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Worthy analyzes the storytelling & technical elements of each Academy Award Best Picture winner, in addition to the history of the Oscars and other movies since 1927. The show’s hosts, Ben and Jon, rate each film individually and compare each Best Picture winner from the last 100 years.

Ben Smith and Jon Roberts


    • Mar 25, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 50m AVG DURATION
    • 78 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Worthy

    Kramer vs. Kramer and the 52nd Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 152:38


    The Worthy Boys return with a break down of the divorce-drama, Kramer vs. Kramer. The 1979 Best Picture winner featured harrowing lead performances highlighted by Dustin Hoffman's Best Actor win. Ben and Jon share their thoughts on the film's strong screenplay, simplistic approach and tackling changing social issues allowing the actors shine in the finished film. At the 52nd Academy Awards, Kramer vs. Kramer took home 5 Oscars that night with a powerful speech by Hoffman during his Best Actor win. Tune in to find out what we think about this Best Picture winning film. 

    97th Academy Awards Reactions

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 78:43


    The 97th Academy Awards have arrived, and on this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon dive into their final predictions! They'll break down each category, analyze the tightest races, and debate who they think should win versus who will take home the gold. Is Anora or Conclave the big winner? Does Demi Moore break Jon's heart for Best Actress? And who emerges with the most awards for the night?   Tune in for the full Oscars breakdown!   Think Ben and Jon got it all wrong? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    97th Academy Awards Predictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2025 109:25


    The Oscars are finally here and on this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon will share their predictions for the 97th Academy Awards. They will breakdown the state of each category race, who they think will win and who they would've picked if they had Oscar votes! Is it Anora or Conclave? Does Demi Moore win Jon's heart as Best Actress? Who wins in the Short Film categories?? Tune in and find out on this Oscars Predictions episode.  Why are Ben and Jon wrong on their Oscar takes? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    The Deer Hunter and the 51st Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2025 153:39


    The Worthy Boys are trading their tuxedos for camouflage as we break down one of the most harrowing Best Picture winners—The Deer Hunter! Directed by Michael Cimino and starring Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and Meryl Streep, The Deer Hunter is a haunting exploration of war's psychological toll. From the steel mills of Pennsylvania to the horrors of Vietnam, the film delivers gut-wrenching realism and unforgettable performances. Its infamous Russian roulette sequences remain some of the most intense moments in cinematic history, symbolizing both the chaos of war and its devastating effects. At the 51st Academy Awards, The Deer Hunter won five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor for Christopher Walken. But its win wasn't without controversy—some hailed it as a masterpiece, while others criticized its depiction of the Vietnam War. So, is The Deer Hunter one of the greatest war films ever made? Or is it too emotionally punishing to revisit? Let us know your thoughts!

    Top 10 of 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 117:14


    Welcome to Worthy's Top 10 Films of 2024! From unraveling the mysteries of the Vatican to exploring a troubled marriage to reimagining a horror classic, 2024 showcases the incredible diversity of this year's filmmaking. Together, they prove that cinematic excellence wears many hats—sometimes a cassock, sometimes a fur-lined cloak, and sometimes, well...nothing at all!  The Worthy Boys are discussing 2024's biggest surprises and disappointments, sharing thoughts on movies that soared beyond expectations and those that left us wanting more. From epic sagas to intimate character studies, we're here to reflect on the films that made us laugh, cry, and scream. Of course, we want to hear from you, too! Share your favorite films from 2024 with us on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

    Annie Hall and the 50th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 187:42


    It's the 50th Academy Awards and the 50th episode of Worthy's journey through all the Best Picture winners! Ben and Jon start off the podcast with their own awards, The Worthies, for the best of the Best Picture winners from the 41st to the 50th Academy Awards. The Worthy Boys then dive into the 1977 Best Picture winner, Annie Hall from Woody Allen. Is Annie Hall worthy of the Best Picture award of 1977? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

    Summer 2024 Top 10 Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2024 90:13


    A merc with a mouth, talking emotions, and animated villains ruled the summer box office, but was it enough to keep the industry afloat? Hollywood's strikes and corporate battles continued to reshape the landscape as their ripple effects disrupted the release schedule, with projects delayed as the industry recovered from months of halted production. Amid a wave of delayed releases and schedule reshuffling, did the summer box office live up to expectations?

