We’re in the lead up to this year’s Academy Awards, otherwise known as the Oscars. Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the idea is recognizing excellence in cinematic achievement with a little gold statuette. But 96 years into this tradition, it’s not always clear why the Academy makes the choices it does—what excellence really means and to whom. These are questions we’re exploring today with Michael Schulman, author of the new book, Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat and Tears, a near century-long history of cultural trends as exemplified by what gets the gold.

Will Oppenheimer coast to victory? Will anyone open the wrong envelope? Will anyone get slapped? Will you be watching? Keep the conversation going. Follow The Entertainment on Facebook, Instagram, or Substack and let us know what you think. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app and we’d love it if you gave us a review.

The Entertainment is a production of KIOS 91.5 FM Omaha Public Radio. It is produced and edited by Courtney Bierman. Today’s show featured music and clips from various Emmys and Oscar ceremonies, along with Hollywood Hotel and Of Human Bondage.

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7. A Century of Oscars