Oscar Wild - podcast cover

Oscar Wild

Sophia Ciminello & Nick Ruhrkrautoscarwild.squarespace.com
Oscar Wild is an entertainment podcast where Sophia Ciminello and Nick Ruhrkraut discuss the latest in film from new releases to old favorites, always counting down to next year's Oscars.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

The Oscars Shortlists and An Awards Season Update (ft. Bennett Prosser)

Nick and Sophia welcome back Bennett Prosser for an update on the state of this awards season with multiple recent exciting announcements. First, they debate how or if The G*lden Gl*bes and Critics Choice nominations may influence or track how other voting bodies feel about movies this year. Then, listen as they break down the recently announced Oscars shortlists, including all of the surprises, snubs, and insight it may give to predicting other categories (21:03). Follow us on Twitter and Insta...

Dec 23, 20211 hr 2 minSeason 2Ep. 34

60 Years of 'West Side Story' (ft. Connor and Dylan MacDowell)

Tonight, tonight…we’re joined by Connor and Dylan MacDowell of the DRAMA podcast to chat about all things West Side Story! First, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the classic movie musical that took home 10 Oscars, including Best Picture. Then, the twins join us for an Oscar Wild classic, Smash or Pass. This time with men from some of our favorite movie musicals! Plenty of shade and tea to spill (41:53). Finally, we review Steven Spielberg’s brand new adaptation. Does it live up to the origi...

Dec 16, 20211 hr 50 minSeason 2Ep. 33

Thanksgiving Release Round-Up: 'Encanto,' 'House of Gucci,' 'The Humans,' & 'tick, tick…BOOM!'

It's time to ring in the holiday season with plenty of movies for every audience and Nick and Sophia are back to discuss four of them with their reactions and Oscar potential: Encanto (1:31), House of Gucci (11:11), The Humans (26:00), and tick, tick…BOOM! (33:12). Which of this group was your favorite and what film from the last few weeks of 2021 are you looking forward to most? Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Follow Nick on Twitter @sauerkraut27 Follow Sophia on Twitter @sophi...

Dec 09, 202142 minSeason 2Ep. 32

Oscar Rewind: The 1971 Oscars (ft. Brian Rowe)

For their latest Oscar Rewind, Nick and Sophia are joined by Brian Rowe of the Film at Fifty podcast to celebrate the semicentennial of the 44th Academy Awards. They each choose a film to discuss from among the nominees- ‘The Last Picture Show’ (4:39), ‘Klute’ (34:21), and ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ (58:24)- before discussing the year's Best Picture and Best Director winner, ‘The French Connection’ (1:22:31). Listen as they break down highlights, reactions, and fun facts about eac...

Dec 02, 20211 hr 50 minSeason 2Ep. 31

Two by Jane Campion: 'The Piano' and 'The Power of the Dog'

On this week’s episode, Sophia and Nick celebrate the work of Jane Campion. First up, they share their thoughts on the beguiling film that brought her Oscar success, The Piano (2:30). Then they discuss one of the best movies of the year so far, The Power of the Dog (16:36). Finally, they go into a spoiler-filled breakdown of the ending (1:01:18). The Power of the Dog is in select theaters now and on Netflix December 1st. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Follow Sophia on Twitter @...

Nov 26, 20211 hr 15 minSeason 2Ep. 30

'Belfast' & 'King Richard'

Listen in as Nick and Sophia discuss two nomination shoo-ins for Best Picture: "Belfast" (1:56) and "King Richard" (41:45). After sharing general reactions to each film, they break down awards potential by category and provide some exciting Oscar stats. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich

Nov 18, 20211 hr 11 minSeason 2Ep. 29

Oscar Rewind: 'Terms of Endearment' & 'Amadeus'

Oscar stats are plentiful but the one where 'Terms of Endearment' and 'Amadeus' won back to back Best Picture and Director awards (among many others) and are the last films to have two lead acting nominees with one of them winning, debunking the split vote myth, may be the coolest. After breaking down the times this happened in Oscar history (1:54), Sophia and Nick get emotional with 'Terms of Endearment' (10:16), asking if The Academy got it right choosing Shirley MacLaine over Debra Winger. Th...

