The Oscar Project Podcast

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1931 film The Criminal Code. I'm joined by Murray Mintz from the CineVibeZ Fanzine newsletter and we talk about what it means to stick to the criminal code, an excellent supporting performance from a pre-Frankenstein Boris Karloff, and a new understanding of the term yammering.You can watch The Criminal Code online for yourself and be sure to check out Murray's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Right to Love directed by Richard Wallace (potentially lost)Stand and Deliver directed by Ramón MenéndezFive Star Final directed by Mervyn LeRoyThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaThe Dawn Patrol directed by Howard HawksScarface directed by Howard HawksThe Big Sleep directed by Howard HawksRio Bravo directed by Howard HawksFrankenstein directed by James WhaleHow the Grinch Stole Christmas! directed by Chuck JonesFrankenstein directed by Guillermo del ToroThe Big House directed by George HillCimarron directed by Wesley RugglesOther referenced topics:Five Star Final (play)The Criminal Code by Martin FlavinMorduant Hall's review in the New York TimesVariety reviewDennis Schwartz on dennisschwartzreviews.comPhotoplay Magazine reviewSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Wesley Wang, director of the short film “Violet and Marlowe Rob a Bank,” a frenetic animated short set to a new song "Feel It All Again" by adore.Listen to hear about the collaboration between Wesley and adore with their unreleased music, some of the films that informed the creation of these characters, and his plans for the future of his company in the new age of digital media.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Trial by Franz KafkaThe Metamorphosis by Franz KafkaFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:“Violet and Marlowe Rob a Bank” directed by Wesley Wang"nothing, except everything." directed by Wesley WangBonnie and Clyde directed by Arthur PennThe Matrix directed by Lilly Wachowski and Lana WachowskiJohn Wick directed by Chad Stahelski and David LeitchFantastic Mr. Fox directed by Wes AndersonWallace & Gromit directed by Nick ParkBackrooms directed by Kane ParsonsIron Lung directed by MarkiplierBrazil directed by Terry GilliamMulholland Drive directed by David LynchCity Lights directed by Charlie ChaplinThe Master directed by Paul Thomas AndersonThere Will Be Blood directed by Paul Thomas AndersonNo Country for Old Men directed by Joel Coen and Ethan CoenOther media mentioned in this episode:"did i tell u that i miss u" by adore"Feel It All Again" by adoreFollow Wesley on Instagram @wesleywanggg and subscribe to his YouTube channel @wesleywangfilm. You can also follow the film on Instagram @violetnmarlowe.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Royal Family of Broadway and I'm joined by Rebecca Deniston who writes the Taking Up More Room newsletter, and we talk about the distinct lack of story evident in the film, the complete ostentatiousness of every frame of the film, and how much influence the poor transfer of this film made on our opinion of it overall. You can watch The Royal Family of Broadway on YouTube and be sure to check out Rebecca's newsletter and her website takinguproom.com.Other films mentioned in this episode include:How the Grinch Stole Christmas! directed by Chuck JonesLaughter directed by Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneGone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingThe Women directed by George CukorMy Fair Lady directed by George CukorCitizen Kane directed by Orson WellesCimarron directed by Wesley RugglesYou Can't Take It With You directed by C.C. Coleman and Frank CapraThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry Beaumont (previous episode on The Broadway Melody with Kevin Pettit)Stage Door Canteen directed by Frank BorzageOther referenced topics:The New Yorkers (musical)The Barrymore Family on WikipediaEmanuel Levy writing on emanuellevy.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Javier Cano Larumbe, director of the short film "Void," a horror take on the effects of a pending divorce on the world of a young child.Listen to hear about the films that inspired this story, the process of casting the boy to play the lead actor in his film, and how he was able to turn the location of the home into a character of its own in the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:Reflections: On Cinematography by Sir Roger DeakinsFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Void" directed by Javier Cano LarumbeThe Sixth Sense directed by M. Night ShyamalanPoltergeist directed by Tobe HooperJaws directed by Steven SpielbergThe 400 Blows directed by François TruffautRear Window directed by Alfred HitchcockE.T. the Extra-Terrestrial directed by Steven SpielbergBatman directed by Tim BurtonThe Empire Strikes Back directed by Irvin KershnerFollow the Javier on Instagram @jcanolarumbe.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Min and Bill I'm joined by Maria Banson who writes the The Brunello Bombshell newsletter, and we talk about the interesting family dynamics at play in this film, an incredible (and Oscar worthy) performance from Marie Dressler in the lead role, and the second half of the film that flies by once the action really gets going. You can watch Min and Bill on YouTube, Tubi, or Amazon Prime or pick up a physical copy for your collection and be sure to check out Maria's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Big House directed by George HillThe Champ directed by King VidorTugboat Annie directed by Mervyn LeRoyThe Tragedy of Macbeth directed by Joel CoenNomadland directed by Chloé ZhaoThe Taming of the Shrew directed by Sam TaylorMorocco directed by Josef von SternbergHoliday directed by Edward H. GriffithA Free Soul directed by Clarence BrownCimarron directed by Wesley RugglesOther referenced topics:Call My Agent! (series)Dark Star by Lorna MoonSteve Kopian on unseenfilms.comDavid writing on simbasible.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Michael Cusumano and Charity Schubert, director, producer and lead actor of the short film "Last Minute," a comedic look at trying to get a school project done at the last minute in a world without the internet and smart phones.Listen to hear about the story that grew out of generational differences between school today and 40 years ago, a bit of luck in casting one of the film's main characters, and the way the production crowdsourced period furnishings for the set to make it look and feel like the late 1980s.Books mentioned in this episode include:Making Movies by Sydney LumetThe Only Woman in the Room: A Historical Novel of Hedy Lamarr and Her Secret Wartime Invention by Marie BenedictThe Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Last Minute" directed by Michael Cusumano"Napoleonic Code" directed by Michael CusumanoBack to the Future directed by Robert ZemeckisBlack Mirror (series)The Third Man directed by Carol ReedFargo directed by Joel CoenBig Night directed by Stanley Tucci and Campbell ScottDangerous Liaisons directed by Stephen FrearsMarie Antoinette directed by Sofia CoppolaBernie directed by Richard LinklaterSilence of the Lambs directed by Jonathan DemmeAll About Eve directed by Joseph L. MankiewiczAmadeus directed by Milos FormanOnly Lovers Left Alive directed by Jim JarmuschBram Stoker's Dracula directed by Francis Ford Coppola12 Angry Men directed by Sydney LumetNetwork directed by Sydney LumetDog Day Afternoon directed by Sydney LumetFollow the film on Instagram @lastminuteshortfilm, their production company @whiskeycatproductions, and Charity @charityschubert. You can also find information on the Marie Antoinette exhibit Charity mentioned on the Victoria & Albert website. You can also get more information on the Whiskey Cat Productions presentation of Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Christopher Hampton at their website.