The Oscar Project Podcast (Jonathan Ytreberg)
Explore every episode of The Oscar Project Podcast
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Oct 2022 | 1.9 The Patent Leather Kid: A Boxer goes to War | 00:17:37 | |
My analysis of the 1927 film The Patent Leather Kid, starring Richard Barthelmess and Molly O’Day. | |||
| 20 Jun 2023 | 1.10 Author Interview with Mia Mask | 00:27:39 | |
It's a first for The Oscar Project, an interview with an author who writes about movies. Today's guest is Mia Mask, a professor at Vassar College where she teaches African American cinema, Documentary History, and seminars on topics including horror film and auteurs like Spike Lee, Charles Burnett and Ava DuVernay. She also teaches feminist film theory, African national cinemas, and other genre courses. Her commentary can be heard on NPR and her first book Divas on Screen: Black Women in American Film was published in 2009. Today she joins me to talk about her new book Black Rodeo: A History of the African American Western.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Check out Wikipedia for more information about the Lobo Comics mentioned in the interview. | |||
| 04 Jul 2023 | 1.11 Author Interview with Charlotte Booth & Brian Billington | 00:21:43 | |
In my second author interview, I speak with guests Charlotte Booth and Brian Billington. Charlotte Booth is a professional writer of history books (including The History of the Undead, and How to Survive in Ancient Egypt), and was also an extra in a Bollywood movie. Brian Billington is an IT professional, amateur photographer, and a lover of movies who enjoys working out where those movies were filmed. Over the years they’ve created personal movie location tours including Wells, Turin and London, and decided it was time to share this with others. They join me today to talk about their collaboration, The Movie Lover’s Guide to London.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 18 Jul 2023 | 1.12 Author Interview with Suzanne Ferriss | 00:33:34 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Suzanne Ferriss whose first book about Sofia Coppola The Cinema of Sofia Coppola: Fashion, Culture, Celebrity was published in February 2021 and she edited The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sofia Coppola, which was published in early 2023. She joins me today to talk about her latest book, Lost in Translation from BFI Film Classics about Coppola’s film that celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
John Kacere on Wikipedia, inspiration for the opening shot of Lost in Translation. Video for Shawn Mendes's sons "Lost in Japan", inspired by Lost in Translation. | |||
| 01 Aug 2023 | 1.13 Author Interview with Kristen Lopez | 00:18:40 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Kristen Lopez, the film editor at The Wrap whose articles have appeared at Variety, MTV, TCM, and Roger Ebert. She joins me today to talk about her latest book, But Have You Read the Book?, a look at fantastic books that have been made into films over the last 100 years.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 15 Aug 2023 | 1.14 Author Interview with Ian Nathan | 00:30:40 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Ian Nathan, the author of Stephen King at The Movies, Ridley Scott: A Retrospective and James Cameron: A Retrospective, and biographies of The Coen Brothers, Quentin Tarantino, and Wes Anderson. He is the former editor and executive editor of Empire, the world's biggest movie magazine, and a regular contributor to newspapers, magazines, and TV. He joins me today to talk about his new book coming out September 7th, Clint Eastwood: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 29 Aug 2023 | 1.15 Author Interview with Koren Shadmi | 00:19:43 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Koren Shadmi, the author of Bionic, Rise of the Dungeon Master, Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D, and The Twilight Man: Rod Serling and the Birth of Television. He joins me today to talk about his graphic novel, Lugosi: The Rise & Fall of Hollywood’s Dracula.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Music mentioned in this episode includes: | |||
| 12 Sep 2023 | 1.16 Author Interview with Brad Weismann | 00:17:55 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Brad Weismann, an award-winning writer and journalist who has also worked as a stand-up comic and improv actor. He’s contributed to publications and websites worldwide such as Senses of Cinema, Film International, Backstage, Movie Habit, Colorado Daily and Boulder Magazine. His first book, Lost in the Dark: A World History of Horror Films, was recently published by the University of Mississippi and he contributed to the critical collection 100 Years of Soviet Cinema. He joins me today to talk about his new book, Horror Unmasked: A History of Terror from Nosferatu to Nope.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Also mentioned in this episode: | |||
| 26 Sep 2023 | 1.18 Author Interview with Nat Segaloff | 00:17:45 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Nat Segaloff is a writer, broadcaster, teacher, film historian, and raconteur with a varied background in motion picture publicity, journalism, producing, and covering up other people's mistakes. Having begun his career during the exciting transition between the old studios and the film generation of the New Hollywood, he provides both perspective and commentary on a wide range of subjects, many of them having to do with movies. He joins me today to talk about his upcoming book, Say Hello to My Little Friend: A Century of Scarface.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Also mentioned in this episode: | |||
| 18 Sep 2023 | 1.17 The Racket: Cops vs. Robbers | 00:09:06 | |
Regular episodes of The Oscar Project are back and this week I'm discussing the 1928 film The Racket. This story is adapted from a play of the same name and was considered one of the most important cop/gangster films of the time when it was released. Listen now to learn about the threats made against the creators and as always, my own thoughts about the film. | |||
| 24 Mar 2024 | 2.13-The Crowd-Love, Happiness, and Family Struggles | 00:14:22 | |
As I announced in my spring preview episode earlier this week, today I am discussing the 1928 film The Crowd. The film focuses on the story of John and Mary Sims as they build a family together and face life's challenges in early 1900s New York City. Listen now to hear about the creative people behind the film, and as always, my own thoughts about the film. | |||
| 10 Oct 2023 | 1.19 Author Interview with Andrew DeGraff | 00:19:19 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Andrew DeGraff, a freelance illustrator and artist living and working in Maine. He graduated from Pratt Institute’s Communications Design program and returned to teach there from 2009 to 2014. His gallery work has been shown in cities around the world including New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Calgary, Mexico City, and the Philippines. He published his book Plotted: A Literary Atlas in 2015 and he joins me today to talk about his book, Cinemaps: An Atlas of 35 Great Movies.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Also mentioned in this episode: | |||
