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What if one of the most iconic events in history was all part of a grand marketing scheme? This episode of Natey & Katy: At the Movies takes you behind the scenes of the surprise screening of "Fly Me to the Moon," where Scarlett Johansson's character, Kelly Jones, is tasked with staging a fake moon landing. Alongside standout performances from Channing Tatum, Woody Harrelson, and Jim Rash, Natey revisits the high-stakes tension of the 1960s space race, relives the nostalgia of the era, and basks in the film's unique blend of romance, drama, and humor. 

He also reflects on the film's portrayal of a more united America and how it offered a poignant contrast to today's divided climate. The movie surpassed his expectations, earning a solid 4.5 out of 6 stars, and he was particularly thrilled by the unique experience of AMC's surprise movie releases. By the end of the episode, you'll be eager to hear the next discussion on the comic-based movie "V for Vendetta." Don't miss out on this heartwarming and reflective review that promises to leave you both entertained and thoughtful.

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What makes a film truly patriotic? Join us for a special 4th of July episode of "Natey & Katy: At the Movies," as we explore this question through the lens of some of America's most stirring cinematic tributes. From the harrowing battles of the Civil War to the revolutionary fervor of the American Revolution, we reflect on the power of film to capture the essence of historical events and the human spirit that drives them. Nathan, aka Natey, takes us back to the 1989 classic "Glory," a film that doesn't shy away from the pain and triumphs of the first all-black volunteer company led by Colonel Robert Shaw. With stars like Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman, "Glory" offers a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight for freedom. Katy brings a fresh perspective by questioning the film's emotional gravitas and its portrayal of violence, prompting a thought-provoking discussion about the importance of historical accuracy in storytelling.

Next, we shift gears to discuss "The Patriot," a film that balances emotional depth with the grit of Revolutionary War action. Mel Gibson's portrayal of a grieving father-turned-soldier and Heath Ledger's compelling performance as his son bring a raw, emotional core to this historical drama. We dive into the strategic guerrilla warfare that played a key role in America's battle for independence and Jason Isaacs' unforgettable role as the menacing British antagonist. Through heart-wrenching moments and powerful performances, "The Patriot" stands as a testament to the resilience and bravery of the human spirit. This episode is a cinematic journey through America’s history, celebrating the films that honor the nation's past with both reverence and realism. Join us and feel the patriotic fervor through the magic of movies.

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What happens when oppressive summer heat perfectly parallels the intense emotional climate of a classic film? Join us as we kick off this episode of Natey & Katy: At the Movies with a unique exploration of "Raging Bull." We share personal stories about our summer experiences and draw clever parallels between the draining heat and the movie’s theme. We dive deep into the turbulent life of boxer Jake LaMotta, played by Robert De Niro, and express our mixed feelings about the film’s lack of a redemptive arc and its overall bleak tone. However, we don’t shy away from applauding the exceptional performances, especially De Niro's commitment to his role and how it compares to the emotional rollercoaster of shows like "Mad Men."

Switching gears, we dissect the artistic choices that make "Raging Bull" a cinematic masterpiece, despite its disturbing content. The black-and-white cinematography and emotional, Godfather-esque music are compelling, yet create a stark contrast with the film's dark themes. Joe Pesci’s Oscar-nominated role and De Niro's transformative performance receive their well-deserved praise. Yet, we also voice our discomfort with the portrayal of LaMotta’s abusive behavior. As we conclude our discussion, we deliver our ratings—3 out of 6 and 4.5 out of 6—and set the stage for our next episode where we’ll tackle "V for Vendetta." Katy’s passionate sign-off promises an equally intense discussion on fear, accountability, and revolutionary change.

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Rediscover the nostalgic magic of the '90s with our special Surprise Saturday episode featuring Katy! We take a delightful trip down memory lane as we chat about "Brink," the beloved Disney Channel Original Movie, all thanks to a fan suggestion from Katy's younger brother, Nick. Join us as we discuss the heartfelt story of Andrew "Brink" Brinker - a soul skater grappling with tough decisions to support his family while staying true to his values. From the unforgettable cast, including Eric von Detten and Sam Horrigan, to cherished memories of other Disney classics like "Luck of the Irish" and "Smart House," this episode is a nostalgic treat for Disney Channel fans. Katy shares her enduring love for "Brink," while I offer a fresh perspective as a first-time viewer, marveling at its fun, cheesy charm and familiar '90s TV faces.

But the fun doesn't stop there! We also explore the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, the film's comedic yet unrealistic moments, and sprinkle in our own personal skating stories for a relatable touch. And for a stark contrast, we introduce a new review segment featuring the intense drama "Raging Bull" with Robert De Niro, showcasing our range from feel-good '90s flicks to hard-hitting classics. Stay connected with us on social media for more nostalgic reviews, and tune in to hear Katy and me sign off on another memorable episode!

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Is "Fargo" really based on true events, or did the Coen Brothers pull a fast one on us? Join Natey and Katy as they break down this classic film with a playful mix of humor and analysis. They start by donning their best Midwestern accents to set the stage for discussing Jerry Lundegaard's bumbling crimes and Frances McDormand's standout performance as Marge Gunderson, which earned her a Best Actress Oscar. They also dive into a comparison with "The Big Lebowski," noting the unique storytelling styles and unforgettable quotable lines that make both films iconic.