    Rocky and the 49th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2024 140:34


    The Worthy Boys are getting taped up to fight as we're celebrating the Best Picture of 1976, Rocky!  This film is not just a sports drama but a narrative triumph, brilliantly capturing the underdog spirit of its time. Led by Sylvester Stallone's breakout performance and John G. Avildsen's masterful direction, Rocky stands as a cinematic 70's  milestone. It's an inspiring story that resonates with audiences even today, demonstrating the power of perseverance and hope. Stallone, in a role that has since become legendary, guides us through Rocky Balboa's journey from obscurity to the boxing ring, backed by Bill Conti' soundtrack that underscores the film's emotional depth. This film not only ingrains itself in the hearts of viewers but also marks a pivotal moment for the Academy. In the gritty streets of Philadelphia, Rocky masterfully weaves a tale of resilience that challenges the odds and urges us to dream, to fight, and ultimately, to triumph. The film's impact was undeniable, winning three major categories: Best Picture, Director, and Editing, a rare and commendable achievement in Academy Awards history. Sylvester Stallone, who also wrote the screenplay, received nominations for both Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay, showcasing his multifaceted talent. His role in bringing Rocky to life exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit against the greatest of odds. Is Rocky worthy of the Best Picture of 1976? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

    One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest and the 48th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2024 159:21


    The Worthy Boys are being institutionalized in honor of  "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," the groundbreaking Best Picture of 1975!

    96th Academy Awards Reactions

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 117:29


    Oscar season is officially over as the 96th Academy Awards wrapped up the best films of 2023! Oppenheimer took home the Best Picture award with a total of 7 Academy Awards. In this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon breakdown the ceremony and their thoughts on how the Oscars panned out. Ben and Jon also highlight key moments at the ceremony and where Ryan Gosling's "I'm Just Ken" ranks among Oscar moments. Why are Ben and Jon wrong on their Oscar takes? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    96th Academy Awards Nominations Reaction

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 92:50


    The 96th Academy Awards nominations were announced on January 24! Ben and Jon breakdown the surprises and snubs as well as giving their thoughts on every category. Do we think Oppenheimer will sweep? Does Margot Robbie deserve to be a Best Actress nominee? Tune in and listen for our answers and more!

    The Godfather Part II and the 47th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 181:24


    The Worthy Boys are stepping back into tuxedos to celebrate a legendary sequel that redefined the art of cinematic storytelling in 1974: "The Godfather Part II"!

    Top 10 Movies of 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2023 123:06


    Welcome to the end of 2023! Join us, as we come together to revisit the cinematic wonders of the year, celebrating the extraordinary work of filmmakers from around the globe. In this episode, we dive deep into the burning question: Did Oppenheimer and Past Lives surpass Barbie, or did Barbie steal the spotlight as the year's cinematic masterpiece? But that's not all! We'll discuss our biggest surprises and disappointments of the year, sharing our thoughts on the films that exceeded expectations and those that fell short. We'll also reflect on the movies that evoked the most laughter and tears, creating memorable moments throughout 2023. And the grand finale of this episode? Worthy's top 10 movies of 2023, featuring Oppenheimer, Past Lives, and Barbie! Curious to know which other films made the cut? You won't want to miss it. We want to hear from you too! Share your favorite films from 2023 with us on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

    The Sting and the 46th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 144:27


    The Worthy Boys are turning back the clock to become confidence men as we're celebrating 1973's "The Sting" – a timeless masterpiece that combines wit, charm, and irresistible twists!  This 70s gem, starring the dynamic duo Paul Newman and Robert Redford, takes you on a thrilling ride through the world of high-stakes cons and clever schemes. With its wacky cast of characters, dazzling plot twists, and a soundtrack that'll have you humming along, "The Sting" is a cinematic experience that had a bigger effect on cinema than you might think.  Set in the Prohibition era, this film not only captures the essence of the period but also leaves you guessing until the very last card is played. Grab your popcorn and get ready for our conversation about the 46th Academy Awards and the Oscar's first streaker! If you haven't seen "The Sting" yet, it's time to add it to your watchlist!