| 24 Oct 2023 | 1.20 Author Interview with Ian Nathan #2 | 00:28:15 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Ian Nathan for the second time on the podcast He joins me today to talk about his book, David Lynch: A Retrospective.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Also mentioned in this episode:
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| 07 Nov 2023 | 1.21 Author Interview with Nate Patrin | 00:24:33 | |
In this author interview, I speak with Nate Patrin, a freelance writer based in St. Paul, Minnesota. He has covered nearly every imaginable genre of music for outlets including Bandcamp, Stereogum, Pitchfork, The Vinyl Factory, and Red Bull Music Academy. His first book Bring That Beat Back: How Sampling Built Hip-Hop was published in 2020, and he joins me today to talk about his new book, The Needle and the Lens: Pop Goes to the Movies from Rock 'n' Roll to Synthwave. Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 21 Nov 2023 | 1.22 Thanksgiving Special Filmmaker Interview with Giorgio Ghiotto | 00:16:00 | |
In the first of a three part Thanksgiving special, I interview Giorgio Ghiotto, recent recipient of the Gold Medal in the Documentary category at the 2023 Student Academy Awards. He was recognized for his film "Wings of Dust" which shines a spotlight on the activism of Vidal Merma, an independent journalist in Peru.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 23 Nov 2023 | 1.23 Thanksgiving Special Filmmaker Interview with Iain Forbes | 00:13:27 | |
In the my second of the three part Thanksgiving special, I interview Iain Forbes, recent recipient of the Silver Medal in the Narrative category at the 2023 Student Academy Awards. He was recognized for his film "Revisited" which explores how a family reacts when the father they thought was dead for 20 years suddenly returns to their home.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 25 Nov 2023 | 1.24 Thanksgiving Special Filmmaker Interview with the creators of "Boom" | 00:21:47 | |
In my third and final part of the Thanksgiving special, I interview four of the five creators of the animated short film "Boom," which won the Gold Medal in animation at the 2023 Student Academy Awards.
Books mentioned in this episode include:
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 03 Jan 2024 | 2.1 Author Interview with Saul Austerlitz | 00:26:14 | |
Happy New Year! It's my first interview author of 2024, and today I speak with Saul Austerlitz, a freelance writer whose work has been published in the New York Times, Esquire, Vanity Fair, and Rolling Stone. He is an adjunct professor of writing and comedy history at New York University, and the author of Generation Friends, Just a Shot Away, Sitcom, Another Fine Mess, and Money for Nothing. He joins me today to talk about his new book, Kind of a Big Deal: How Anchorman Stayed Classy and Became the Most Iconic Comedy of the Twenty-First Century.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 17 Jan 2024 | 2.2 Author Interview with Katie Gee Salisbury | 00:28:19 | |
In today's interview, I speak with Katie Gee Salisbury, a writer and photographer whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Vanity Fair, The Believer, and the Asian American Writers’ Workshop. She also writes the newsletter Half-Caste Woman. She has spoken about her work at the Museum of Chinese in America, Barnard College, New York University, and gave a TED Talk entitled “As American as Chop Suey.” She joins me today to talk about her first book, Not Your China Doll: The Wild and Shimmering Life of Anna May Wong.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 23 Jan 2024 | 2.3 96th Academy Awards Nominees | 00:10:30 | |
The nominees for the 96th Academy Awards were announced early this morning. The nominees come from 53 films across 23 categories and cover all sorts of films from dramas to comedies, blockbusters to indie darlings. There will be plenty more to come from The Oscar Project in the next month and a half, but for today, let’s just get straight to the nominees! | |||
| 30 Jan 2024 | 2.4 2023 Podcast Year in Review | 00:27:39 | |
As we near the end of January, I'm looking back at 2023. I interviewed 10 amazing authors about their books and spoke with six filmmakers as well. There was so much new content on The Oscar Project Podcast, it was hard to pick the best bits, but here are some of my favorite parts of the interviews from 2023.
And of course, check out the work of my filmmaker interviewees
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| 06 Feb 2024 | 2.5 Filmmaker Interview with Jean Chapiro | 00:15:04 | |
In this week's episode, I interview Jean Chapiro, recipient of the Bronze Medal in the Documentary category at the 2023 Student Academy Awards. She was recognized for her film "Till We Find Them" which looks at the families of missing persons in Mexico as they look for their loved ones.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Jean on Instagram @jean.chap | |||
| 09 Feb 2024 | 2.6 Filmmaker Interview with Misan Harriman | 00:18:52 | |
In this week's episode, I interview Misan Harriman, the director of "The After", a powerful and affecting story that follows a man who has to reconnect with himself and society after witnessing a devastating random attack. After its world premier at the Oscar®-qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival, where it won Best Live Action Short, this incredibly thought-provoking short film is officially nominated for the 96th Academy Awards and Misan is kind enough to join me today and talk about the film. Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Misan on Instagram @misanharriman | |||
| 14 Feb 2024 | 2.7 Author Interview with Ryan Britt | 00:25:44 | |
In today's interview, I speak with Ryan Britt, a fiction and non-fiction author who has written for Inverse, Esquire, The New York Times, and StarTrek.com, among others. His first two books were Luke Skywalker Can’t Read and Other Geeky Truths and PHASERS ON STUN! How the Making and Remaking of Star Trek Changed the World. He joins me to talk about his latest book, The Spice Must Flow: The Story of Dune, from Cult Novels to Visionary Sci-Fi Movies.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Ryan on Twitter (@RyancBritt) or Instagram (@ryan.britt) and check him out at the Tucson Book Festival on March 9th. | |||
| 27 Feb 2024 | 2.9 Filmmaker Interview with Vincent René-lortie | 00:22:22 | |
In today's episode, I interview Vincent René-lortie, the director of "Invincible", an ode to the memory of Marc-Antoine Bernier and the tale of a young man yearning for his freedom. The film is nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 96th Academy® Awards after winning Best Live Action Short Film at Chicago Children’s Film Festival in 2022 and Rendez-vous Québec Cinéma in 2023 .