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Just Imagine I'm joined by Amanda Kusek who writes the The 90-Minute Movie newsletter, and we talk about the vision of 1980 as seen from 1930, how the film takes on a completely new plot nearly halfway through, and some out of this world imaginings of what people on Mars might be like.You can watch Just Imagine on YouTube, Tubi or the Amazon Prime or pick up a physical copy for your collection and be sure to check out Amanda's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Planet of the Apes directed by Franklin J. SchaffnerThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingBack to the Future Part II directed by Robert ZemeckisWings directed by William A. Wellman and Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastTarzan (film series)It's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank CapraA Woman of Affairs directed by Clarence Leon BrownFrankenstein directed by James WhaleCimarron directed by Wesley RugglesOther referenced topics:"California, Here I Come" written by Buddy DeSilva and performed by Al Jolson"California" by Phantom PlanetThe O.C. (series)Film Daily note about the print kept for future reviewNew York Times reviewNora Fiore writing on The Nitrate DivaJanne Wass on scifist.netSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my discussion of the 1930 film The Dawn Patrol. I don't have a guest today, but you can hear me discuss the comparisons between this and earlier WWI war films, the feud between Howard Hawks and Howard Hughes, and Hollywood's first nepo baby.You can watch The Dawn Patrol on YouTube, or Tubi or pick up a physical copy for your collection.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Hell's Angels directed by Howard HughesThe Air Circus directed by Howard Hawks (lost film)The Road to Glory directd by Howard Hawks (lost film)The Criminal Code directed by Howard HawksWings directed by William A. Wellman and Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastThe Patent Leather Kid directed by Alfred SantellThe Noose directed by John Francis Dillon (lost film)Little Caesar directed by Mervyn LeroyBulldog Drummond directed by F. Richard JonesThe Dawn Patrol (1938) directed by Edmund GouldingThe Doorway to Hell directed by Archie MayoLaughter directed by Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastOther referenced topics:Batman (series)The New Yorker reviewDanny Reid on pre-code.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Morocco I'm joined by Jake Myshrall who writes the Film Runner newsletter, and we talk about how stars like Marlene Dietrich were treated both on screen and off, the way von Sternberg layers the visual aspects of his film sets, and the lengths some men will go for love. You can watch Morocco on YouTube, Tubi or the Internet Archive or pick up a physical copy for your collection and be sure to check out Jake's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Thunderbolt directed by Josef von SternbergBlue Angel directed by Josef von SternbergShanghai Express directed by Josef von SternbergWings directed by William A. WellmanFarewell to Arms directed by Frank BorzageA Star is Born directed by William A. WellmanPaths of Glory directed by Stanley KubrickThe Front Page directed by Lewis MilestoneTempest directed by Sam Taylor and Victor TourjanskyWonder of Women directed by Clarence Leon BrownMadame X directed by Lionel BarrymoreThe Rogue Song directed by Lionel BarrymoreIntolerance directed by D. W. GriffithThe Criminal Code directed by Howard HawksSvengali directed by Archie MayoKing Kong directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. SchoedsackCasablanca directed by Michael CurtizOther referenced topics:"American Pie" by Don McLeanNew York Times review"Morocco (1930)- Celebrating iconography and deconstructing the icon" by Alyssa Marie on the Trial Bi Media"Morocco (1930) Film Review" on GreatBooksGuy.com Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Doorway to Hell I'm joined by Jeff Kramer who writes The Death Star Human Resources Department Newsletter, and we talk about comparisons between being a mobster and being in war, the decision to show a child being seriously injured in a film of this era, and what happens when the police detective knows something about the gangster's love interest that the gangster himself doesn't know. You can watch The Doorway to Hell on YouTube or Tubi for free and be sure to check out Jeff's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone directed by Chris ColumbusThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaHeat directed by Michael MannAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneGoodfellas directed by Martin ScorseseThe Leatherneck directed by Howard HigginGone with the Wind directed by Victor FlemingYankee Doodle Dandy directed by Michael CurtizDracula directed by Tod BrowningFrankenstein directed by James WhaleScarface (1932) directed by Howard HawksAvengers: Doomsday directed by Joe and Anthony RussoDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenCasino directed by Martin ScorseseThe Departed directed by Martin ScorseseOther referenced topics:London Calling (play) by Geoffrey KerrA Handful of Clouds (play) by Rowland BrownThe Simpsons (series)New York Times reviewVariety reviewDanny Reid on pre-code.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Radha Mehta, director of the short film "Sūnna," a look at the experience of a young girl losing her hearing and how that will impact the music that she shares with her mother.Listen to hear about the origins of the story in her own truth, the importance of using the sound to drive the narrative of the film, and the way she used the casting process to create incredible chemistry between the mother and daughter characters in her film.Books mentioned in this episode include:Directing Actors by Judith WestonFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Sūnna" written and directed by Radha Mehta"Witness" co-directed and produced by Radha MehtaSound of Metal directed by Darius MarderThe Christophers directed by Steven SoderberghClose directed by Lukas DhontPast Lives directed by Celine SongDune directed by Denis VillenueveIncendies directed by Denis Villenueve"The Last Day Of Byron Bray" directed by Michael Borrelli"Anitya" directed by Radha Mehta (forthcoming)Follow Radha on Instagram @radhamehta.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Whoopee! I'm joined by Dan Pal who writes the PalCinema, Television, & Music newsletter, and we talk about how the film feels more like a collection of skits rather than it's ultimate form, some very problematic racial portrayals, and the legacy of some of the music that came out of this film and the preceding stage production. You can watch Whoopee! on YouTube for free and be sure to check out Dan's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Soup to Nuts directed by Benjamin StoloffThe King of Jazz directed by John Murray AndersonThe Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerFlying Down to Rio directed by Thornton FreelandThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingKid Boots directed by Frank TuttleThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandThe Fabulous Baker Boys directed by Steve KlovesAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestonePeter Pan directed by Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske and Clyde GeronimiEveryone Says I Love You directed by Woody AllenOther referenced topics:The Beverly Hillbillies (series)Film Daily reviewVariety reviewDanny Reid on pre-code.com"Makin' Whoopee" scene from The Fabulous Baker BoysSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, Suzanne Ferriss, author of the new book, Greta Gerwig: Filmmaker makes a return to the podcast following her first appearance almost three years ago.Listen to hear about the central theme of fashion and how the word "fashion" can come to have multiple meanings, why Gerwig (and other female directors) are more often recognized as writers than directors, and Gerwig's preference to be referred to as a "realizer" of films and the collaboration inherent in that term.Books mentioned in this episode include:Greta Gerwig: Filmmaker by Suzanne FerrissThe Antidote by Karen RussellWhen the Going Was Good: An Editor's Adventures During the Last Golden Age of Magazines by Grayden CarterThe Big Goodbye by Sam WassonFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Lost in Translation directed by Sofia CoppolaLittle Women directed by Greta GerwigLady Bird directed by Greta GerwigBarbie directed by Greta GerwigNarnia: The Magician's Nephew directed by Greta Gerwig (forthcoming on Netflix)Father Mother Sister Brother directed by Jim JarmuschBlue Moon directed by Richard LinklaterOne Battle After Another directed by Paul Thomas AndersonNouvelle Vague directed by Richard LinklaterSomewhere directed by Sofia CoppolaPsycho directed by Alfred HitchcockThe Shining directed by Stanley KubrickThe Grand Budapest Hotel directed by Wes AndersonYou can follow Suzanne on Instagram @suzanneferriss and visit her website at suzanneferriss.com.