Nov 12, 20211 hr 19 minSeason 2Ep. 28

Our Updated Oscar Predictions in Above- and Below-The-Line Categories

With 143 days left until next year’s Oscars, it’s never too early to discuss awards potential. Sophia and Nick are here to share all of their Oscar predictions except for the short film categories. Will any movies sweep in technicals? Will acting or screenplay foresee the Best Picture winner? Which 10 films will be named Best Picture nominees? Stay tuned to find out this and much much more. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich...

Nov 04, 202158 minSeason 2Ep. 27

October Release Round-Up: 'Titane', 'No Time to Die', 'Mass', 'The Last Duel', 'Halloween Kills', and 'The French Dispatch'

Popcorn may now make up a substantial percentage of Sophia and Nick’s bodies after getting through a packed month of new movie releases. There is truly something for everyone and they are here to break down six movies, sharing their reactions and discussing Oscar potential. Check out: Titane (1:56), No Time To Die (17:11), Mass (30:39), The Last Duel (42:45), Halloween Kills (56:36), and The French Dispatch (1:11:01). Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Follow Sophia on Twitter @sop...

Oct 28, 20211 hr 29 minSeason 2Ep. 26

'Dune'

Put on your stillsuits and activate your body shields because it’s time to talk about Denis Villeneuve’s highly anticipated and spice-filled adaptation of “Dune.” To commemorate this (soon to be) two-part epic, Nick and Sophia begin by giving a full breakdown of their journey to Arrakis and some background info of the production. Then, what better way to highlight the huge cast than by playing “Smash or Pass,” an unhinged mini-game where they, well...you better listen to find out (34:28). Finall...

Oct 22, 20211 hr 29 minSeason 2Ep. 25

A Spooky Oscar Rewind: 'The Exorcist' & 'Carrie'

It's time to discuss two formative and unique Oscar-nominated horror movies from the 1970's. Starting with the first ever horror Best Picture nominee, Nick and Sophia follow Fathers Karras and Merrin in compelling demons in The Exorcist (1:20). Next, in the first ever adaptation of a Stephen King novel- and his first, too- lives another transformation of a tortured yet spiritually gifted female, "Carrie" (45:35). Which director considered an actor's performance so terrifying he didn't hire them ...

Oct 14, 20211 hr 15 minSeason 2Ep. 24

Celebrating Hitchcocktober with 'Rebecca,' 'Rear Window,' & 'Psycho'

Happy Hitchcocktober! Sophia and Nick are celebrating by discussing why they think he’s one of the most daring and legendary directors of all time and diving into three of his best movies that also happened to earn him nominations for Best Director. First, they dream of returning to Manderley again by discussing ghost stories, gothic horror, and toxic romance in Hitchcock’s only Best Picture winner, Rebecca (12:10). Then, they look into one of his most gripping psychological thrillers in the voy...

Oct 07, 20211 hr 21 minSeason 2Ep. 23

A Fall Festival Recap and September Release Round-up (Malignant, Blue Bayou, Cry Macho, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and Dear Evan Hansen)

Summer may have come and passed but there’s no need to wake Nick and Sophia up as September ends because they’ve been diligently watching movies and are ready to discuss five releases from the past month. Firstly, find out which movies are solidifying themselves in the Oscar race due to positive reviews from recent film festivals, including Venice, Telluride, Toronto, and New York, and which new trailers of some of their most anticipated films they’re most excited about (1:21). Then, onto Malign...

Sep 30, 20211 hr 17 minSeason 2Ep. 22

Oscar Rewind in the Big Apple: 'Annie Hall' & 'Kramer vs. Kramer'

La-dee-da! Sophia and Nick are back to discuss two Oscar-winning New York stories. First up, they rave about Diane Keaton, New York humor, and more in the classic romantic comedy, ‘Annie Hall’ (1:38). Next, it’s time for a mini-game break with a round of “Nom or Bomb” and some of their favorite (and least favorite) New York movies (29:10). Then, they attempt to make french toast and unpack the highest-grossing film of 1979, ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’ (38:04). Finally, Sophia recommends some other New Y...

Sep 23, 20211 hr 13 minSeason 2Ep. 21

'A Streetcar Named Desire' at 70 and the Best Director Nominees of 1951

Sophia and Nick are back with another Oscar Rewind, focusing on the Best Director nominees of 1951. First, they depend on the kindness of strangers as they celebrate the 70th anniversary of Elia Kazan’s steamy New Orleans classic, “A Streetcar Named Desire” (2:55). Then, they talk about the most beautiful couple to grace the screen, love triangles, and American tragedies in Best Director winner George Stevens’ film, “A Place in the Sun” (31:24). Next up, they share their thoughts on John Huston’...