    Summer 2023 Top 10 Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2023 92:56


    Join the Worthy Boys and a special guest to review the best films of Summer 2023 along with the biggest stories of the summer – plus what to look forward to in the fall and winter!  The Atomic Bomb, Spidermen, and millennial pink rule the summer box office but is this enough to keep theaters afloat another year? Strikes and greedy CEOs fuel the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood and the motion picture business as the writing and actors strike pushes past three months with no end in sight. With pushbacks and indefinite delays on the horizon, did the summer box office make up for what looks to be a lackluster fall movie season?  

    The Godfather and the 45th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2023 227:38


    Ben and Jon are going to make you an offer that you can't refuse, a breakdown of the 45th Best Picture winner "The Godfather". The gangster epic is the focal point of this episode as the Worthy Boys dive deep with the fishes to discuss the aspects of the films production.  The film brings a heavy weight because of it's popularity and rank among the all-time best films. Ben and Jon debate if the film is Worthy of it's recognition as a top film and which parts stand out the most to them. Stay tuned throughout this episode as our Worthy hosts give you a behind the scenes look of the film as well as the events that occurred at the 45th Academy Awards! Is The Godfather worthy of the Best Picture award of 1972? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    The French Connection and the 44th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2023 155:18


    The Worthy Boys are on the beat tracking down a large shipment of heroin in the Big Apple as we're discussing the 44th Best Picture The French Connection! Gene Hackman stars as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in this French new wave-inspired cop drama that went on to inspire the genre. Also, hear Ben and Jon break down the Oscar winners of the night like Jane Fonda and Charlie Chaplin.  In perfect timing, The French Connection and its digital streaming offering were brought into question recently when eagle-eyed viewers noticed stealth edits made to the 1971 classic The French Connection, which is owned by Disney and being streamed by the Criterion Channel. Catch the episode to hear our take on censoring this iconic Best Picture and whether this was a good idea or not!  Is The French Connection worthy of the Best Picture award of 1971? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    Patton and the 43rd Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2023 113:16


    Worthy is back with General George S. Patton leading the charge! The George C. Scott starring biopic became an instant classic in 1970 for movie goers. Scott's performance and the depths he went through to portray Patton properly shines in this Best Picture winner. Ben and Jon breakdown the Oscar winning script co-written by Francis Ford Coppola and what the character of Patton is trying to accomplish. The Worthy boys also breakdown the 43rd Academy Awards as well as the 5 Best Picture nominees from that year! Is Patton worthy of the Best Picture award of 1970? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    Midnight Cowboy and the 42nd Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2023 148:46


    The Worthy Boys are becoming city slickers as we head north to the Big Apple to celebrate John Schlesinger's Midnight Cowboy (1969) starring Dustin Hoffman and Jon Voight! Everybody's watching and wondering what's on our minds. Well, it's Ratso/Rizzo and Joe Buck trying to hustle their way through New York City, that's what! This incredible picture explores the depths of New York City you rarely see while also being a personal and intimate story about self-discovery.  Times are changing as we reach the end of the 60s and enter into The New Hollywood. The Oscars are now international Over the winter and the Board of Governors finalized a radical new plan: anyone who had not been active in the movie industry for seven years would be made an "associate" member, without an Oscar vote – in other words put “out on the icebergs to die." This is the end and beginning of Cowboys as John Wayne finally wins his Best Actor Oscar for True Grit.   Is Midnight Cowboy worthy of the Best Picture award of 1968? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    95th Academy Award Reactions

