What A Day
Why The Oscars “Never Get It Right”
Feb 28, 2025
Join Sam Sanders, host of KCRW’s ‘The Sam Sanders Show’ and ‘Vibe Check,’ as he delves into the Oscars and their cultural relevance. He critiques this year’s nominees, questioning the Academy's decisions amid ongoing scandals and marketing shenanigans. From the fall of a once-promising Best Picture contender to the creeping influence of AI in filmmaking, the conversation highlights the Oscars' struggle to keep pace with modern societal issues. Prepare for insightful commentary mixed with a dose of humor as Hollywood's flaws are laid bare.
24:22
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Oscars are criticized for prioritizing industry lobbying and promotional campaigns over authentic artistic merit and representation in film.
- This year's controversies, such as backlash against 'Emilia Perez' and AI usage in 'The Brutalist', highlight the Oscars' disconnect from genuine cinematic achievement.
Deep dives
The Political Nature of the Oscars
The Oscars are highlighted as a significant cultural event but are also critiqued for their lack of genuine representation and merit. The award process is described as a form of industry lobbying, where films are promoted by peers who may not have actually viewed them. Issues arise when movies that reflect broader societal conversations, such as trans representation in films, receive backlash for quality, leading to debates on their worthiness. This situation casts doubt on whether the Oscars truly celebrate the best in cinema or simply uphold outdated industry standards.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
