Thank the Academy

In this episode we discuss the fifty-second Best Picture winner, Kramer vs. Kramer, a non-controversial ceremony to end the ‘70s, the cultural significance of the classic marriage drama, Dustin Hoffman’s and Meryl Streep’s deep commitment to their craft, and the record-breaking performance of child-actor Justin Henry!

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In this episode we discuss Heaven Can Wait, Warren Beatty’s early days in Hollywood, turn to producing, first film as a director, and record breaking feat of being nominated as a producer, writer, actor, and director all for the same film. We also discuss Jane Fonda’s life, her family legacy, her many accolades and awards, mold-breaking career, and decades of activism.

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In this episode we discuss the fifty-first Best Picture winner, The Deer Hunter, its historic win as a film about the Vietnam War, its carefully planned Oscar campaign, the origins of the story and script, and the too short life and career of actor John Cazale!

**Content Warning** Mentions of darker themes in relation to the plot of The Deer Hunter **

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In this episode we discuss George Lucas’s Star Wars, his four drafts of the film, producer Gary Kurtz’s reigning in of Lucas’s endless ideas, and the unequaled success of the first installment in the Star Wars Saga. We also discuss comedian Bob Hope, his early days as a child in the entertainment industry, his pioneering effect on stand-up comedy, and his lifelong relationship with the Academy.

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In this episode we discuss the fiftieth Best Picture winner, Annie Hall, Vanessa Redgrave’s infamous acceptance speech, Margaret Booth’s Honorary Award, the writing partnership of Woody Allen and Marshall Brickman, and Diane Keaton’s big win as the iconic rom-com leading lady, Annie Hall!

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In this episode we discuss Taxi Driver, the controversies surrounding the film, Jodie Foster’s Oscar nomination, and Martin Scorsese’s early career. We also discuss Faye Dunaway’s life and career, her roles in Bonnie and Clyde and Chinatown, her reputation as a “difficult actress,” and her ability to make the best of her situations.

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In this episode we discuss the forty-ninth Best Picture winner, Rocky, Sylvester Stallone’s early years in the entertainment industry, his inspiration for writing his breakout film, his struggle to breakout beyond the action genre, and the many records set at this year’s ceremony. 

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In this episode we discuss Jaws, Steven Spielberg’s early days in Hollywood, his confidence as a young director, and the film’s three Oscar wins. We also discuss the history of visual effects and the relationship between visual effects and the Academy Awards. 

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In this episode we discuss the forty-eighth Best Picture winner, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, its “big five” sweep at the Oscars, original author Ken Kesey and his inspiration for writing, Michael Douglas’s push to make his father’s, Kirk Douglas’s, dream come true, and Louise Fletcher’s return from retirement in her Oscar winning turn as Nurse Ratched!

**Content Warning** mentions of intense themes in relation to the plot of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (mental health, psychiatric facilities, suicide, violence) starting at 32:05**

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In this episode we discuss two unique adaptations of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: Scrooge, the first theatrically released musical adaptation of the story starring Albert Finney and A Christmas Carol, the animated, Oscar winning short film version directed by Richard Williams. Finally, we wrap up our year of podcasting with a look back at some of our favorite films that we've discussed over 2022. See you in the new year!

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