Sep 16, 20211 hr 22 minSeason 2Ep. 20

The 2022 Awards Season Fantasy Draft

Remember the Awards Season Fantasy Draft? Well, Nick and Sophia are bringing it back with some new and returning guests ready to get in on the action. Let the competition ensue as they discuss all of the big films slated for upcoming fall festivals and debate their potential in taking home the gold this awards season. Which team do you think has the upper hand? Which movies are you most excited to see? Will any of these films be delayed (again)? If you’d like to watch along, check out the extend...

Sep 09, 20211 hr 15 minSeason 2Ep. 19

Fall Mailbag: Awards Season and Festival Kick-Off

This week, Sophia and Nick answer all of your submitted questions to get you ready for the start of festival season. Find out all about what the lineups at Venice, Toronto, and New York say about the upcoming Oscars race, what they’re most (and least) excited for, how influential festival buzz can be, and much more! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich

Sep 02, 202133 minSeason 2Ep. 18

Oscar Rewind: Frank Capra ('It Happened One Night', 'Mr. Deeds Goes to Town', and 'You Can't Take It With You')

This week’s episode is all about Frank Capra and his grand success and influence at the Academy Awards. Before diving into his three Best Director wins, Nick and Sophia share their relationships with Capra’s films growing up and a history of how Capra’s own pursuit of the American Dream as an immigrant led him to becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest stars (3:29). Then, they discuss his first Oscar-winning film and first Big Five winner (Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay), “It Happ...

Aug 26, 202153 minSeason 2Ep. 17

August Release Round-Up: 'Respect,' 'CODA,' and 'Annette'

Sophia and Nick are back to talk about a few new August releases that showcase memorable musical performances from their leading ladies. In ‘Respect’ you’ll find Jennifer Hudson’s soulful transformation as Aretha Franklin (1:16). Then, it’s another fun round of Nom or Bomb with biopics about musicians (15:31). The final two movies include the heartwarming coming-of-age tale of a musically gifted Child Of Deaf Adults at a crossroads in ‘CODA’ (18:31) and the spectacular rock opera ‘Annette’ that’...

Aug 20, 20211 hrSeason 2Ep. 16

Oscar Rewind: 'Shakespeare In Love' & 'Saving Private Ryan'

Nick and Sophia are back with another movie trade to discuss the contentious 1998 Best Picture race between 'Saving Private Ryan' and 'Shakespeare in Love.' Did Spielberg's epic patriotic WWII film (1:13) deserve to win over the fictionalized tale of Shakespeare writing "Romeo and Juliet" whilst simultaneously living out its romance IRL? (30:47) After discussing the films separately, they answer some listener questions and decide if The Academy got it right (47:22). Follow us on Twitter and Inst...

Aug 18, 20211 hr 7 minSeason 2Ep. 15

July Release Round-Up: 'Pig', 'Old', 'Stillwater', and 'The Green Knight'

Sophia and Nick are back to discuss some late July releases that have audiences flocking back to the theaters. After reacting to some new trailers and films delayed until 2022, they dive into Nicolas Cage’s daring rescue mission in “Pig” (13:45). Then, they try to decode the time-bending mystery to keep them from becoming too “Old” (22:44) before discussing the Matt Damon international crime thriller “Stillwater” (no, this is nothing like “The Bourne Identity”) (31:45). They finish by marveling ...

Aug 12, 20211 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 14

The Best Popular Film Oscar Game: 2000s Edition (ft. Ryan Lamb)

Guest star Ryan Man-Of-The-People Lamb is back for another round of awarding the Best Popular Oscar to films from the 2000s. After a discussion of MCU’s latest, “Black Widow” (1:08), Ryan, Sophia, and Nick share their thoughts on the proposed Best Popular Oscar as they speculate the logistics of this added category (7:54). Then, by going through each year from 2000 to 2009, they each reveal five nominees and deliberate in choosing a mutual winner (13:02). They also list some of their favorite fi...