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2023 72:06


    Ben and Jon react to the results of the 95th Academy Awards! The Worthy hosts go through the highlights, snubs and surprises that unfolded at Hollywood's biggest night.  What did you think of the 95th Academy Awards? Tell us why we're wrong and email us at worthysubmissions@gmail.com If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    95th Academy Award Predictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2023 84:38


    The Worthy Boys gather to predict the results of this year's Oscars! The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is gathering to honor the best films released in 2022 and beyond!  Everything Everywhere All at Once leads this awards season with 11 total nominations with All Quiet on the Western Front and The Banshees of Inisherin with 9. Could Elvis or The Banshees of Inisherin come from behind and take home the big award for Best Picture?   The 95th Academy Awards will air on Sunday, March 12th, 2023, and will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Who will be worthy of the Oscar gold?  We will see you at the show!

    Oliver! and the 41st Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2023 125:55


    The Worthy boys are begging for FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD! as we're celebrating the wacky west-end world of Oliver! directed by Carol Reed based on the book Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. Oliver! was the last British film to win Best Picture until Chariots of Fire in 1981, and the last musical to win until Chicago in 2002. It's hard not to laugh when discussing the wacky plot of Oliver! as we argue that Oliver might not even be the lead in the film named after him.    We discuss the musical as well as the latest 4K restoration done by Columbia Pictures and the difference in experience a viewer has depending on the specific version of a film they watch. The 41st Academy Awards were also the first Oscars to be staged at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Los Angeles, and the first with no host since the 11th Academy Awards!   Is Oliver! worthy of the Best Picture award of 1968? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    In The Heat Of The Night And The 40th Academy Awards

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2023 147:25


    The Worthy boys are investigating the streets of Sparta, Mississippi to discover who murdered a local wealthy businessman as we're discussing In the Heat of the Night. The racially fueled film stars Sidney Poitier as a Philadelphia Detective stuck outside of his jurisdiction and Rod Steiger as the local racist police chief in charge of the murder case.  Tune in to hear us analyze the shocking moments that stunned American audiences of 1967; moments like when our Black protagonist, Detective Tibbs slaps a white man marking a first in Hollywood American cinema!  The 1967 Oscars were originally scheduled for April 8th but the awards were postponed to two days later due to the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. This travesty would continue to spark debates over the civil rights movement and films like In The Heat of the Night were used as a shining example of how to examine this American issue.  Is In the Heat of the Night worthy of the Best Picture award of 1967? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    95th Academy Award Nominations

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2023 86:17


    The Worthy Boys gather to celebrate the nominations to this year's Oscars! The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is gathering to honor the best films released in 2022. Everything Everywhere All at Once leads this awards season with 11 total nominations with All Quiet on the Western Front and The Banshees of Inisherin with 9. Could Elvis or Spielberg's The Fablemans come from behind and take home the big award for Best Picture?  This is the even first time since 1935 that all 5 Actors in the Best Actor category have never been nominated for the award. The 95th Academy Awards will air on Sunday, March 12th, 2023, and will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. We will see you there!

    A Man For All Seasons and the 39th Academy Award

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2023 80:29


    The Worthy boys are going through all the seasons to break down the 1966 Best Picture winner, "A Man For All Seasons". Ben and Jon open the episode discussing dialogue-heavy films and how they translate on to screen. The Worthy hosts also look back at the 39th Academy Awards and the films honored from 1966! The film "A Man For All Seasons" centers on the trial of Sir Thomas More and his defiance against the crown of England during the 1500s. The Worthy boys look at the film's script, cinematography, and acting performances from some of the biggest names among British actors.  Is A Man For All Seasons worthy of the Best Picture award of 1966? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    Top 10 Films of 2022

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2023 104:22


    The Worthy boys gather to review the great cinema of 2022 and worship the work done by filmmakers all over the world. Does Top Gun: Maverick or The Batman make the best films of the year or is it the year for A24's Everything Everywhere All at Once?      Ben and Jon even debate whether people should make or watch Worst top 10 film lists; do worst film lists add value to the art form of filmmaking or any art at all? Tune in to find out Worthy's top 10 movies of 2022!     Tell us the films you loved in 2022 on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com      