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Laughter. I'm joined by Beth Lisogorsky who writes the You Need to Watch This newsletter, and we talk about the wild mess of relationships we see on screen, an ending that doesn't clearly wrap things up in a nice little bow, and the distinct lack of anything to truly laugh about in this film. You can watch Laughter on YouTube for free and be sure to check out Beth's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingRaffles directed by Harry d'Abbadie d'Arrast and George FitzmauriceThe Gold Rush directed by Charlie ChaplinWings directed by William A. Wellman and Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastThe Philadelphia Story directed by George CukorThe Devil's Holiday directed by Edmund GouldingDr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde directed by Rouben MamoulianThe Best Years of Our Lives directed by William WylerThe Lady from Shanghai directed by Orson WellesRebecca directed by Alfred HitchcockIt's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank CapraIt Happened One Night directed by Frank CapraOther referenced topics:The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldBlondie (comic strip)Jonathan Rosenbaum's critiqueJosé Arroyo writing on Notes on Film Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Ray Morton, author of the book, King Kong: The History of a Movie Icon –Revised and Updated Edition.Listen to hear about why King Kong has endured in popular culture for nearly a century, what the future of King Kong may look like, and Ray's own King Kong sculpture made out of snow.Books mentioned in this episode include:King Kong: The History of a Movie Icon –Revised and Updated Edition by Ray MortonFinal Cut: Art, Money, and Ego in the Making of Heaven's Gate, the Film that Sank United Artists – A Witty Insider Account of Epic Hollywood Disaster and Human Absurdity by Steven BachFever: The Complete History of Saturday Night Fever by Margo DonohueSonny Boy by Al PacinoFay Wray and Robert Riskin: A Hollywood Memoir by Victoria RiskinFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:King Kong (1933) directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. SchoedsackKing Kong (1976) directed by John GuillerminKing Kong (2005) directed by Peter JacksonKong: Skull Island directed by Jordan Vogt-RobertsGodzilla vs. Kong directed by Adam WingardGodzilla x Kong: The New Empire directed by Adam WingardSkull Island (series)Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (series)Close Encounters of the Third Kind directed by Steven SpielbergLocal Hero directed by Bill ForsythThe Apartment directed by Billy WilderJames Bond (series)Superman, The Movie directed by Richard DonnerYou can follow Ray on Instagram @raymorton1 and you can find his website at raymorton.com.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Vanessa Esteves, director of the short film "Christopher & the Bug," a heartwarming animated short about a reclusive owl whose solitary world is upended by an unexpected visitor, evolving into a touching story about loneliness, empathy, and the courage to connect.Listen to hear about the origin of the story in her own experience, the challenge of finding the balance between animal and human in animation, and the storybook feel of the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Correspondent by Virginia EvansThe Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn BarnesFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Christopher & the Bug" directed by Vanessa Esteves and Kevin Micallef"How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" directed by Chuck JonesStar Wars directed by George LucasWonderboys directed by Curtis HansonToy Story directed by John LasseterBack to the Future directed by Robert ZemeckisUncle Buck directed by John Hughes"We Were Here" directed by Pranav BhasinFollow the film on Instagram @christopherandthebug and Vanessa @vanesteves_animation. You can also check out the film's website at www.addthedog.com/catb.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Holiday. I'm joined by Swabreen Bakr who writes the Anti-Brain Rot newsletter, and we talk about the variations between the play, this version of the film and the 1938 film adaptation, the strategies the Seton children have learned in dealing with their father, and an exploration of the difference between various characters and their relationship to wealth. You can watch Romance on YouTube or Tubi for free or rent it on Amazon Prime, and be sure to check out Swabreen's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Holiday (1938 version) directed by George CukorThe Materialists directed by Celine SongThe Philadelphia Story directed by George CukorLove Story directed by Arthur HillerOther referenced topics:Holiday (play) by Philip BarryThe Philadelphia Story (play) by Philip BarryThe New Masses reviewErin Snyder writing on Mainlining Christmas.comJ. B. Kaufman writing on jbkaufman.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Paul Fischer, author of the new book, The Last Kings of Hollywood: Coppola, Lucas, Spielberg―and the Battle for the Soul of American Cinema.Listen to hear about tackling three of the titans of the film industry, how each of his three protagonists changed filmmaking in their own way, and some of the key contributors that helped influence these three men through their journey over the last 60 years.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Last Kings of Hollywood: Coppola, Lucas, Spielberg―and the Battle for the Soul of American Cinema by Paul FischerWhat Makes Sammy Run? by Budd SchulbergThe Director by Daniel KehlmannFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:The Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaJaws directed by Steven SpielbergStar Wars directed by George LucasAvatar directed by James CameronRaging Bull directed by Martin ScorseseThe 400 Blows directed by François TruffautClose Encounters of the Third Kind directed by Steven SpielbergYou can find Paul's website at www.paulfischerauthor.com and follow him on Instagram @pfischerbooks.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is the beginning of my conversations about the films nominated at the 4th Academy Awards. I'm joined by Kevin Pettit who writes the See You at the Movies newsletter and we break down some of the history of the 4th Academy Awards, a minor change to the writing categories, and all of the nominees.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the news episodes delivered to your device every Friday from now through early September 2026 and if you want to be a guest for a film from the 5th Academy Awards, send me a message replying to this episode and let me know you're interested.Nominees of the 4th Academy Awards (linked films will take you to where you can watch the film online as of the recording of this episode):HolidayThe Dawn PatrolLaughterWhoopee!The Doorway to HellMoroccoJust ImagineMin and BillThe Royal Family of BroadwayThe Criminal CodeLittle CaesarTrader HornCimarronTabuEast LynneThe Front PageSkippyThe Public EnemySvengaliA Free SoulSmart MoneyCheck out Oscar Wars by Michael Schulman that Kevin mentioned in the episode.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is a special between Oscars conversation about the 1922 film Nosferatu. This was another suggestion from my son Joshua who came on last year between seasons to talk about The General with me and is another classic film that came along too early to be recognized by The Academy.Listen to hear about some of the early the visual effects the film used quite effectively, the stark reality of certain German actors in the 1930s, and how this film has served as the basis for vampire films for over a century. Don't forget to check out the film for yourself on YouTube, Amazon Prime, or buy a copy of the remastered Kino Lorber disc for your collection.