Date Night

Phil and Claire Foster feel their once thrilling marriage has slipped into predictable routine, even as they cling to date night as a lifeline. When they snag a coveted Manhattan reservation, their attempt at a normal evening goes awry after they are mistaken for a wanted couple of thieves. The misidentity unleashes a chaotic chain of events, as a mix of mercenaries, crooked players, and vigilant cops converge on them. With every moment, the Fosters must improvise to survive through a night of mistaken identities, fast escapes, and near misses. The couple's bond and trust are tested as they fight to stay safe while keeping their relationship intact in the midst of panic. As the night spirals, they collide with a globe trotting cast of suspects, a chase through crowded streets, and awkward improvisations that reveal how well they actually know each other.

Directed by Shawn Levy and released in 2010, Date Night pairs Steve Carell and Tina Fey with a brisk, action infused comedy. Script by Josh Klausner builds on an original premise and practical stunts that suit the New York setting.

The film grossed about $152,300,000 worldwide on a $55,000,000 budget, underscoring its broad appeal and solid return for a lighthearted, mainstream comedy with action elements. It performed well internationally, proving to be a reliable option for date night audiences.

Date Night helped popularize the idea of a suburban date night spiraling into high stakes chaos, a template later echoed in several action comedy pairings. The Carell and Fey chemistry became a talking point, with action set pieces and misdirection earning laughs. Carell and Fey set a benchmark.

Critics noted the strong pairing of Carell and Fey and the movie's pacing, though some argued the plot lacks depth. The themes center on rekindling romance, breaking routine, and turning a failing date into a test of trust. The tone blends slapstick with sharp dialogue and real stakes.