Aug 05, 20211 hr 29 minSeason 2Ep. 13

A 2021 Cannes Film Festival Recap! Plus, Two Palme d'Or and Best Picture Winners ('Marty' and 'Parasite')

Nick and Sophia celebrate the Cannes Film Festival this episode before discussing the two unanimous winners of the Palme d’Or that went on to also win Best Picture at the Oscars: ”Marty” (1955) and “Parasite” (2019). Find out some history of the prestigious fête including its original name, what a Palme d’Or is, and all about the 74th Festival this year. Plus, Sophia recaps her whirlwind experience going to Cannes this year, sharing her favorite films, answering questions about what it’s like to...

Jul 24, 20211 hr 1 minSeason 2Ep. 12

Oscar Rewind: William Wyler (Mrs. Miniver, The Best Years of Our Lives, Ben-Hur)

Sophia and Nick are back to discuss the Oscars’ most-nominated director, William Wyler! They’ll discuss his fascinating history and rise through Hollywood (1:03) before discussing his three Best Picture & Director winners which were all record-setting films: Mrs. Miniver, The Best Years of Our Lives, and Ben-Hur. Wyler channeled his experiences serving during WWII to craft a successful propaganda film in “Mrs. Miniver” (11:04) and followed that up by exploring the hardships of veterans retur...

Jul 21, 20211 hr 36 minSeason 2Ep. 11

'Zola' and A24

Like, Follow, and Retweet this week’s episode as Nick and Sophia discuss the newly released Twitter-adapted film, “Zola.” After listing off some recent changes made by The Academy and other guilds, find out why A24 has been a defining film distribution company for the past decade and what they love about it so much (6:59). Then they dive into their reactions and breakdown of “Zola,” highlighting how Janicza Bravo and Jeremy O. Harris’ adapted the 148-tweet story and how the stellar cast brought ...

Jul 08, 202154 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Oscar Rewind: The 1964 Oscars (My Fair Lady)

It’s time for another Oscar Rewind to the 37th Academy Awards, where Sophia and Nick discuss the 1964 Best Picture (and Director and Adapted Screenplay) nominees (2:20). “My Fair Lady,” the winner and huge box-office success, took the musical to new and grander heights in this striking adaptation (6:59). Which three nominees had at least 12 nominations and which was the only entry to go home with zero? Listen to a full breakdown of all of the other nominees: “Becket,” an acting tour-de-force of ...

Jul 01, 20211 hr 12 minSeason 2Ep. 9

Nominated and Snubbed: Toni Collette in 'The Sixth Sense' and 'Hereditary'

Nick and Sophia are back to talk about one of their favorite Oscar-nominated actresses, Toni Collette! They highlight two of her spookiest performances from films released during summer, one that earned her a nomination and another for which she was snubbed. First is The Sixth Sense, a twisted box-office success, where Toni shines as the mother of a gifted child (4:46). Then, they finally get to break down Hereditary, one of their favorite, albeit bone-chilling, rewatches for which they know Ton...

Jun 24, 20211 hr 2 minSeason 2Ep. 8

‘In The Heights’

This week’s episode is all about the movie musical of the summer, In The Heights! Sophia and Nick share their favorite performances, musical numbers, and much more as they review the latest Warner Bros. release to hit theaters and HBO Max (4:02). Is this the first Best Picture hopeful of the season? They share their thoughts on if we’ll see this movie at the Oscars, its most likely nomination(s), and their favorite awards-worthy components (33:05). Lastly, they wrap up with another round of Nom ...

Jun 17, 202149 minSeason 2Ep. 7

Our Very Early 2022 Oscar Predictions

With so many recent release date announcements of films in 2021, Nick and Sophia decided it was time to make some early 2022 Oscars Predictions. Blockbusters like Dune and House of Gucci may boast high profile talent like Timothee Chalamet and Lady Gaga, but which other films will attract Oscars love? Listen to find out who they think will get nominated in the big six categories: Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Actor, Actress, Director, and Picture. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @osc...

Jun 10, 202143 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Interview with 'Holler' Director, Nicole Riegel

Director, Writer, and Producer Nicole Riegel joins Sophia and Nick to talk about her feature directorial debut, “Holler.” The film is a semi-autobiographical story that follows a young woman, Ruth, who joins a dangerous scrap metal crew to pay for her education and the chance of a better life. Nicole, a fellow Ohioan, recounts her journey from growing up in small-town Jackson where her love for movies began to joining the military and her initial reluctance with attending film school. She also s...

Jun 07, 202127 minSeason 2Ep. 5
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android