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Vincent on Instagram @vincentrenelortie and the film Invincble @invincibleshortfilm | |||
| 23 Feb 2024 | 2.8 Filmmaker Interview with Nazrin Choudhury | 00:31:47 | |
In today's episode, I interview Nazrin Choudhury, the director of "Red, White and Blue", the story of a single mother in Arkansas who must cross state lines in search of an abortion. After winning the Grand Jury Award for Best Live Action Short at the Edmonton International Film Festival, the film is nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 96th Academy® Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Nazrin on Instagram @nazrin.choudhury and the film Red, White and Blue @redwhiteandbluefilm | |||
| 09 Mar 2024 | 2.10 96th Academy Awards Preview | 00:19:56 | |
It's time for me to break down who I think will win at the Oscars this weekend. In this episode I go over all 23 categories, letting you know who I think will win the Oscar and who I think should win. They don't always match, so listen in to win your Oscar prediction pool! | |||
| 12 Mar 2024 | 2.11 96th Academy Awards Recap | 00:36:28 | |
With the 96th Academy Awards in the book, I am joined today by Luis Mendez to discuss all the happenings at the Oscars on Sunday night. | |||
| 19 Mar 2024 | 2.12 Spring Preview | 00:03:08 | |
On today's episode, I give a quick preview of some of the things I'm working on for the podcast in the coming weeks a months. Be sure to subscribe to the show in your podcast player and follow The Oscar Project for all the updates.
I'm appearing on the next episode of The Playlist Project podcast with my friend Stacy. Check out her podcast all about the music people love at the link above. | |||
| 26 Mar 2024 | 2.14 Author Interview with Lisa Stein Haven | 00:20:00 | |
In today's interview, I speak with Lisa Stein Haven, a Professor of English at Ohio University and expert in all things Charlie Chaplin. She has written extensively on the actor and director and hosted the first international Charlie Chaplin conference ever held on American soil in 2010, the 100th anniversary of Charlie's first trip to America. In addition to several works on Charlie Chaplin, she has published books about hi brother Syd Chaplin and Max Linder. She joins the show to talk about her latest book, The Early Years of Charlie Chaplin: Final Shorts and First Features.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Lisa on Instagram (@lisasteinhaven) and check out her Amazon Author Page for links to all of her books. | |||
| 29 Mar 2024 | 2.15 Sadie Thompson-When it Rains, it Pours | 00:14:47 | |
Today I am discussing the 1928 film Sadie Thompson. The film tells the story of Sadie Thompson, a woman of questionable moral character, and Mr. Davidson, the devout missionary who makes it his mission to reform her while they are both forced to stay on a remote Pacific island. Listen now to hear about the troubles the film faced in being made, how Swanson's performance can be related to her later work in Sunset Boulevard, and as always, my own thoughts about the film. | |||
| 04 Apr 2024 | 2.16 Movie Chat with Kyle, winner of the 2024 Oscars Prediction Contest | 00:33:11 | |
In today's episode, I am joined by Kyle, the winner of the 2024 Oscar prediction contest on The Oscar Project. We talk about a little of everything including what we liked from the 96th Academy Awards, other movies from 2023 we enjoyed, and things we're looking forward to in 2024.