    Most Anticipated Films of 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2023 57:25


    The worthy boys gather today to look forward to the wonderful cinema coming in 2023! Ben and Jon discuss their top ten most anticipated films of the new year which include films like The Flash, Oppenheimer, and Dune Part Two!  Tell us the films you're looking forward to on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com   

    38th Academy Awards and 'The Sound of Music'

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2022 129:52


    The Worthy boys are climbing every mountain to bring you a breakdown of the classic Julie Andrews-led musical The Sound of Music! Ben and Jon open the episode with a breakdown of film criticism and how critics have changed and molded our society. The boys also discuss how the 1966 Academy Award ceremony was broadcasted on the ABC network and was the first to be broadcast live in color!    The two most nominated films of 1965 were The Sound of Music and Doctor Zhivago, each with ten nominations and five wins! The Sound Of Music was even the first Best Picture winner since Hamlet (1948) without a screenwriting nomination and would be the last film until Titanic (1997) to not receive a screenwriting nomination.   Is The Sound of Music worthy of the Best Picture award of 1966? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    95th Academy Awards Early Predictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2022 80:01


    The Worthy boys are taking early guesses on who will be nominated for the 95th Oscars in 2023! Ben and Jon discuss the top 5 categories and the wild cards that may be included like The Batman and Top Gun: Maverick.    Jimmy Fallon is back as the host and we discuss whether a comedian is suitable for a host this year. And finally, we debate why there are so few Thanksgiving films and what a Thanksgiving film really is.    The 95th Academy Awards ceremony, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, will honor films released in 2022 and is scheduled to take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on March 12th, 2023.   Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    37th Academy Awards 'My Fair Lady'

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2022 114:49


    Wouldn't it be loverly to listen to a whole new Worthy episode? Ben and Jon are back discussing the 1964 Best Picture winner, "My Fair Lady". The Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison starring film is among one of the most popular musicals of all-time. In this episode, the Worthy boys figure out if that still holds true with the film version of the musical.  We discuss film going audience's fascination with high society drama, what the true message of the film is and if the messaging of the film is lost in translation for audiences. The 37th Academy Awards proved to be a questionable affair with several great movies coming out that year, yet there seems to be one person in particular who may have been pulling the strings in their favor.  Is My Fair Lady worthy of the Best Picture award of 1964? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    2022 Halloween Special (Top 5 Horror Films of All time)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2022 69:14


    The worthy boys take out their chainsaws, butcher's knives, and axes to survive this year's Halloween Worthy Special!    Jon and Ben list their top five horror films of all time and plan to do this every year during the spookiest time of the year! Obviously, there are some classic or iconic horror films we have not seen thus it will be great to update this list every year to see how our tastes change or how additional horror films we watch may make our list.     Are our top five horror lists Worthy to you? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    36th Academy Awards and ‘Tom Jones'

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2022 96:38


    The Worthy squire boys pull up their tights to join a hunt in the English countryside as we're discussing Tony Richardson's Tom Jones. The film is based on the adaptation of Henry Fielding's classic 1749 novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, and stars Albert Finney as the titular hero. Tom Jones is one of the few comedies to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards so Ben and Jon try to dissect why this film was adored at the time and how it's become forgotten over time.    We discuss the unique look and style of the film and how Richardson used some of the technical elements of the British New Wave in this wacky British comedy. Tom Jones is one of only nine films in all of cinema history that have been nominated for five Oscars for their performances and we ask the question of whether this is a sign as to why the film is not often spoken of. Come join us with beers a plenty, roast chicken dinners, and numerous lovers to discuss Tom Jones!    Is Tom Jones worthy of the Best Picture award of 1963? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    35th Academy Awards 'Lawrence Of Arabia'

