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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.
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Episodes

Contenders V: Adapted Screenplay, Original Screenplay, Director, Picture

With only a few more guild ceremonies remaining and Oscar voting over, we’ve officially entered the final stretch before the 96th Academy Awards! On today’s episode, Sophia and Nick cover the final four categories in their 2024 Contenders series, including: Adapted Screenplay, Original Screenplay (23:35), Director (37:18), and Picture (55:40). Who do you think should win in each category? Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod Follow Sophia @sophia_cim Follow Nick @sauerkraut2...

Mar 01, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 4Ep. 48

Oscar Contenders IV: International Feature, Documentary Feature, Animated Feature, Live Action Short, Animated Short, and Documentary Short

With a new Contenders episode comes great responsibility. Err— Madame Web is on the brain as Nick and Sophia discuss Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and many more in a jam-packed penultimate episode in this series. First, they break down the three feature film categories with International Feature, Documentary Feature (19:03), and Animated Feature (29:20), before diving into the Short Film categories with Live Action (39:45), Animated (46:24), and Documentary (51:31). Many of these nominees ...

Feb 23, 202459 minSeason 4Ep. 47

Oscar Contenders III: Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Actor, and Actress

What comes to mind when you think of your favorite performance? Is it Meryl Streep, who leads the way with the most acting nominations of all time? Or is it the scene in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood , when Trudi whispers into Rick’s ear, “That was the best acting I’ve ever seen in my whole life”? Or Tammie Brown’s iconic ruveal, “I’m acting”? Whichever it is, consider adding some of the performances discussed on this week’s Contenders episode to your roster. With half of the 20 nominees earnin...

Feb 16, 20242 hr 2 minSeason 4Ep. 46

Oscar Contenders II: Makeup and Hairstyling, Costume Design, Production Design, and Cinematography

In the next batch of categories covered in their Oscar Contenders series, Nick and Sophia celebrate the sleek, eye-popping, and masterful artistry in the remaining below-the-line categories. Tune in to hear about each of the nominees in the following categories including their own write-in votes they wish would have made it in, too: Makeup and Hairstyling, Costume Design (29:52), Production Design (53:38), and Cinematography (1:15:19). What do you think should win for these awards? Follow us on ...

Feb 09, 20241 hr 38 minSeason 4Ep. 45

Oscar Contenders I: Original Song, Original Score, Sound, Film Editing, and Visual Effects

Ever wonder how directors, like this year’s Oscar-nominated Martin Scorsese and Justine Triet, work with their teams to orchestrate such thought-provoking, beautiful films? Sophia and Nick are back with their favorite yearly series to explain that and much, much more. After listing all the nominees in Original Song, Original Score (21:15), Sound (46:49), Film Editing (1:10:20), and Visual Effects (1:33:03), they list fun facts from production, what their write-in votes would be, and who they thi...

Feb 02, 20241 hr 55 minSeason 4Ep. 44

2024 Oscar Nomination Reactions

With voter participation at an all-time high from 93 countries, the nominees of the 96th Academy Awards are here! After the announcement on Tuesday, Nick and Sophia took time to celebrate, mourn, and analyze what went down to see how this awards season has shaped up. Listen for their full breakdown and a preview of what's to come before the Oscar winners are announced on March 10th! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod Follow Nick @sauerkraut27 Follow Sophia @sophia_cim Musi...

Jan 26, 202446 minSeason 4Ep. 43

Final 2024 Oscar Nomination Predictions

The time has come for overwhelming excitement, disappointment, and debate with the imminent announcement of the 2024 Oscar Nominations. On this week’s episode, Sophia and Nick share all of their predictions and likely surprises in the 20 feature categories. The BAFTA announcement has definitely shaken things up, but where will The Academy land? Listen for their biggest snubs and hopedictions and then let us know what you think! Find up-to-date nomination predictions @ oscarwild.squarespace.com F...

Jan 19, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 4Ep. 42

2024 Movie Preview Special

New Year, New Slate! Nick and Sophia start off 2024 with a bang by sharing over 100 films coming out this year, and there really is something for everyone. Want to channel your inner Gru with the latest Despicable Me sequel? Did you love Poor Things so much that you can’t wait to see Lanthimos’ next project? Or are you dying to see Anne Hathaway mothering once again?! They start with movies delayed from 2023, upcoming festival releases including Sundance and Berlin, and fun, chaotic features tha...

Jan 12, 20241 hr 29 minSeason 4Ep. 41

Best Movies of 2023

While it’s time to start counting down to THIS year’s Oscars, Sophia and Nick look back on an incredible year in moviegoing. They share why this year was extra special for them before recapping some of their fun Letterboxd Wrapped stats, including Total Watches and Most Watched Actor, Director, and Nanogenre. Instead of listing their top 10 favorites, they dole out multiple superlatives (15:48), from Favorite Breakout Performance and Best Shot to Favorite First-Time Watches and even Most Disappo...

