Best Picture Predictions, Academy Awards Buzz & Rialto’s Oscars Night for a Cause

🎬 Oscars season is here — and we’re breaking it down from a Sonoma County perspective.

Joined by Ky Boyd and Joe Mulcare of Rialto Cinemas in Sebastopol, we dive into this year’s Academy Awards race — from Best Picture front-runners and bold predictions to the films that truly deserve the big screen.

Plus: details on Rialto’s live Oscars Night on March 15 benefiting Food For Thought.

Inside the conversation:

⭐ What Oscar season looks like from inside an independent movie theater 🎥 Why nominated films often hit differently on the big screen vs. streaming 🏆 This year’s chaotic Oscars race — and what’s driving it 🎭 Under appreciated films and surprising nominees 🎬 The performances and directors that left a lasting impact 🔊 Why editing, cinematography, and sound design deserve more love

We also dive into:

• Must-watch nominees to catch before Oscar night

• Films sparking the biggest post-screening conversations at the Rialto

• Bold predictions — including who should win vs. who will win

• Possible dark horses and surprise winners

• The movie most likely to age best over the next decade

Plus — if you're looking for a fun, communal way to watch the Oscars:

📍 Rialto Cinemas’ Annual Awards Night — March 15 in Sebastopol

Experience the Academy Awards live on the big screen with:

✨ Red carpet 🍷 Appetizers & drinks 🎭 Costume contest 🎲 Trivia & prizes

All benefiting Food For Thought, supporting vital nutrition services across Sonoma County.

Whether you're filling out a ballot, catching up on nominees, or planning your Oscar watch party — this episode is your local guide to the 2026 Academy Awards.

🎟️ Featured Topics

• Best Picture contenders like Sinners and One Battle After Another

• Under-the-radar favorites including Train Dreams and Eddington

• Acting race insights — including potential career wins

• International and animated category predictions

• How Oscar nominations shape theater audiences

🍿 Coming Soon at Rialto Cinemas

• Keep an eye out for upcoming releases discussed in this episode, including:

• Calais Malaga
• The Bride
• Project Hail Mary
  

🍺 Crack One Open

To toast Oscars season, this episode highlights a true classic: Duvel, the iconic Belgian Golden Strong Ale. Effervescent, dry, and deceptively powerful at 8.5%, Duvel pours with a signature fluffy head and bright, sparkling character — offering aromas of pear, honeysuckle, and subtle spice.

Award-winning in its own right and an inspiration for beers like Russian River’s Damnation, Duvel is a celebratory choice worthy of any Oscar watch party — pairing perfectly with appetizers, canapés, and even a few deviled eggs.

A timeless beer for a night of timeless cinema.

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