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Nosferatu the Vampyre directed by Werner HerzogNosferatu (2024) directed by Robert EggersThe Cabinet of Dr. Caligari directed by Robert WieneTwilight directed by Catherine HardwickeSinners directed by Ryan CooglerBram Stoker's Dracula directed by Francis Ford CoppolaOther referenced topics:Dracula by Bram StokerVampire in the Garden (series)Variety reviewstevepulaski.com reviewNosferatu episode on the Dead Meat YouTube channelSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Philip Clyde-Smith and Eliza Power, director and writer of the short film "A Hand to Hold." The film is a darkly funny body horror look at love and dealing with loss.Listen to hear about the single day writing process, the tricky balancing act between comedy and grotesque horror, and some advice to directors when casting a film.Books mentioned in this episode include:A Beginner's Guide to Dying by Simon BoasDracula by Bram StokerTender is the Flesh by Agustina BazterricaLilyFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"A Hand to Hold" directed by Philip Clyde-SmithThe Young Offenders (series)Possession directed by Andrzej ŻuławskiKinski: My Best Fiend directed by Werner HerzogFright Night directed by Tom HollandThe Exorcist directed by William FriedkinThe Goonies directed by Richard DonnerGhostbusters directed by Ivan ReitmanThe Good, the Bad and the Ugly directed by Clint EastwoodThe Lord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonMary Poppins directed by Robert StevensonAmerican Psycho directed by Mary HarronThe Big Lebowski directed by Joel CoenDonny Darko directed by Richard KellyFollow the film on Instagram @ahandtoholdfilm, Philip @philipclydesmith, and Eliza @mselizapower.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is a special between Oscars conversation about the 1933 film King Kong. Podcast regular Kevin Pettit from the See You At The Movies newsletter recommended this film and even though it's out of order, the film was never nominated for an Oscar which made it a perfect candidate to fill in some of these in between weeks.Kevin had a chance to watch King Kong on the big screen recently, but you can check out some lesser quality prints online or buy a copy for your collection, and be sure to check out Kevin's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:King Kong directed by Peter JacksonKong: Skull Island directed by Jordan Vogt-RobertsJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergChang: A Drama of the Wilderness directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack and Merian C. CooperForrest Gump directed by Robert ZemeckisThe Lord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonStar Wars directed by George LucasGodzilla (film series)The Hobbit directed by Peter JacksonRoom directed by Leonard AbrahamsonE.T. The Extra-Terrestrial directed by Steven SpielbergInglourious Basterds directed by Quentin TarantinoJaws directed by Steven SpielbergOther referenced topics:The Soundtrack Show Podcast Interview with David Farmer (Part 1, Part 2)The Lost World (novel) by Arthur Conan DoyleMotion Picture Herald reviewChicago Tribune reviewFilm Daily reviewRoger Ebert reviewSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Blake Sherwyn, director of the short film "Chet Bond: License to Chill," a hilarious mockumentary about James Bond's nepobaby son.Listen to hear about he identified a gap in the market for action comedy mockumentaries, the difficulty of finding the right actors to play the supporting roles in the film, and an on set incident that could have been much worse.Books mentioned in this episode include:Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book On Novel Writing You'll Ever Need by Jessica BrodyFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Chet Bond: License to Chill" directed by Blake Sherwyn"Lil Brick Answers the Web's Most Searched Questions" directed by Blake SherwynJames Bond franchiseThe Social Network directed by David FincherThe Hangover directed by Todd PhillipsEverybody Wants Some directed by Richard LinklaterMarty Supreme directed by Josh SafdieBilly Madison directed by Tamra DavisFollow Blake on Instagram @blakesherwynofficial.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe 98th Academy Awards are over and today I'm joined by Beth Lisogorsky from the You Need To Watch This! 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:Whatever Nevermind newsletterSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday is the final episode in my preview of the 98th Academy Awards where I will have broken down every category over the course of this week. Today I am joined by Enrico Banson from the Director's Notes newsletter, Janelle Lathrop from the Right Now, You Like Me newsletter, and Kevin Pettit from the See You At the Movies 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 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 Picture:BugoniaF1FrankensteinHamnetMarty SupremeOne Battle After AnotherThe Secret AgentSentimental ValueSinnersTrain DreamsOther media mentioned in this episode include:Killing of the Sacred Deer directed by Yorgos LanthimosKinds of Kindness directed by Yorgos LanthimosPoor Things directed by Yorgos LanthimosThe Favourite directed by Yorgos LanthimosEddington directed by Ari AsterWeapons directed by Zach CreggerTop Gun: Maverick directed by Joseph KosinskiAvatar: Fire and Ash directed by James CameronCrimson Peak directed by Guillermo del ToroHellboy directed by Guillermo del ToroGuillermo del Toro's Pinocchio directed by Guillermo del Toro and Mark GustafsonHamlet by William ShakespeareBalls of Fury directed by Robert Ben GarantGood Time directed by Ben Safdie and Joshua SafdieUncut Gems directed by Ben Safdie and Joshua SafdieThere Will Be Blood directed by Paul Thomas AndersonThe Battle of Algiers directed by Gillo PotecorvoHard Eight directed by Paul Thomas AndersonMagnolia directed by Paul Thomas AndersonBoogie Nights directed by Paul Thomas AndersonI'm Still Here directed by Walter SallesThe Conversation directed by Francis Ford CoppolaThe Worst Person in the World directed by Joachim TrierThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingThe Thin Red Line directed by Terrence MalickThe Tree of Life directed by Terrence MalickMagellan directed by Lav DiazNo Other Choice directed by Park Chan-wookSirât directed by Oliver LaxeCaught By the Tides directed by Jia ZhangkeOn Becoming a Guinea Fowl directed by Rungano NyoniSorry, Baby directed by Eva VictorWake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery directed by Rian JohnsonSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday is the third of a five episode preview of the 98th Academy Awards where I have been breaking down every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Swabreen Bakr from the Anti-Brain Rot newsletter and Maria Banson from the Brunello Bombshell newsletter to break down all four acting categories, both screenplay categories, Best Director and the new Best Casting category. 