The list of films we mentioned is too long to include in the show notes, but check out the full Letterboxd list for this episode. A few films mentioned in this episode include:
Check out Kyle on the Picture Box Cinema Hour Podcast with Gavin. | |||
| 16 Apr 2024 | 2.17 Author Interview with Andrew Stanley Kiste | 00:31:42 | |
In today's interview, I speak with Andrew Stanley Kiste, a campus life director and life long lover of all things Disney. He has written articles and books including Walt Disney and the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, and three volumes of A Historical Tour of Walt Disney World. He joins me today to talk about his new book, The Early Life of Walt Disney.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Andrew on Facebook (@Andrew Kiste-Author) and check out his website and Amazon Author Page for links to all of his books. Check out his articles in | |||
| 14 May 2024 | 2.18 Filmmaker Interview with Nick Russell and Nick Musgrove | 00:31:33 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Nick Russell and writer Nick Musgrove, about their short film "Favourites," about parents who are forced to make an impossible choice. The film has been showing at festivals including Australia's Flickerfest and the San Diego International Film Festival and will be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York this June.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow the film and Nick Russell on Instagram @favouritesfilm and @nickrussdog and follow Nick Musgrove on Twitter @Nickmusgrove | |||
| 22 May 2024 | 2.19 Filmmaker Interview with Julia Aks and Steve Pinder | 00:28:23 | |
In today's episode, I interview the writer/director pair of Julia Aks and Steve Pinder about their short film "Jane Austen's Period Drama," a hilarious comedy about well, periods, set in England two centuries ago. The film played at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February and will be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York this June.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow the film on Instagram @janeaustensperioddrama along with Julia @jaksicle and Steve @stevecpinder. Also check out their videos on YouTube. | |||
| 28 May 2024 | 2.20 Filmmaker Interview with Courtney Dixon | 00:15:09 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Courtney Dixon about her short documentary "Depression is a Beast," a frank look at how horror films can help people cope with anxiety and depression. The film was inspired by a New York Times article and will be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York this June.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Courtney and the film on Instagram @courtneydixon and @depressionisabeast. | |||
| 04 Jun 2024 | 2.21 Filmmaker Interview with Antonina Kerguelén Román | 00:29:18 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Antonina Kerguelén Román about her short film “¡salsa!” a look at the world of music through the experience of someone who cannot hear. The film will be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York this June.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Antonina and the film on Instagram @antoninakr and @salsashortfilm. | |||
| 23 Jul 2024 | 2.22 Filmmaker Interview with Dana Koops | 00:20:02 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Dana Koops about her upcoming short film “La Bibliothèque” an intimate look at a young woman dealing with grief. The film has its world premiere at ComicCon this July 28th as part of the San Diego International Children's Film Festival.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Dana on Instagram @danakoops. | |||
| 30 Jul 2024 | 2.23 HollyShorts 2024 Preview | 00:12:51 | |
As I gear up for a series of interviews with filmmakers featured at the 2024 HollyShorts Film Festival, I'm kicking off this coverage by bringing you a few interviews that I did with some of this year's filmmakers that I already spoke with previously on the podcast. If you like these excerpts, check out the full episodes below:
Be sure to check out their work at the HollyShorts Film Festival if you're in Los Angeles this August. | |||
| 02 Aug 2024 | 2.24 Filmmaker Interview with Rebecca King and Nina Yndis | 00:29:28 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Rebecca King and actress/producer Nina Yndis about their film "Elsa" about a tense love triangle between a Norwegian civilian woman, her adoring neighbor and a German soldier during World War II. The film will be showing this August at the Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow the film on Instagram @womenlikeelsa. Rebecca is @rebeccajking_ and Nina is @ninayndis. | |||
| 06 Aug 2024 | 2.25 Filmmaker Interview with Wendi Tang | 00:18:02 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Wendi Tang about her film "Fishtank," a surreal story about a woman struggling to remain sober, but for some reason she can't stop vomiting goldfish. The film will be showing this August at the Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival and the HollyShorts Film Festival.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow the film on Instagram @fishtank.mov and Wendi @_wenditang. | |||
| 20 Aug 2024 | 2.26 Filmmaker Interview with Dur Jamjoom | 00:20:14 | |
In today's episode, I interview director Dur Jamjoom about her film "Kum-Kum," a story of loss and grief built from her own personal experiences. The film was featured at the Tribeca Film Festival back in June.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Dur on Instagram @dur_jamjoom. | |||
| 27 Aug 2024 | 2.27 Filmmaker Interview with Lu Lu | 00:18:38 | |
In today's episode, I interview Lu Lu about her film "Invocation," a story of dealing with life's changes based on her own personal experiences. The film was selected as a semifinalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards. Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Lu Lu on Instagram @grooffe_llu. | |||
| 30 Aug 2024 | 2.28 Filmmaker Interview with Robin Wang | 00:25:40 | |
In today's episode, I interview Robin Wang about his film "Neither Donkey Nor Horse," a blending of historical fiction with science fiction. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Robin Wang on Instagram @robin_z_wang. | |||
| 03 Sep 2024 | 2.29 Filmmaker Interview with Tomás Orrego | 00:12:46 | |
In today's episode, I interview Tomás Orrego about his film "Fever," an experimental short film that was selected as a semifinalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Tomás on Instagram @fantomasengendro and check out his website https://www.tomasorrego.com. | |||
| 06 Sep 2024 | 2.30 Filmmaker Interview with Luke Salewski | 00:20:21 | |
In today's episode, I interview Luke Salewski about his film "The Lights Above," a genre crossing short film set in Los Angeles in the early day of 1942. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Luke and the film on Instagram @lukejsalewski and @thelightsabovemovie and check out the film website at https://thelightsabove.com/. | |||
| 10 Sep 2024 | 2.31 Filmmaker Interview with Roger Torres | 00:23:48 | |
In today's episode, I interview Roger Torres about his film "Irma," a personal story of family dealing with difficult choices that is based on his own life. The film was selected as a semifinalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Video Games mentioned in this episode include:
