstrings. Does Clint Eastwood's "Trouble With the Curve" hit those stings? Did Rafer cry when he watched it? And (most important to Kristen), dies Clint Eastwood talk to a chair in the movie?

Movie Date: 'The Innocence of Muslims,' 'The Master'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:02:36 -0400

From "The Innocence of Muslims" to "The Master," it's a big week for religion and movies, with one inciting violence overseas and another inciting audiences to ask if L. Ron Hubbard and a character named Lancaster Dodd are the same man. Rafer and Kristen discuss both films, and along the way, ask a lot of questions, express a lot of confusion, and share their favorite Scientology memories.

Movie Date: Kristen and Rafer's Fall Movie Preview

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 17:02:46 -0400

It's been a mediocre movie summer, but Rafer and Kristen are trying to look on the bright side. Fall is officially here, and with it, some pretty leaves and promising entertainment. From the story of a big-hearted butter sculptor in Iowa to the real mission of a fake movie crew during the Iran hostage crisis to an a capella chick flick smackdown, there's something for everyone.

Movie Date: 'Oogieloves,' 'The Possession,' and 'Lawless'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 15:16:10 -0400

Sometimes Rafer and Kristen hate movies. Sometimes they love movies. And sometimes they love movies in a way that other people hate them. This is one of those weeks. On the roster: 'Oogieloves,' 'The Possession,' and 'Lawless.'

Movie Date: Summer 2012 Documentary Roundup

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 18:16:42 -0400

By popular demand, Rafer and Kristen talk about their favorite documentaries of the summer. From a look at someone who's stolen 500 identities to a pair of elderly identical twin prostitutes getting by to a couple that's managed to live way beyond their means, the films are stranger than fiction in some cases...and hit awfully close to home in others.

Films discussed in this podcast include: "Imposter," "Meet the Fokkens," "Chely Wright: Wish Me Away," "Searching for Sugarman," and "The Queen of Versaillles."

Please note: Rafer and Kristen - for no reason at all - talk like phone sex operators at the beginning of this podcast. Please forgive them. You can blame "Meet the Fokkens."

Movie Date: 'Expendables 2,' 'Paranorman,' 'Sparkle'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 10:40:58 -0400

This week, Rafer finds a certain movie too stupid to enjoy, and Kristen considers the same movie not quite stupid enough. Also, is the world ready for a children's horror movie? And the Movie Date team gives their verdict on Whitney Houston's final swan song: "Sparkle."

Movie Date: 'Bourne Legacy,' 'Hope Springs,' 'The Campaign'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:42:04 -0400

In this week's Movie Date, Rafer explains why "The Bourne Legacy" has no right to use the words "Bourne" or "Legacy" in its title. Kristen does a truly horrendous imitation of Alfred Hitchcock. And Rafer and Kristen try their best to dance around the "things" that Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones do together (and by themselves) in the new romantic comedy "Hope Springs."

Movie Date is hosted by Takeaway producer Kristen Meinzer, and Rafer Guzman, film critic for Newsday.

Movie Date: 'Total Recall,' 'Diary of a Whimpy Kid: Dog Days,' and 'Vertigo' vs. 'Citizen Kane'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 09:27:39 -0400

Is "Vertigo" the greatest movie ever made? Is it better than "Citizen Kane"? Can you recall what's great about "Total Recall"? And why are Rafer and Kristen arguing about "Diary of a Whimpy Kid"?

Movie Date: 'The Watch'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 11:36:19 -0400

This week: Kristen cheats on Robert Pattinson at the Summer Games while the neighborhood watches. No, that can't be right. Rafer is an expert on Olympic events. No, that's certainly not right, either.

We're all so upset over Kristen Stewart's diss of R-Patts, we don't know what's what. All of that will get sorted out on the Date — the scandal of the century, the best Olympic movies, and the new "amiable dude-comedy," "The Watch," starring Seth Rogen, Ben Stiller, Jonah Hill, and Vince Vaughn.

Also, Kristen reveals some very personal information about a visit to Ikea.

Want to subscribe to Movie Date? It's easy on the Movie Date iTunes Page.

Movie Date: 'The Dark Knight Rises'

feedback@thetakeaway.org (Public Radio International and WNYC Radio) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 12:07:35 -0400

From plot points to conspiracy theories to the tragic shooting in Colorado, Rafer and Kristen look at "The Dark Knight Rises," and the drama that's surrounded the film.

Want to subscribe to Movie Date? It's easy on the Movie Date iTunes page.