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:Blue MoonIt Was Just an AccidentMarty SupremeSentimental ValueSinnersBest Adapted Screenplay:BugoniaFrankensteinHamnetOne Battle After AnotherTrain DreamsBest Casting:HamnetMarty SupremeOne Battle After AnotherThe Secret AgentSinnersBest Supporting Actor:Benicio Del Toro – One Battle After Another as Sergio St. CarlosJacob Elordi – Frankenstein as The CreatureDelroy Lindo – Sinners as Delta SlimSean Penn – One Battle After Another as Steven J. LockjawStellan Skarsgård – Sentimental Value as Gustav BorgBest Supporting Actress:Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value as Rachel KempInga Ibsdotter Lilleaas – Sentimental Value as Agnes BorgAmy Madigan – Weapons as GladysWunmi Mosaku – Sinners as AnnieTeyana Taylor – One Battle After Another as Perfidia Beverly HillsBest Actress:Jessie Buckley – Hamnet as Agnes ShakespeareRose Byrne – If I Had Legs I'd Kick You as LindaKate Hudson – Song Sung Blue as Claire CartwrightRenate Reinsve – Sentimental Value as Nora BorgEmma Stone – Bugonia as Michelle FullerBest Actor:Timothée Chalamet – Marty Supreme as Marty MauserLeonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another as Bob FergusonEthan Hawke – Blue Moon as Lorenz HartMichael B. Jordan – Sinners as Smoke and StackWagner Moura – The Secret Agent as Marcelo AlvesBest Director:Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After AnotherRyan Coogler – SinnersJosh Safdie – Marty SupremeJoachim Trier – Sentimental ValueCloé Zhao – HamnetOther media mentioned in this episode include:Casablanca directed by Michael CurtizJay Kelly directed by Noah BaumbachSilence of the Lambs directed by Jonathan DemmeGet Out directed by Jordan PeeleParasite directed by Bong Joon-hoWake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery directed by RiaSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday is the third of a five episode preview of the 98th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Shawna Carroll from the Notes From Post newsletter 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:“Butterfly”“Forevergreen”“The Girl Who Cried Pearls” (podcast interview)“Retirement Plan” (podcast interview)“The Three Sisters”Best Live Action Short Film:“Butcher's Stain”“A Friend of Dorothy”“Jane Austen's Period Drama” (podcast interview)“The Singers” (podcast interview)“Two People Exchanging Saliva”Best Documentary Short Film:“All the Empty Rooms”“Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud”“Children No More: “Were and Are Gone””“The Devil Is Busy”“Perfectly a Strangeness”Other films mentioned in this episode include:Harry Potter (film series)"The Only Girl in the Orchestra" directed by Molly O'Brien"Instruments of a Beating Heart" directed by Ema Ryan Yamazaki"Death by Numbers" directed by Kim A. Snyder"I Am Ready, Warden" directed by Smriti Mundhra"Incident" directed by Bill MorrisonEO directed by Jerzy SkolimowskiSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday is the second of five episode previewing the 98th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Today I am joined by Dan Pal from the PalCinema, Television, and Music 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 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:ArcoElioKPop Demon HuntersLittle Amélie or the Character of RainZootopia 2Best International Feature:The Secret Agent (Brazil)It Was Just an Accident (France)Sentimental Value (Norway)Sirât (Spain)The Voice of Hind Rajab (Tunisia)Best Documentary Feature:The Alabama SolutionCome See Me in the Good LightCutting through RocksMr. Nobody against PutinThe Perfect NeighborBest Original Score:BugoniaFrankensteinHamnetOne Battle after AnotherSinnersBest Original Song:“Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless“Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters“I Lied To You” from Sinners“Sweet Dreams Of Joy” from Viva Verdi!“Train Dreams” from Train DreamsOther films mentioned in this episode include:Flow directed by Gints ZilbalodisZootopia directed by Rich Moore and Byron HowardToy Story 3 directed by Lee UnkrichRango directed by Gore VerbinskiBrave directed by Brenda Chapman and Mark AndrewsFrozen directed by Jennifer Lee and Chris BuckBig Hero 6 directed by Don Hall and Chris WilliamsInside Out directed by Pete DocterCoco directed by Adrian Molina and Lee UnkrichSpider-Man: Into the Spiderverse directed by Peter Ramsey, Bob Persichetti, and Rodney RothmanGuillermo del Toro's Pinocchio directed by Guillermo del Toro and Mark GustafsonThe Boy and the Heron directed by Hayao MiyazakiDemon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba The Movie: Infinity Castle directed by Haruo SotozakiChainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc directed by Tatsuya YoshiharaLittle Miss Sunshine directed by Valerie Faris and Jonathan DaytonI'm Still Here directed by Walter SallesParasite directed by Bong Joon HoNavalny directed by Daniel Roher20 Days in Mariupol directed by Mstyslav ChernovAmerican Symphony directed by Matthew HeinemanStar Wars directed by George LucasJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergPsycho directed by Alfred HitchcockOppenheimer directed by Christopher NolanThe King's Speech directed by Tom HooperOther media mentioned in this episode include:"I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Diane Warren, performed by Aerosmith"How Do I Live Without You" by Diane Warren, performed by Leann Rimes or Tricia YearwoodSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday's is the first of a five episode preview of the 98th Academy Awards where I will be breaking down each and every category throughout the week. Helping me through that process is Murray Mintz from the CineVibez Fanzine newsletter and Rob Thomas from the Not That Rob Thomas newsletter and we 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:F1FrankensteinOne Battle after AnotherSinnersSirâtBest Production Design:FrankensteinHamnetMarty SupremeOne Battle after AnotherSinnersBest Cinematography:FrankensteinMarty SupremeOne Battle after AnotherSinnersTrain DreamsBest Makeup and Hairstyling:FrankensteinKokuhoSinnersThe Smashing MachineThe Ugly StepsisterBest Costume Design:Avatar: Fire and AshFrankensteinHamnetMarty SupremeSinnersBest Film Editing:F1Marty SupremeOne Battle After AnotherSentimental ValueSinnersBest Visual Effects:Avatar: Fire and AshF1Jurassic World RebirthThe Lost BusSinnersOther topics mentioned in this episode include:Formula 1: Drive to Survive (series)Without Limits directed by Robert TowneSinners exhibit at Warner Bros. Studio TourJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergJurassic World directed by Colin TrevorrowAvatar directed by James CameronAvatar: The Way of Water directed by James CameronTitanic directed by James CameronTerminator 2: Judgement Day directed by James CameronSupport the show

Send a textToday's episode is my recap of everything from the third Academy Awards back in late 1930. I recap all 25 films I watched for this season, talk about the winners of each category and more. If you missed any of the episodes discussing specific films, you can go back in this feed or just tap on the links below.3.72-Kicking Off the 3rd Oscars with Beth Lisogorsky3.74-Bulldog Drummond with Gareth Bradwick3.76-Hallelujah with Jonathan Hammond3.78-Disraeli with Jeff Kramer3.80-The Trespasser with Kevin Pettit3.82-Condemned with Luis Mendez3.84-The Love Parade with Enrico Banson3.86-Sally with Dan Pal3.88-Their Own Desire with Maria Banson3.90-The Rogue Song with Helen Cox3.92-Street of Chance with Amanda Kusek3.94-The Green Goddess with Murray Mintz3.96-The Vagabond King with Rebecca Deniston3.98-Anna Christie with Swabreen Bakr3.100-Sarah and Son with Matthew Carlson3.102-King of Jazz with Matthew Brady3.104-The Divorcee with Beth Lisogorsky4.2-All Quiet on the Western Front with Kyle Wilson4.4-The Big Pond with James Kreul4.6-The Devil's Holiday with John DiLeo4.9-Song of the Flame with Taylor Lewis4.11-Hell's Angels with Vicki Lesley4.13-With Byrd at the South Pole with Kevin Pettit4.15-The Big House with Lewis Beer4.17-Raffles with Madison Hatfield4.19-Romance with Janelle LathropNext week will feature five episodes previewing the 98th Academy Awards before a couple of special episodes later in March. Then I'll kick off the films of the 4th Academy Awards in early April. And if you want to be a guest for an upcoming episode of the podcast and help me discuss a future Oscar nominated film, send me a message replying to this episode. I would love to add your voice to my list of guests for the show.Support the show

Send a textIn today's episode, I interview Alejandro Vilpa, creator of the new streaming platform Vilpamax. The service is dedicated to showcasing short films from emerging filmmakers and is launched in early 2026.Listen to hear about how Alejandro decided to create the platform when he identified a gap in the marketplace, using films from acclaimed festivals and Oscar nominees to bring people to the service and introduce them to other films, and what the plans are for the future.Books mentioned in this episode include:Invisible by Paul AusterFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Undertone of David Jansen" directed by Alejandro Vilpa"Bienvenidos a Los Angeles" directed by Lisa Cole"The Mozart of Pickpockets" directed by Philippe Pollet-Villard"The Girl Who Cried Pearls" directed by Maciek Szczerbowski and Chris LavisMemento directed by Christopher NolanEat Pray Love directed by Ryan MurphyAtonement directed by Joe WrightAlice in Wonderland directed by Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jaxon, and Hamilton LuskeFollow Alejandro on Instagram @alejandrovilpa and check out the service for yourself at vilpamax.com as well as subscribe to the YouTube channel. You can also check out his work at vilpafilms.com and follow Vilpa Films on Instagram @vilpafilms.If you want to submit a film to Vilpamax for consideration, email business@vilpafilms.com and include a screener link.Support the show