Check out the film at the International Puerto Rican Heritage Film Festival in November. | |||
| 13 Sep 2024 | 2.32 Filmmaker Interview with Loïc Girault and Anna Danton | 00:18:05 | |
In today's episode, I interview Loïc Girault and Anna Danton, two of the creators of the film "Coquille," an animated short that follows an adorable little hermit crab looking for safety on the beach. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Check out the film at the following film festivals this fall:
Follow the film on Instagram @coquille.movie and all of the creators @annaadrw @boldpictures_ @gatien_anim3d @gregoirecallies @lgirault_3d @justine.devys @maudz_art_est_la @chatnapandraw. Also subscribe to the ESMA YouTube channel to see the film when it publishes there later this year. | |||
| 17 Sep 2024 | 2.33 Author Interview with Craig Singer and Michael Benson | 00:24:06 | |
In today's interview, I speak with Craig Singer and Michael Benson, authors of the upcoming book Moguls: The Lives and Times of Hollywood Film Pioneers Nicholas and Joseph Schenck.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Michael on Facebook and Craig on Instagram @craigsinger1. | |||
| 20 Sep 2024 | 2.34 Filmmaker Interview with Luke Purdye | 00:43:38 | |
In today's episode, I interview Luke Purdye the director of the short documentary "Mail Order Queens," an intimate film about the world of beekeeping. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Check out the film at the following film festivals this fall: Follow Luke on Instagram @lukepurdye and send him a message to get information about private screenings in October. You can also check out his website at https://www.lukepurdye.com/. | |||
| 24 Sep 2024 | 2.35 Filmmaker Interview with Julia Grupińska, Tian Westraad, and Ezequiel Garibay | 00:21:30 | |
In today's episode, I interview Julia Grupińska, Tian Westraad, and Ezequiel Garibay, three of the five directors of the short film "El Ombligo de la Luna." The short animated film is a heartwarming story of a boy reconnecting with his long lost father and was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
You can check out the film on YouTube and find the work of Aldo Martínez who composed the music for the film on SoundCloud and Instagram. Follow the film on Instagram @luna.gobelins, Julia @juliagrupinska, Tian @tian.ouest, and Ezequiel @ezequiel_garibay. | |||
| 27 Sep 2024 | 2.36 Filmmaker Interview with Zac Lazarou | 00:16:39 | |
In today's episode, I interview Zac Lazarou the director of the short documentary "The Undertakers," an beautiful look at the underappreciated world of vultures in Africa. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Check out the film at the following film festivals this fall: Follow Luke on Instagram @zacwildfilm. | |||
| 01 Oct 2024 | 2.37 Filmmaker Interview with Daniel Salas | 00:20:43 | |
In today's episode, I interview Daniel Salas the director of the experimental short film "WIRED," a surreal look at the impact technology can have on a person. The film was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Daniel on Instagram @des_alas for updates on screenings and festival selections this fall. | |||
| 04 Oct 2024 | 2.38 Filmmaker Interview with Louisa Connolly-Burnham | 00:19:00 | |
In today's episode, I interview Louisa Connolly-Burnham the director of the short film "Sister Wives," an exploration of the dynamics between two women in a polygamous relationship as they explore their love for each other.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
The film showed at Hollyshorts in Los Angeles this summer and will be showing at the London Breeze Film Festival from October 23-27 and the North East International Film Festival from November 18-24. The film will also be available in the US on Film4 later this year. Follow the film on Instagram @sisterwivesfilm for updates on screenings and festival selections and follow Louisa @louisaconnollyburnham. | |||
| 08 Oct 2024 | 2.39 Filmmaker Interview with Birdy Wei-Ting Hung | 00:22:28 | |
In today's episode, I interview Birdy Wei-Ting Hung, the director of the experimental short film "A Brighter Summer Day for the Lady Avengers." The film looks at the experience of a young girl in 1980s Taiwan and won a gold award at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
You can follow Birdy on Instagram @birdymakesfilms and check out her website at https://www.birdyweitinghung.org/. Read Birdy's essay about the two films that inspired her work at MaiFeminism.com. | |||
| 11 Oct 2024 | 2.40 Filmmaker Interview with Luke Morgan | 00:20:26 | |
In today's episode, I interview Luke Morgan, the director of the short film "The Boat." The film is based on a heartbreaking true story of a father who must make a difficult choice when his daughter begins exhibiting troubling medical symptoms and is it qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Luke and his brother on Instagram @morgan_bros and the film @calf_thefilm. | |||
| 16 Oct 2024 | 2.41 Filmmaker Interview with Tom Potter | 00:35:30 | |
In today's episode, I interview Tom Potter, the director of the experimental short film "Lullaby for the Lost" which explores the memories of a man who is beginning to forget his mother. The film was a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Tom on Instagram @tompotterr_ and the film @lullabyforthelost.bfs. | |||
| 18 Oct 2024 | 2.42 2024 Student Academy Award Recap | 00:06:52 | |
In honor of the Student Academy Awards that took place this past Monday October 14th, I'm providing a quick recap of the winners. You'll also hear a little bit of my interviews from earlier this year with two of the winners and some thoughts on the ceremony experience itself. | |||
| 22 Oct 2024 | 2.43 Filmmaker Interview with Bartłomiej Błaszczyński | 00:20:23 | |
In today's episode, I interview Bartłomiej Błaszczyński, the director of the short film "Take Me to Her" which explores the story of a woman who has gone through an incredible loss, and struggles to deal with it. The film was a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Take Me to Her" just screened at the Warsaw International Film Festival last week and you can check out the film at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival this November. | |||
| 29 Oct 2024 | 2.45 Filmmaker Interview with Jamie O’Rourke | 00:23:55 | |
In today's episode, I interview Jamie O’Rourke, the director of the short film "Calf." The film looks at a topic that is extremely relevant to many people around the world today, yet not talked about nearly enough and is it qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Jamie on Instagram @jamie_o_rourke and the film @calf_thefilm. | |||
| 25 Oct 2024 | 2.44 Filmmaker Interview with Kirsten Slemint | 00:21:57 | |
In today's episode, I interview Kirsten Slemint, the director of the short film "Burnt Country" which explores the threat of wildfire in Australia and the indigenous population who works hard to help manage the threat. The film was a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
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| 01 Nov 2024 | 2.46 Filmmaker Interview with Sarah Blok | 00:19:16 | |