Their conversation doesn't shy away from the film's controversial aspects, particularly its infamous "based on true events" claim. Natey and Katy explore the ethics and effectiveness of this tactic, adding depth to their review. The discussion heats up as they talk about the film’s captivating storyline, its moments of intense violence, and the abrupt ending that leaves some viewers wanting more. From the shocking wood chipper scene to the tragic fate of the wife, no stone is left unturned. While acknowledging "Fargo" as a significant piece of cinema, their opinions vary on whether it's a must-watch. Tune in for an engaging blend of humor and thoughtful critique that promises to entertain and provoke thought.

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What if there's a secret society dedicated to making white people’s lives easier? Join Natey as he dissects the controversial film "The American Society of Magical Negroes" and the complex figure at its center, Aren. Natey explores how the movie confronts the societal pressure on African Americans to prioritize white comfort, often at their own expense. Justice Smith’s performance is a highlight, bringing a grounded nuance to an otherwise heavy-handed narrative. Though the film's magical elements may seem over the top, the real-world implications it addresses are both provocative and essential.

Moving forward, Natey dives into broader discussions about the portrayal of African Americans in cinema and the societal expectations they navigate. Aren’s powerful declaration—that his existence is not to serve white ease but to claim his own—serves as a focal point for Natey's critique. He debates whether a subtler approach could have made the film's message more impactful. Don’t miss his final rating of the movie and get ready for a lighter note on our next episode, featuring a review of the Coen brothers' comedy classic "Fargo".

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What if a movie could make you cry in public and relate deeply to a teacher-turned-fighter’s struggles? Join us as Katy and I share our raw and heartfelt reactions to "Warrior," featuring powerhouse performances by Tom Hardy, Nick Nolte, Joel Edgerton, and Jennifer Morrison. We dive into the film’s emotionally charged plot. From the strained relationships between the brothers and their father to the intense blend of fight scenes and gripping storytelling, we unpack why this movie left such a profound impact on us. Katy's candid admission of tearing up in public and my take on the relatability of the characters' journey make this discussion one you won't want to miss. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions and storytelling that both movie buffs and casual viewers will appreciate!

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What happens when a young artist gets trapped in a mystical Irish forest, stalked by menacing creatures every night? Find out on this special Surprise Saturday episode of "Natey and Katy: At the Movies" as Natey unravels the eerie tale of "The Watchers." Directed by Ishana Shyamalan, wife of the renowned M. Night Shyamalan, this film stars Dakota Fanning, Georgina Campbell, Olwen Fouéré, and Oliver Finnegan. With mysterious creatures lurking and rules to follow, the suspense is palpable. Join him as he dissects the plot, illuminates its connections to M. Night Shyamalan's signature style, and shares his candid thoughts on this chilling narrative.

Natey will compare "The Watchers" to Shyamalan's past works, especially "Lady in the Water," and discuss the elements that make it uniquely compelling. Is it a hit or a miss? His detailed, spoiler-filled review aims to give you a full picture of this haunting film. Whether you're in it for the suspense, the storyline, or just curious about how Ishana fares in the director's chair, Natey's conversation promises an engaging and insightful look at "The Watchers." Tune in and get ready for a thrilling cinematic journey!

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Ever wondered which anime main character you would be? Join Nathan (aka Natey) and our returning anime expert, Taj, as we both surprisingly find our alter ego in Goku from Dragon Ball Z! With Katy unexpectedly absent, we kick off the episode with a fun quiz and share our personal anime favorites—Pokémon for Nathan and a heartening love for ramen from Taj. This sets the stage for a nostalgic journey into the world of Studio Ghibli, beginning with an in-depth look at "My Neighbor Totoro."

Jump into our discussion where we compare the English dub and the original Japanese version of "My Neighbor Totoro," exploring how voice acting can shape our emotional experiences. We recount our personal connections to this beloved classic, highlighting its hand-drawn animation and the simple yet profound storyline that makes Ghibli films so magical. Our conversation broadens to include other Studio Ghibli favorites, with "Howl’s Moving Castle" earning a special mention for its captivating story and visuals.

Rounding out the episode, we share varied opinions on "My Neighbor Totoro," discussing its whimsical elements and the iconic status of Totoro in popular culture. While some of us appreciate the slow pace and simplicity, others find it less engaging but still visually and musically stunning. We introduce a new segment where we read fan mail and encourage listeners to send in their questions and movie suggestions. Stay tuned as we also tease our excitement for exploring an upcoming MMA-themed movie, promising a fresh and thrilling genre adventure!

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What makes a film unforgettable? In today's Surprise Saturday episode of Natey and Katy: At the Movies, Nathan, aka Natey, revisits the compelling story of "The Iron Claw." This powerful movie left a lasting impression when we first discussed it in our year-in-review episode. Now available on Max, "The Iron Claw" dives deep into the real-life saga of the Von Erich brothers, professional wrestlers who dominated the 1980s. With standout performances by Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Lily James, this film is a true testament to the strength and tragedy of a wrestling dynasty. 

Why was "The Iron Claw" the movie of the year in 2023 for us? Despite its intense subject matter, Nathan explains why this film is a masterclass in storytelling, acting, and scriptwriting. The film's emotional depth, coupled with its impeccable cast, makes it a must-watch, even if it's too heavy to revisit often. Tune in as we break down what makes this film exceptional and discuss its surprising Oscar snub. Whether you're a wrestling aficionado or a drama enthusiast, this episode will give you all the reasons to add "The Iron Claw" to your watchlist.

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