Send a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Romance. I'm joined by Janelle Lathrop who writes the Right Now, You Like Me newsletter, and we talk about confusing bits of plot development, an extremely long middle scene of the film, and the distinct lack of romance in a film titled Romance.You can watch Romance on Tubi or grab a copy of the film on DVD for yourself, and be sure to check out Janelle's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:It Happened One Night directed by Frank CapraAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis Milestone"Fiddlesticks" directed by Ub IwerksAnna Christie directed by Clarence BrownAnna Karenina directed by Clarence BrownNational Velvet directed by Clarence BrownGrand Hotel directed by Edmund GouldingMoulin Rouge! directed by Baz LuhrmannThe Barretts of Wimpole Street directed by Sidney FranklinJuror #2 directed by Clint EastwoodTwelve Angry Men directed by Sidney LumetOther referenced topics:Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourtMad Men (series)Romance (play) by Edward SheldonReview in Harrison's ReportsReview in Motion Picture NewsReview in The New York TimesReview in Picture Play MagazineDanny Reid's review on pre-code.comSupport the show

Send a textIn today's episode, I interview Nick Spake, author of the new book series, Bright and Shiny: A History of Animation at Award Shows.Listen to hear about how he approached breaking the book up from one long volume into the three separate volumes we have today, the long history of animation and how it permeates nearly every film made today, and what the future or animation might hold in general and when it comes to awards recognition.Books mentioned in this episode include:Bright and Shiny: A History of Animation at Award Shows (Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3) by Nick SpakeAfter Disney: Toil, Trouble, and the Transformation of America's Favorite Media Company by Neil O'BrienFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:The Lion King directed by Roger Allers and Rob MinkoffUp directed by Pete DocterBeauty and the Beast directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk WiseFlow directed by Gints ZilbalodisThe Ten Commandments directed by Cecil B. DeMilleBen-Hur directed by William WylerJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergTron directed by Steven LisbergerKPop Demon Hunters directed by "Butterfly" directed by Florence Miailhe"Retirement Plan" directed by John Kelly"The Girl Who Cried Pearls" directed by Chris Lavis & Maciek Szczerbowski"Forevergreen" directed by Nathan Engelhardt & Jeremy Spears"The Three Sisters" directed by Konstantin BronzitE. T. The Extraterrestrial directed by Steven SpielbergAmerican Beauty directed by Sam MendesThe Empire Strikes Back directed by Irvin KershnerPulp Fiction directed by Quentin TarantinoMy Dinner with Andre directed by Louis MalleThe Big Lebowski directed by Joel CoenFollow Nick on Instagram @cartooncontender and visit his website cartooncontender.com for more great content about animation.Support the show

Send a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Raffles. I'm joined by Madison Hatfield film writer and director who previously came on the podcast in 2025 to talk with me about her film "I Could Dom." In today's episode we talk about the now standard trope of pulling "one last job" in heist films, some incredible characters that populate the film, and why a big sports star would need to moonlight as a jewel thief in the first place.You can watch Raffles on YouTube or Tubi, and be sure to check out "I Could Dom", follow her on Instagram @madhat31, and head to Madison's website to see more of her work. Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Big House directed by George HillJames Bond (film series)Laughter directed by Harry d'Abbadie d'ArrastA Star is Born directed by William A. WellmanOther referenced topics:Sherlock Holmes (book series) by Arthur Conan DoyleThe Amateur Cracksman (novel) by E. W. HornbugReview on pre-code.comSupport the show

Send a textToday I'm replaying an episode from earlier this winter, my interview with Christine La Monte, producer of two recent documentaries, Ai Weiwei's Turandot and the Oscar shortlisted Viva Verdi!. Viva Verdi! is nominated for Best Original Song at the 98th Academy Awards and the film is available to stream on jolt.film today!Books mentioned in this episode include:The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley HellerCry to Heaven by Anne RiceTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Crying Heart Tattoo by David Lozell MartinThe Samurai's Garden by Gail TsukiyamaThe Goldfinch by Donna TarttLet's Call the Whole Thing Off directed by Elizabeth GuestFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Ai Weiwei's Turandot directed by Maxim DereviankoViva Verdi! directed by Yvo nne RussoLa Traviata directed by Franco ZeffirelliChildren of the River directed by Federico Rodelli (forthcoming)The Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaBlack Orpheus directed by Marcel CamusOnce Upon a Time in America directed by Sergio LeoneDances With Wolves directed by Kevin CostnerHoliday directed by George CukorThe Night Manager (series)Something's Gotta Give directed by Nancy MeyersThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (series)Other things mentioned in this episode:“Sweet Dreams of Joy“ by Nicholas PikeFollow Viva Verdi! on Instagram @vivaverdithefilm and check out the websites for both films at aiweiweisturandotfilm.com and vivaverdithefilm.com. And don't forget to check out Viva Verdi! on jolt.film ahead of the 98th Academy Awards.Support the show

Send a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Big House. I'm joined by Lewis Beer who writes the Slow Moving Pictures newsletter, and we talk about the key themes that weave throughout the film, how the writing of the film helps propel the narrative forward, and some of the real life prisoners and prison personnel that inspired characters in the film. You can watch The Big House on YouTube or Tubi or grab a copy of the film on DVD for yourself, and be sure to check out Lewis's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Letter directed by Jean De LimurA Woman Under the Influence directed by John CassavetesThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneRoofman directed by Derek CianfranceMin and Bill directed by George HillAlibi directed by Roland WestThe Case of Sergeant Grischa directed by Herbert Brenon (lost film)Red-Headed Woman directed by Jack ConwayThe Champ directed by King VidorAnna Christie directed by Clarence BrownThe Big Parade directed by King VidorThe Flying Fleet directed by George HillOther referenced topics:"Frances Marion: Hollywood's Favourite Storyteller""The Woman Who Invented the Hollywood Screenwriter" by Pamela HutchinsonOff With Their Heads: A Serio-Comic Tale of Hollywood by Frances MarionWithout Lying Down: Frances Marion and the Powerful Women of Early Hollywood by Cari Beauchamp"Frances Marion: Censorship and the Screenwriter in Hollywood, 1929-1931" by Leslie Kreiner WilsonPrison Movies: Cinema Behind Bars by Kevin KehrwaldNew York Times review by Morduant Hall"Life in and out of a Penitentiary" by John C. MosherFrancis Marion receiving her Oscar for Best WritingSupport the show