In today's episode, I interview Sarah Blok, the director of the short film "Trouble" which explores the story of a family dealing with changing relationships amid the separation of the two parents. The film was a finalist for the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Trouble" recently screened at the BFI London Film Festival and will likely be screening at other festivals throughout the fall and winter. | |||
| 05 Nov 2024 | 2.47 Filmmaker Interview with Jens Kevin Georg | 00:19:24 | |
In today's episode, I interview Jens Kevin Georg, the director of the short film "Crust" which tells the story of a young boy in search of his first scar. The film received the silver medal in the narrative category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Crust" will be playing at the Alcine Film Festival in Spain and the Izmir Short Film Festival in Turkey both in November. | |||
| 08 Nov 2024 | 2.48 Filmmaker Interview with Hannah Rafkin | 00:20:31 | |
In today's episode, I interview Hannah Rafkin, the director of the short film "Keeper," a documentary about one man's effort to keep bees in the Bronx while raising his daughters as a single father. The film received the gold medal in the documentary category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Keeper" will be playing at DOCNYC next week on November 13th and 15th and there will be several screenings in New York later this fall. | |||
| 12 Nov 2024 | 2.49 Filmmaker Interview with Rishabh Raj Jain | 00:27:58 | |
In today's episode, I interview Rishabh Raj Jain, the director of the short film "A Dream Called Kushi (Happiness)," a documentary about a one young woman seeking an opportunity to escape a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh and receive education in the West. The film received the bronze medal in the documentary category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"A Dream Called Kushi (Happiness)" was presented at the Tasveer Film Festival in October and is looking for other . | |||
| 15 Nov 2024 | 2.50 Filmmaker Interview with Florian Maurice, Maxime Foltzer, and Estelle Bonnardel | 00:35:12 | |
In today's episode, I interview Florian Maurice, Maxime Foltzer, and Estelle Bonnardel, the directors of the short film "Au Revoir Mon Monde," an animated film about a man in a fish costume trying to reach the woman he loves before the world ends. The film received the gold medal in the animation category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Au Revoir Mon Monde" has been presented at numerous film festivals around the world this year and is in the running for the 97th Academy Awards. | |||
| 19 Nov 2024 | 2.51 Filmmaker Interview with Aaron Johnson | 00:17:33 | |
In today's episode, I interview Aaron Johnson, the director of the short film "The 17%," a documentary about Colette Divitto, a young woman with Downs Syndrome and her successful cookie business. The film received the silver medal in the documentary category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"The 17%" is waiting to hear back from multiple festivals and is eligible for the 97th Academy Awards. | |||
| 22 Nov 2024 | 2.52 Author Interview with Neal Fischer | 00:16:57 | |
In today's episode, I interview Neal Fischer, author of two new movie trivia books, The Rom-Com Ultimate Movie Trivia Book and the Christmas Movie Ultimate Trivia Book. He also hosts two podcasts, Triviality and Curated by Chance.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
Follow Neal on Instagram @nealefischer, check out his website nealefischer.com, and pre-order his upcoming books on Mr. Beast, Steph Curry, and | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | 2.53 Jackson Ytreberg Memorial Episode | 00:22:53 | |
17 years ago today, my wife Denise and I lost our first son Jackson and it was by far the hardest thing either of us has ever been through. I asked her to come on the podcast with me to tell Jackson's story to the world and help me remember him on this very difficult day.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 29 Nov 2024 | 2.54 Filmmaker Interview with Akshit Kumar | 00:11:28 | |
In today's episode, I interview Akshit Kumar, the director of the short film "bonVoyage pour monVoyage," an experimental film animating Akshit's travels. The film received the bronze medal in the experimental/alternative category at the 2024 Student Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"bonVoyage pour monVoyage" is screening at the International Short Film Festival on Cultural Tourism in December, and is waiting to hear back from international film festivals. | |||
| 03 Dec 2024 | 2.55 Filmmaker Interview with Marco Perego | 00:18:50 | |
In today's episode, I interview Marco Pergeo, the director of the short film "Dovecote," a intimate look at one woman's preparation to leave prison. Filmed in a working women's prison in Venice and featuring actual inmates, the film stars Zoe Saldaña and is qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Dovecote" will be screening in early December in L.A. and likely following to additional film festivals in the coming months. | |||
| 06 Dec 2024 | 2.56 Filmmaker Interview with Emiliano Bolado, Isaac Bell, and Madalyn Horcher | 00:50:45 | |
In today's episode, I interview Isaac Bell, Emiliano Bolado, and Madalyn Horcher, three of the creative forces behind the short film "Over the Board," a story of two long lost brothers who connect over a shared interest in chess. Isaac stars with his twin brother Elijah (who sadly was not available to join the conversation) and the film is qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Over the Board" will be part of the Stockholm City Film Festival, and you can reach out to the creators on Instagram for a private screener link to the film. | |||
| 10 Dec 2024 | 2.57 Filmmaker Interview with Nebojsa Slijepcevic | 00:19:14 | |
In today's episode, I interview Nebojsa Slijepcevic, the director of the short film "The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent," a story of one man who decided to stand up for those being persecuted unfairly. The film is currently qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent" has been screening at festivals around the world and any upcoming screenings are available on the film's Facebook and Instagram pages. You can also follow Nebojsa on Instagram @neb_sli. | |||
| 13 Dec 2024 | 2.58 Filmmaker Interview with Aryasb Feiz | 00:10:47 | |
In today's episode, I interview Aryasb Feiz, the director of the short film "Tomorrow," a story of a young boy fighting for survival in the streets of Shiraz in the 1970s. The film is currently qualified for the 97th Academy Awards.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Tomorrow" will be screening in L.A. in January and will continue to have a festival run throughout the winter. You can also watch it for free on YouTube. | |||
| 17 Dec 2024 | 2.59 97th Oscar Shortlist Reaction | 00:08:31 | |
In today's episode, I look over the Oscar shortlists for ten categories that were released by The Academy this morning and provide initial reactions. The categories with announced shortlists are:
Check out the full list of films on my Substack newsletter. | |||
| 21 Dec 2024 | 2.60 2024 Documentaries Recap | 00:23:40 | |
I am joined on the podcast today by fellow Substack author Vicki Lesley where we sit down to discuss 2024 in documentaries. We review the Oscar short lists that were announced earlier this week, and talk about a few of our favorites as well as some of the titles that were missing from these lists.