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2022 150:40


    Hut hut! The Worthy boys saddle up on their camels and venture into the 1962 Best Picture winner, Lawrence Of Arabia. The David Lean epic starring Peter O'Toole captured the beauty of the desert through some of the most iconic cinematography ever captured on film. The film's length of almost 4 hours leaves a lot to discuss for this narrative epic. The film's production is one of a few feats in Hollywood that not only uses the artform of filmmaking properly but propels it beyond the medium. Ben and Jon discuss all the iconic imagery of the movie as well as figuring out what genre this film belongs to. Is Lawrence Of Arabia Worthy of the Best Picture award of 1962? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    34th Academy Awards ‘West Side Story'

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2022 121:27


    The Worthy boys join a snapping gang to do some interpretive dancing in the west side of New York for our 34th episode of Worthy Podcast! With West Side Story winning 10 Academy Awards, this became the biggest Oscar-winning musical of all time, beating the record Gigi set three years before with its nine Oscars.  It is the only movie winning exactly 10 Academy Awards. No other Movie has 10 Academy Awards, although Ben Hur (1959), Titanic (1997) and The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (2003) have won 11 Academy Awards. We even discuss how 1961's West Side Story compares to the 2021 remake by the one and only Steven Speilberg!  Is West Side Story worthy of the Best Picture award of 1961? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    Summer 2022 Box Office

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 89:50


    The Worthy Boys are back for a special bonus episode about the 2022 summer box office joined by a special guest! We dive deep into our favorite films, the biggest surprises, and the biggest disappointments of the summer. If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    33rd Academy Awards 'The Apartment'

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2022 134:01


    The Worthy boys exchange keys as we're heading to Jack Lemmon's apartment for a wild night! The Apartment won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Art Direction, and Best Editing. The film received five additional nominations, including Shirley MacLaine and Jack Lemmon for Best Leading Actress and Actor.  Billy Wilder even became the first person to win the Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. We discuss the gender politics brought up in the film and how they pushed the boundaries of cinema and workplace etiquette. We also chat about how this was the last Black and White film to win Best Picture at The Academy Awards until The Artist in 2011. Shut up and deal!  Is The Apartment worthy of the Best Picture award of 1960? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    32nd Academy Awards 'Ben-Hur'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2022 122:05


    The Worthy boys are going chariot racing in this episode! Ben and Jon go back to the year 26 AD to talk about the William Wyler epic, "Ben-Hur". The 1959 Best Picture winner stars Charlton Heston in the titular role as he plots his revenge in this biblical epic. The film's large scale production has cemented itself among one of the classics that 1950s Hollywood has to offer. At the 32nd Academy Awards, Ben-Hur took him 11 Oscars. It is a record that has never been eclipsed by any film to date, which only highlights how grand of a scale the film was. In this episode Ben and Jon discuss religious films and the intense sequencing of the chariot race that the film is mostly known for.  Is Ben-Hur Worthy of the Best Picture award of 1959? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    31st Academy Awards 'Gigi'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2022 152:11


    Thank heaven, there's a new Worthy episode out! In this episode Ben and Jon are joined by Austin Gold to talk about the 1958 Best Picture winner "Gigi" and the 31st Academy Awards. The Vincente Minnelli directed musical starring Leslie Caron, Louise Jourdan and Maurice Chevalier, focuses on the budding relationship of a young French girl and a rich socialite.  At the 31st Academy Awards the film took home 9 Academy Awards, setting at record for the time. This episode focuses on the taboo nature of the film as well as how taboo films are treated today. The film's narrative focusing on an underage girl and older man creates controversy that was not discussed at the time of its release. Ben, Jon and Austin also go through the technical aspects of the film as well and how it is used overall.  Is Gigi Worthy for the Best Picture award of 1958? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    30th Academy Awards and 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2022 133:16


    The Worthy boys help build a bridge to one of the greatest Best Picture winners, The Bridge On The River Kwai starring Alec Guinness and William Holden. This wartime adventure is packed with tension, thrills, and some of the best cinematography in a Best Picture winner yet! We even discuss whether there's even a lead in this film or if this movie is simply an ensemble piece.    This is the 30th episode of the Worthy podcast so it's once again time for the Worthies to be given out to the best films from 1948 to 1957! We determine what's the best Best Picture over the last 10 episodes as well as give our picks for some other technical awards. The Worthy boys also talk about Miyoshi Umeki winning Best Supporting Actress and becoming the first Asian performer winner at the Oscars!     Is Bridge On The River Kwai a Worthy contender for Best Picture? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    29th Academy Awards 'Around The World In 80 Days'