Send a textToday's episode is a re-air of portions of three interviews I did with several of this year's Oscar nominated filmmakers. You'll hear from Julia Aks and Steve Pinder, directors of the film "Jane Austen's Period Drama," John Kelly from "Retirement Plan," and Sam Davis of "The Singers." Full episodes are available at the links below along with over 100 other interviews with filmmakers, authors, and more.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film With Byrd at the South Pole. I'm joined by Kevin Pettit who writes the See You At the Movies newsletter, and we talk about how the film is essentially a silent film in a world that has fully transitioned to talkies, how the editing of the film made a huge difference on the feel of what we see on screen, and the spectacular images that the cinematographers brought back that led to the film winning Best Cinematography. You can watch With Byrd at the South Pole on YouTube or grab a copy of the film on DVD for yourself, and be sure to check out Kevin's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Notebook directed by Nick CassavetesA Woman Under the Influence directed by John CassavetesFerris Bueller's Day Off directed by John HughesThe Thing directed by John CarpenterThe Empire Strikes Back directed by Irvin KershnerThe Lighthouse directed by Robert EggersThere Will Be Blood directed by Paul Thomas AndersonKing Kong (1933) directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. SchoedsackWings directed by William A. WellmanMarty Supreme directed by Josh SafdieKing Kong (1976) directed by John GuillerminCitizen Kane directed by Orson WellesBowling for Columbine directed by Michael MooreThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneOther referenced topics:The Terror (series)Movie scrapbook at the oDartmouth College archivesSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski, directors of the Oscar-nominated short film "The Girl Who Cried Pearls." The film is a wonderful lesson in the true value of a thing and is currently one of the five nominees for Best Animated Short Film at the 98th Academy Awards.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the film that came from their previous film collaboration, the unique approach the duo took in creating the characters for the film, and how they changed the look of one of their puppets based on the casting process.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Book of Disquiet by Fernando PessoaNemesis by Agatha ChristieFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Girl Who Cried Pearls" directed by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski"Madame Tutli-Putli" directed by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski"Higglety Pigglety Pop! or There Must Be More to Life" directed by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski"Cochemare" directed by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski"21-87" directed by Arthur LipsettStar Wars directed by George Lucas"Street of Crocodiles" directed by Timothy Quay and Stephen Quay"When the Day Breaks" directed by Amanda Forbis and Wendy TilbyThe Third Man directed by Carol ReedBall of Fire directed by Howard HawksThe Pink Panther directed by Blake EdwardsFollow Chris and Maciek's production company on Instagram @clydehenryproductions.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Hell's Angels. I'm joined by Vicki Lesley who writes the Vicki Lesley is...Documental newsletter, and we talk about the beautiful cinematographic moments that earned the film a Best Cinematography nomination, the realities of being called home from abroad to fight for your country in wartime, and an incredible scene of self-sacrifice that came as quite a surprise when we watched the film. You can watch Hell's Angels on YouTube, Amazon Prime, or Tubi or grab a copy of the brand new Criterion 4K release from last November, and be sure to check out Vicki's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:All Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis Milestone Top Gun: Maverick directed by Joseph KosinskiThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandWings directed by William A. WellmanThe Aviator directed by Martin ScorseseIron Man directed by Jon FavreauDark Knight Trilogy directed by Christopher NolanThe Dawn Patrol directed by Howard HawksThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschCity Lights directed by Charlie ChaplinThe Public Enemy directed by William A. WellmanScarface (1932) directed by Howard HawksOther referenced topics:Hell's Angels (1930) on TCM by Rob NixonOuttakes from the recent Criterion release of the filmToday is Tonight (novel) by Jean HarlowReview on The Tinseltown TwinsSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Luke Angus, director of the animated short film "Solstice." The film tells a story of loss and grief through the eyes of a lonely Inuit.Listen to hear about how he started from the end of the story and worked backward, the challenges of getting certain visual elements just right, and a unique approach to scoring the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:Demon Copperhead by Barbara KingsolverI Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline HarpmanOrbital by Samantha HarveyFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Solstice" directed by Luke Angus"Alienated" directed by Luke AngusArrival directed by Denis VillenueveInterstellar directed by Christopher NolanToy Story directed by John LasseterJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergParasite directed by Bong Joon-hoEverything Everywhere All at Once directed by Dan Kwan and Daniel ScheinertRatatouille directed by Brad BirdThe Lord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonThe Truman Show directed by Peter Weir"Redivider" directed by Luke Angus (forthcoming)Follow Luke on Instagram @lukeangusanimator and check out his YouTube channel including a behind the scenes video about "Solstice." You can also find more information on his website angusarts.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Song of the Flame. I'm joined by Taylor Lewis who writes the Luz Films newsletter, and we talk about how difficult it is to evaluate a film based on just the partial audio, how a film can take on a different focus when large parts are missing, and some music in the film that is incredibly recognizable even today. You can listen to the surviving audio of Song of the Flame on YouTube and be sure to check out Taylor's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Great Escape directed by John SturgesBullitt directed by Peter YatesMilk directed by Gus Van SantThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandGlorious Betsy directed by Alan CroslandDon Juan directed by Alan CroslandKing of Jazz directed by John Murray Anderson"Sinkin' in the Bathtub" directed by Hugh Harman and Rudolf IsingThe Big House directed by George HillOther referenced topics:www.georgegroves.org.ukNew York Times reviewPhotoplay Magazine reviewSupport the show

Send us a textThe nominees for the 98th 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.You can check out the full list of nominees on my Substack newsletter at theoscarproject.substack.com. While you're there, be sure to subscribe to the newsletter so you can get all the latest Oscar news and information and be notified of when you can submit your predictions in this year's Oscar Prediction Contest. If you win, you will have the opportunity to be a guest on this very podcast!Support the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Simon Panay, director of the short film "The Boy With White Skin." The film explores the world of artisanal gold mines in West Africa and the beliefs and superstitions the miners have.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the film in some of Simon's previous documentary work, the challenge of finding an albino child actor to fill the film's lead role, and choosing to shoot much of the film in almost complete darkness.Books mentioned in this episode include:Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand CélineFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Boy With White Skin" directed by Simon PanayTitanic directed by James CameronApocalypse Now directed by Francis Ford CoppolaFitzcarraldo directed by Werner HerzogBetter Call Saul (series)Out of Africa directed by Sydney PollackFollow Simon on Instagram @simonpanay and check out the film's website at theboywithwhiteskin.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Devil's Holiday. I'm joined by John DiLeo who previously appeared on the podcast talking about his latest book, Not Even Nominated, and we talk about several instances of overreactions throughout the film, how several scenes feel very out of place in the film, and how much Nancy Carroll drives the film with her performance.You can watch The Devil's Holiday online on YouTube and be sure to check out John's author page on Amazon.