Documentary Short Subject
Subscribe to Vicki's newsletter. | |||
| 27 Dec 2024 | 2.61 Top 10s of 2024 | 00:19:35 | |
Today's episode is the first of several year end episodes where I recap 2024 and look ahead into 2025. First up are my top 10s of 2024 where my lists include:
Be sure to check out my Substack newsletter for full articles on each of these as we count down to the new year and my next episode where I will be recapping everything that happened on the podcast in 2024. | |||
| 31 Dec 2024 | 2.62 2024 Podcast Year in Review | 00:20:43 | |
It's time for my 2024 podcast year in review where I count down the 12 most listened to episode of the year. Check back in this podcast feed for all the episodes mentioned. | |||
| 06 Jan 2025 | 3.2 2025 Film Preview | 00:11:29 | |
Today's episode is a rundown of all the biggest films (and some not so big) that will be coming out in wide release in 2025. These dates are always subject to change, so be sure to subscribe to The Oscar Project newsletter to stay up to date on all the new releases coming your way each and every week. | |||
| 03 Jan 2025 | 3.1 Street Angel with Beth Lisogorsky | 00:39:56 | |
Happy New Year!
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| 08 Jan 2025 | 3.3 Filmmaker Interview with Hannah Beach, Phoebe Campbell-Harris, and Sophie Stacey | 00:23:06 | |
In today's episode, I interview Hannah Beach, Phoebe Campbell-Harris, and Sophie Stacey, the director, writer, and producer of the short film "A Matter of Minutes," a story of a young woman facing a life threatening situation at a house party.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"A Matter of Minutes" will be continuing its festival run throughout 2025. | |||
| 10 Jan 2025 | 3.4 Tempest with Amanda Kusek | 00:33:59 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1928 film Tempest. My friend Amanda Kusek from The 90-Minute Movie newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about the nature of shifting character dynamics throughout a film, how we see historical events through the lens of film, and almost being able to hear the voice of an actor from his performance on screen even in a silent film.
Other links:
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| 14 Jan 2025 | 3.5 Two Arabian Knights with Shawna Carroll | 00:35:37 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1927 film Two Arabian Knights. My friend Shawna Carroll from Notes from Post newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about the key players involved in the film (including someone you might know better as a famous monster), how you could easily remake this film with Bugs Bunny and Wile E. Coyote, and what a shame it is that we don't have any Oscar categories specifically geared toward comedic films.
Other works referenced:
Read the story that served as the basis for the film in McClure's Magazine in three parts (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3). | |||
| 23 Jan 2025 | 3.8 97th Oscar Nominees | 00:13:16 | |
The nominees for the 97rth Academy Awards are here. Take a listen to hear the full list, some fun trivia facts about the nominees, and my personal thoughts on the films that made the cut as well as those that were snubbed. | |||
| 17 Jan 2025 | 3.6 Wildfire Aid Resources | 00:10:17 | |
In the wake of the wildfires in Los Angeles, I wanted to leave some links to resources you can use if you are affected, or if you want to help those in need. I also provide a brief schedule update for the podcast in the next few weeks.
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| 21 Jan 2025 | 3.7 Underworld with Jeff Kramer | 00:29:40 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1927 film Underworld. My friend Jeff Kramer from The Death Star Human Resources Department Newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about other films that start off with a heist like this one, how the idea of a mobster has changed over the last century of film, and some of the film techniques used in this film that are still relevant today.
Other works referenced:
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| 28 Jan 2025 | 3.9 Filmmaker Interview with Luke Shelley, Jenna-Louise Hawkins, and Sophie Stacey | 00:36:25 | |
In today's episode, I interview Luke Shelley, Jenna-Louise Hawkins, and Sophie Stacey, the director, writer, and producer of the short film "What We Wished We Could Be," a story of a young couple dealing with illness as a result of contaminated blood.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"What We Wished We Could Be" will be continuing its festival run throughout 2025. | |||
| 31 Jan 2025 | 3.10 The Last Command with Vicki Lesley | 00:36:33 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1928 film The Last Command. My friend Vicki Lesley from the Meandering Over the Pebbles newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about how actors were able to use their eyes to convey emotion in silent films, how audiences might have understood the film at the time, and how the film sometimes pokes fun at the world of Hollywood filmmaking at the time.
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| 04 Feb 2025 | 3.11 Filmmaker Interview with Adam J. Graves | 00:28:31 | |
In today's episode, I interview Adam J. Graves, the director of the short film "Anuja," a story of two young sisters working in a garment factory in India.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"Anuja" is currently nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Tune into the Oscars live on ABC on Sunday March 2nd. Find out more about the Salaam Baalak Trust on their website. On Instagram Adam is @adam_j_graves and you can also follow the film @anujathefilm for all the latest updates. | |||
| 07 Feb 2025 | 3.12-Sunrise with Joe Cruz | 00:44:17 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1927 film Sunrise: The Song of Two Humans. My friend Joe Cruz from the Joe's Video Club newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about how modern filmmakers could take a lesson from Murnau in trusting the audience to understand the story based on visuals alone, how we disagree with the reviewers of the time when it comes to the acting in the film, and some of the incredible film techniques on display in the film.
