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You're Wrong About

The Worst Oscars Ever?? with Michael Schulman

Feb 27, 2025
Michael Schulman, author of 'Oscar Wars' and a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the chaotic and flamboyant history of the 1989 Oscars, often dubbed the worst ever. He discusses the eccentric production by Allan Carr, highlighting its bizarre opening featuring Snow White and Rob Lowe. Schulman reflects on the excesses of Hollywood at the time and critiques the industry's treatment of performers, especially women. He makes a case for why these notorious awards show moments are charmingly misunderstood and deserving of a second look.
01:20:12

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The 1989 Academy Awards, deemed a disaster, featured an awkward opening number that alienated both audience and participants alike.
  • Producer Alan Carr's ambitious attempts to modernize the Oscars by introducing 'baton theory' revealed a significant disconnect with traditional expectations.

Deep dives

The Notorious 1989 Oscars

The conversation centers on the 1989 Academy Awards, often labeled as the worst Oscars ever. The notorious opening number, featuring Snow White and Rob Lowe, is highlighted as an example of excess and folly, running for over 11 minutes. Actors in attendance appeared visibly uncomfortable as the performance included various awkward interactions and surreal elements that defied the usual standards of the ceremony. The producers aimed for innovation but ended up with a chaotic showcase that many deemed humiliating and cringeworthy.

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