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2022 89:30


    Get your hot air balloon, train, steamboat and elephant ready cause we are going Around The World In 80 Days! The 1956 adventure film took home the Best Picture award that year for its large screen take of the world and cameo filled cast. We discuss the film's intro using the classic silent film, A Trip To The Moon (1902), and how that is treated with the rest of the film. The Worthy boys also delve into some of the questionable choices with representing world cultures, the use of cameo appearances and who really is the lead of this film between Cantinflas and David Niven. With a blockbuster filled year in 1956, Around The World In 80 Days fought its way up to get the top prize.  Is Around The World In 80 Days a Worthy film for Best Picture? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    28th Academy Awards 'Marty'

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2022 120:25


    The Worthy boys are calling up some dates as we are discussing the 1955 melodrama, Marty! In our opening, we discuss how Marty feels like the last stop of our grandparent's Hollywood, and then we enter into our parent's Hollywood. Marty was the only film based on a TV drama to ever win Best Picture and at 90 minutes long, this is the shortest of all films that have won the Academy Award for Best Picture. We even discuss how Marty received the first Palme d'Or ever awarded and how this was the first movie to win the Oscar for Best Picture that was produced by an actor, Burt Lancaster, who does not appear in the film. It also wouldn't be a conversation about Marty without Marty himself Mr. Ernest Borgnine who dominates the screen with his gentle yet powerful performance.  Is Marty a Worthy contender for Best Picture? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    27th Academy Awards 'On The Waterfront'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2022 142:13


    In this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon take a deep dive into the 1954 classic "On The Waterfront". The 8-time Academy Award winning film features Marlon Brando's iconic performance as a conflicted gang member and his moral struggle to be something more in his life than a "bum". Ben and Jon also discuss the importance of aspect ratio to a film and how that impacts the films overall tone. "On The Waterfront" is also considered an allegorical piece for director Elia Kazan and his own conflict during the Red Scare in 1950s Hollywood. Is "On The Waterfront" a Worthy contender for Best Picture? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    26th Academy Awards 'From Here to Eternity'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2022 121:14


    The Worthy boys head to a U.S. Army base in Hawaii to prepare for war in Fred Zinnemann's ‘From Here to Eternity'! This episode of Worthy, we debate the progression of sex and relationships in Hollywood film and how the boundaries are slowly starting to expand. 'From Here to Eternity' is a war film not about war but about the men training for the war and their relationships outside of the Army base.  Ben and Jon discuss the film's wonderful use of real life locations and the wonderful lead performances by Clift, Sinatra, and Lancaster. Its achievement of eight Oscars matched the then record held by Gone with the Wind (1939). Sinatra steals the heart of the film but is this a Worthy Supporting performance?  Is 'From Here to Eternity' worthy of the Best Picture award of 1953? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    94th Academy Awards Reaction

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022 76:15


    Ben and Jon react to the results of the 94th Academy Awards! The Worthy hosts go through the highlights, snubs and surprises that unfolded at Hollywood's biggest night.  What did you think of the 94th Academy Awards? Tell us why we're wrong and email us at worthysubmissions@gmail.com If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    25th Academy Awards 'The Greatest Show On Earth'

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2022 123:35


    This is The Greatest Show.....On Earth! This episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon join the circus and discuss Cecil B. DeMille's lone Oscar win. 'The Greatest Show On Earth' is an ode to the big top and glorifies the creative production that goes into it. Our hosts also discuss the history of the use of animals in Hollywood productions. Ben and Jon look into the films use of the real Ringling Brothers Circus, Charlton Heston's lead performance and an intriguing subplot featuring James Stewart as "Buttons, a Clown". This film's win at the 25th Academy Awards has been debated heavily by modern critics, but do Ben and Jon agree with these modern takes? Is 'The Greatest Show On Earth' worthy of all the Best Picture award for 1952? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    24th Academy Awards 'An American In Paris'