Other references:
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| 11 Feb 2025 | 3.13-Filmmaker Interview with Victoria Warmerdam and Trent | 00:27:17 | |
In today's episode, I interview Victoria Warmerdam and Trent, the director and producer of the short film "I'm Not a Robot," a story of a woman who discovers that she might just be a robot and how she deals with that realization.
Films mentioned in this episode include:
"I'm Not a Robot" is currently nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards and you can watch it right now on The New Yorker Screening Room on YouTube! Tune into the Oscars live on ABC on Sunday March 2nd. You can follow Oak Motion Pictures on Instagram @oakmotion and check out their website at https://oakmotionpictures.com/. | |||
| 14 Feb 2025 | 3.14-7th Heaven with Maria Banson | 00:36:20 | |
Today's episode is my 100th episode(!) and my conversation about the 1927 film 7th Heaven. My friend Maria Banson from the Brunello Bombshell newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about the connection between Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell that began with this film, the religious undertones that keep cropping up throughout the film, and some stunning cinematography that has to be seen to be believed.
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| 18 Feb 2025 | 3.15-Wings with Kevin Pettit | 00:46:49 | |
Today's episode is my conversation about the 1927 film Wings. My friend Kevin Pettit from the See You At The Movies newsletter joins me to discuss the film and we talk about some of the most impressive special effects in early films, the various aspects of love between many of the characters in the film, and someone who has way too much fun with bubbles!
Other referenced topics: | |||
| 21 Feb 2025 | 3.16-1st Oscars Recap | 00:15:12 | |
Today's episode is my recap of everything from the very first Academy Awards back in 1929. Listen as I walk through the nominees and winners of every category and give a final ranking of all 17 films I was able to watch from this first year of the Oscars. If you missed any of the episodes discussing specific films, you can go back in this feed or just tap on the links below.
Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get my 97th Academy Awards preview episodes covering all 23 categories at this year's Oscars in the lead up to the ceremony on March 2nd. And if you want to be a guest on this very podcast for the 2nd Academy Awards, send me a message replying to this episode and let me know you're interested. I would love to have your voice join the podcast to share your insights on films from 1928 and 1929. | |||
| 24 Feb 2025 | 3.17-97th Academy Awards Preview-Part 1 | 00:29:51 | |
Today's is the first of a five episode preview of the 97th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Joanne Thornborough from the Pop! Goes My Brain newsletter to break down all of the technical categories. I've listed the nominees below along with a few other films mentioned throughout the episode. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the preview episodes this week, and head over to my Substack to submit your guesses for my annual Oscar prediction contest. The nominees for each category are listed below. Best Sound:
Best Production Design:
Best Cinematography:
Best Makeup and Hairstyling:
Best Costume Design:
Best Film Editing:
Best Visual Effects:
Other films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 25 Feb 2025 | 3.18-97th Academy Awards Preview-Part 2 | 00:30:04 | |
Today is the second of a five episode preview of the 97th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Enrico Banson from the Director's Notes newsletter to break down Best Animated Feature, Best International Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Original Score, and Best Original Song. I've listed the nominees below along with a few other films mentioned throughout the episode. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the preview episodes this week, and head over to my Substack to submit your guesses for my annual Oscar prediction contest. The nominees for each category are listed below. Best Animated Feature:
Best International Feature:
Best Documentary Feature:
Best Original Score:
Best Original Song:
Other films mentioned in this episode include:
Other media mentioned in this episode include:
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| 26 Feb 2025 | 3.19-97th Academy Awards Preview-Part 3 | 00:18:16 | |
Today is the third of a five episode preview of the 97th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Brandon MacMurray from the Short Stick Films website to break down Best Animated Short Film, Best Live Action Short Film, and Best Documentary Short Film. I've listed the nominees below along with a few other films mentioned throughout the episode. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the preview episodes this week, and head over to my Substack to submit your guesses for my annual Oscar prediction contest. The nominees for each category are listed below. Best Animated Short Film:
Best Live Action Short Film:
Best Documentary Short Film:
Other films mentioned in this episode include:
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| 27 Feb 2025 | 3.20-97th Academy Awards Preview-Part 4 | 00:41:51 | |
Today is the third of a five episode preview of the 97th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Kevin Pettit from the See You at the Movies newsletter to break down all four acting categories, both screenplay categories, and Best Director. I've listed the nominees below along with a few other films mentioned throughout the episode. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the preview episodes this week, and head over to my Substack to submit your guesses for my annual Oscar prediction contest. The nominees for each category are listed below. Best Original Screenplay:
Best Adapted Screenplay:
Best Supporting Actor:
Best Supporting Actress:
Best Actress:
Best Actor:
Best Director:
Other media mentioned in this episode include:
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| 28 Feb 2025 | 3.21-97th Academy Awards Preview-Part 5 | 00:46:44 | |
Today is the final episode in my preview of the 97th Academy Awards where I will have broken down every category over the course of this week. Today I am joined by Maria Banson from the Brunello Bombshell newsletter to break down all ten films nominated for Best Picture. I've listed the nominees below along with a few other films mentioned throughout the episode. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all new episodes, and head over to my Substack to submit your guesses for my annual Oscar prediction contest. You can also enter Maria's prediction contest. The nominees for each category are listed below. Best Picture:
Other media mentioned in this episode include:
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| 03 Mar 2025 | 3.22-97th Academy Awards Recap | 00:21:25 | |
The 97th Academy Awards are over and today I'm joined by Shawna Carroll from the Notes from Post newsletter to recap everything that happened at last night's ceremony. Listen to hear us talk about the biggest winners and losers of the evening, some of the beautiful style we got to see, and anything that caught us by surprise. Other topics mentioned:
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