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Ferris Bueller's Day Off directed by John HughesThe Trespasser directed by Edmund GouldingFollow Through directed by Laurence Schwab and Lloyd CorriganMen Must Fight directed by Edgar SelwynAn American Tragedy directed by Josef von SternbergA Place in the Sun directed by George StevensDinner at Eight directed by George CukorStolen Heaven directed by George AbbottBroken Lullaby (aka The Man I Killed) directed by Ernst LubitschGone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingLady for a Day directed by Frank CapraWatch on the Rhine directed by Herman ShumlinLittle Women directed by George CukorGreed directed by Erich von StroheimAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneCasablanca directed by Michael CurtizThe Dance of Life directed by John Cromwell and A. Edward SutherlandThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardTheir Own Desire directed by E. Mason HopperAnna Christie directed by Clarence BrownRomance directed by Clarence BrownMorocco directed by Josef von SternbergHot Saturday directed by William A. SeiterDark Victory directed by Edmund GouldingNightmare Alley directed by Edmund GouldingGrand Hotel directed by Edmund GouldingOther referenced topics:Variety reviewFull page advertisement in VarietyBurlesque (play)filmsite.org list of the top films of 1930Cliff Alpertini writing on Immortal EphemSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Christine La Monte, producer of two recent documentaries, Ai Weiwei's Turandot and the Oscar shortlisted Viva Verdi!.Listen to hear about Christine's experience growing up listening to opera, what it was like working with a world renowned artist like Ai Weiwei, and the joy of finding new young filmmakers and helping them express their voice through film.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley HellerCry to Heaven by Anne RiceTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Crying Heart Tattoo by David Lozell MartinThe Samurai's Garden by Gail TsukiyamaThe Goldfinch by Donna TarttLet's Call the Whole Thing Off directed by Elizabeth GuestFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Ai Weiwei's Turandot directed by Maxim DereviankoViva Verdi! directed by Yvo nne RussoLa Traviata directed by Franco ZeffirelliChildren of the River directed by Federico Rodelli (forthcoming)The Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaBlack Orpheus directed by Marcel CamusOnce Upon a Time in America directed by Sergio LeoneDances With Wolves directed by Kevin CostnerHoliday directed by George CukorThe Night Manager (series)Something's Gotta Give directed by Nancy MeyersThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (series)Other things mentioned in this episode:"Sweet Dreams of Joy" by Nicholas PikeFollow Viva Verdi! on Instagram @vivaverdithefilm and check out the websites for both films at aiweiweisturandotfilm.com and vivaverdithefilm.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Big Pond. I'm joined by James Kreul from the Moving Image Madison newsletter and we talk about the comparison between this and the other recent Maurice Chevalier films covered on the podcast (The Love Parade), how a film can achieve romance between two characters that don't appear on screen together for most of the movie, and how efficiently the film tells the story in a tight 70-minute runtime.You can watch The Big Pond online on YouTube and be sure to check out James's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Animal Crackers directed by Victor HeermanMonkey Business directed by Norman Z. McLeodAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschOne Hour With You directed by Ernst Lubitsch and George CukorHis Girl Friday directed by Howard HawksDracula (1931) directed by Tod BrowningFrankenstein (1931) directed by James WhaleThe Invisible Man (1933) directed by James WhaleIt Happened One Night directed by Frank CapraDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Green Goddess directed by Alfred E. GreenOther referenced topics:The Big Pond (play) by George Middleton and A. E. ThomasSpongebob Squarepants pilot episodeThe New Movie Magazine reviewAlso be sure to check out the full Lantern Media History website at https://lantern.mediahist.org/.Support the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Jonny Durgan, director of the short film "G.S.W." The film stars Genevieve O'Reilly as a paramedic tasked with helping a gunshot wound victim who might be involved with a school shooting.Listen to hear about why Jonny decided to make a film around this topic at this time, how he was able to land a dream casting choice, and the challenges of shooting a film about medical professionals in just one day and making it feel real and authentic.Books mentioned in this episode include:Fatherland by Robert HarrisThe Man in the High Castle by Philip K. DickFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"G.S.W." directed by Jonny DurganAndor (series)Goldfinger directed by Guy HamiltonEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind directed by Michel GondryTotal Recall directed by Paul VerhoevenChildren of Men directed by Alfonso CuarónThe Dark Knight directed by Christopher NolanStar Wars directed by George LucasIs This Thing On? directed by Bradley CooperA Star is Born directed by Bradley CooperFollow the film on Instagram @gsw_film.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film All Quiet on the Western Front. I'm joined by Kyle Wilson from the Oscar Chaser newsletter and we talk about the challenges of making a film about WWI from the German perspective in the United States, how many of the greatest war movies are about what war does to a person and how they deal with going back to normal life after what they've seen in war, and how this film doesn't shy away from so many of the grisly realities of warfare. You can watch All Quiet on the Western Front online at The Internet Archive, Tubi, or rent it from Amazon, or pick up a DVD copy for your collection. And be sure to check out Kyle's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Talented Mr. Ripley directed by Anthony MinghellaThe English Patient directed by Anthony MinghellaKing Kong (2005) directed by Peter JacksonThe Lord of the Rings (trilogy) directed by Peter JacksonPhiladelphia directed by Jonathan DemmeSilence of the Lambs directed by Jonathan DemmeSaving Private Ryan directed by Steven SpielbergThe Best Years of Our Lives directed by William WylerBand of Brothers (series)The Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Edward BergerTwo Arabian Knights directed by Lewis MilestoneDragnet (series)Gone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingMister Ed (series)Leave it to Beaver (series)Petticoat Junction (series)The Front Page directed by Lewis MilestoneHis Girl Friday directed by Howard HawksRain directed by Lewis MilestoneThe Big House directed by George HillThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschWith Byrd at the South Pole directed by Julian JohnsonOther referenced topics:All Quiet on the Western Front (novel) by Erich Maria RemarqueThe Things They Carried (book) by Tim O'BrienGeorge Abbott's 100th Birthday Tribute at the 1987 Tony AwardsVariety reviewSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is a rundown of all the biggest films (and some not so big) that will be coming out in wide release in 2026. 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.Support the show

Send us a textIt's time for my 2025 podcast year in review where discuss some of the popular episodes from this year. Take a listen to hear clips from my Oscar nominated movie discussions with Beth Lisogorsky, Kevin Pettit, Maria Banson, Jeff Kramer, Enrico Banson, and Amanda Kusek. You'll also hear parts of my interviews with Jonathan Hammond, Madison Hatfield, Aaron Blaise, Tatiana McCabe, Xindi Zhang, Sam and David Cutler-Kreutz, and recent Osar winners Victoria Warmerdam and Trent. You can listen to all the full episodes by going back in this podcast feed and find many more interviews and movie discussions from the past year.Support the show