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2022 125:06


    The Worthy boys tap dance their way over to Paris in order to discuss the Technicolor MGM musical film ‘An American in Paris'. Inspired by the 1928 orchestral composition by George Gershwin, this 1950s classic adaptation presents the French city with bright and lavish recreations of the iconic landscape. Our hosts also take a deep dive into the climactic 17-minute dialogue-free ballet featuring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. We even debate whether an actor such as Gene Kelly can be considered as an auteur filmmaker based on their critical role to the production. The musical won six Academy Awards out of eight nominations.  Is An American in Paris worthy of all these nominations and awards? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com #film #academyawards #movies #oscars #hollywood #podcast #bestpicture #actress #actor #1951 #anamericaninparis

    23rd Academy Awards ‘All About Eve'

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2022 138:12


    The Worthy boys head backstage to dissect the drama between Eve Harrington (Anne Baxter), a super fan who becomes consumed by ambition and betrays her older mentor, Margo Channing played by Bette Davis. We discuss ageism in Hollywood and how the industry has improved or maybe not improved as much as it should. All About Eve went on to receive 14 nominations, beating and setting the record for most in a ceremony at the time.    It's impossible to discuss All About Eve without mentioning one of the biggest Oscar snubs of all time with Bette Davis not receiving a nomination for her role as Margo Channing. However we do celebrate the other wins such as Joseph L. Mankiewicz for Best Screenplay/Best Direction, George Sanders for Best Supporting Actor, and Edith Head and Charles LeMaire winning Best Costume Design – Black and White.    Is All About Eve worthy of all these nominations and awards? Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com    If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    Bonus: 94th Academy Award Nomination Reactions

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2022 82:45


    Ben and Jon breakdown the announcement of the 94th Academy Awards nominations. The Worthy hosts go through the highlights, snubs, and surprises of this year's nominees and categories.  If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, Twitter, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

    22nd Academy Awards ‘All the King's Men'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2022 101:46


    We mob together to discuss Willie Stark's rants and political fall from grace as we're discussing the 22nd Best Picture winner All The King's Men. This 1949 film takes the gaze of a noir film and applies it to a political thriller about a local farmer turned politician. All The King's Men was based on the popular novel by Robert Penn Warren from 1946. We descend into the earthly mess that is politics to discuss how politics are often portrayed in film as well as some of our favorite “political films”.     We discuss Mercedes McCambridge's film debut in All The King's Men and how it even earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, becoming only a handful of actors to win an Oscar in their film debut. It's impossible to discuss this film without mentioning the sharp script and the dominating performance by Broderick Crawford who even won the Best Actor award for his performance as farmer turned politician Willie Stark.   If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you may get your podcasts! Tell us how we're wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com 

    A Worthy Top 10 (2021 Edition)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2021 89:20


    Worthy hosts give their end of the year recap and personal Top 10 films of 2021. In this episode Ben and Jon discuss the state of films and their experiences with going back to theaters to watch the newest in Hollywood. Ben and Jon also give some early Oscar predictions for the 94th Academy Awards and what they hope to see as 2021 Oscar season approaches. From Dune to Belfast to No Time To Die, this episode of Worthy goes through the best of 2021 in film. Tune in and listen to our Top 10 films of 2021!

    A Worthy Holiday

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2021 33:14


    Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, a Worthy Holiday special to listen to. Ben and Jon talk about Holiday Movies and where they have appeared in Oscar history. Our hosts also dive into what makes a Holiday movie a "Holiday Movie" and the popularity of the genre among different celebrations during the holiday season.  So warm up to your favorite podcast listening spot and check out this special Holiday episode!  If you like this episode and the show, please leave a review! It really does help us. Give us a follow on Instagram at WorthyPodcast and on Twitter @WorthyPod. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you may get your podcasts!

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