Jan 05, 20241 hr 28 minSeason 4Ep. 40

The 2024 Oscar Shortlists (ft. Bennett Prosser)

We’re another step closer to the 96th Academy Awards! In their annual tradition, Nick and Sophia are joined by Bennett Prosser to decode the recently released Oscar Shortlists and how certain branches may be feeling about a year of outstanding movies. Listen as they share which movies got a huge boost by appearing here and which may be in danger. Follow Bennett on Twitter and Letterboxd @BennettProsser Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @oscarwildpod with more content @ oscarwild.squarespace.com...

Dec 24, 20231 hr 11 minSeason 4Ep. 39

The Oscar Wild Top 200

First came Maria, then Oprah. Now, Sophia and Nick are here to share some of their 'favorite things' to celebrate an exciting milestone: 200 episodes! They've created 20 lists to capture everything from the best of the Best Picture winners, memorable Golden Age actors, most egregious snubs, movies they'd be excited to introduce future children to, and, of course, their favorite OW episodes. Thank you to everyone who has been along for the ride, and here's to another 200!

Dec 22, 20232 hr 7 minSeason 4Ep. 38

Awards Season Check-In IV: ‘Poor Things,’ ‘American Fiction,’ LAFCA Awards, and Golden Globe Nominations

Awards and Nominations and Reviews, oh my! Nick and Sophia are back for their last (but not least) Awards Season Check-In with plenty of updates. First, they go over the LA Film Critics (LAFCA) award winners and how those differentiate from New York. Also, they see how the nominations from the HFPA-less Golden Globes stack up? Who’s in and who’s out with their reformed six nominee categories? Then, they review Poor Things (26:39), Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest bizarre collaboration with star Emma Sto...

Dec 15, 20231 hr 9 minSeason 4Ep. 37

Awards Season Check-In III: 'May December,' 'The Boy and the Heron,' and NYFCC Awards

It’s a big week for hot dogs and birds! Sophia and Nick start off another awards season chat by listing the New York critics prizes (NYFCC) and debate how these winners may shape other awards in the coming months. Then, they break down the year’s best melodrama and a career-defining acting showcase, May December (8:07). Todd Haynes tells his version of a real-life may december romance in a movie chock-full of memorable quotes and breathtaking images. Afterwards, they try to articulate the majest...

Dec 08, 20231 hr 12 minSeason 4Ep. 36

After Dark Preview: 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' and 'The Family Stone'

As a treat heading into December, Nick and Sophia preview their Patreon After Dark episode on two holiday gems— could they one day be considered classics? First, they chat about How the Grinch Stole Christmas , Ron Howard’s Oscar-winning, live-action remake with Jim Carrey playing Whoville’s #1 Scrooge, The Grinch. They list the many Oscar connections associated with the cast and crew, force each other to say three nice things about the movie, and debate if “Where Are You Christmas?” should’ve b...

Dec 01, 202331 minSeason 4Ep. 35

Always Remember Us This Way: ‘A Star Is Born’ (1937, 1954, 1976, 2018) (ft. Connor and Dylan MacDowell)

It’s Music To My Eyes…because the mega A Star Is Born anniversary episode with DRAMA podcast hosts Connor and Dylan MacDowell has finally arrived! In the first hour, they focus on the first three versions from 1937, 1954, and 1976, including discussions on the iconic stars, how the stories highlight their talents, the memorable (or not so memorable) show-stopping numbers, and how the films offer snapshots of the zeitgeist of their respective time. Then, they serve Hair Body Face, focusing on the...

Nov 24, 20232 hr 31 minSeason 4Ep. 34

Awards Season Check-In II: 'Rustin' and 'Saltburn'

Sophia and Nick are back to discuss more awards contenders with strong performances that will haunt and inspire you. In Rustin , Colman Domingo plays the titular activist who was instrumental in leading the 1963 March on Washington. Listen to hear what they liked about the film, including George C. Wolfe’s direction and a poignant script, before watching the film on Netflix. Next, dive into the twisted world of Emerald Fennell’s sophomore film, Saltburn , featuring an unforgettably funny, wily, ...

Nov 17, 202349 minSeason 4Ep. 33

Awards Season Check In I: 'Priscilla,' 'The Holdovers,' 'The Killer,' and 'Nyad'

Happy Studios Paying Actors What They Deserve Day! Hopefully this is the beginning of a robust season of actors campaigning for their films, starting with a few that Nick and Sophia are here to discuss today. Firstly, Priscilla , Sofia Coppola’s latest stylized film that details the complicated relationship between Elvis and his only spouse, Priscilla, and was adapted from her biography. Then, Alexander Payne’s crowdpleaser, The Holdovers , a melancholy yet hilarious jaunt through the holidays (...

Nov 10, 20231 hr 17 minSeason 4Ep. 32

After Dark Preview: ‘The Exorcist: Believer’, ‘The Exorcist II: The Heretic, and ‘The Exorcist III’ (feat. Cody Dericks)

Happy Halloween! For this spooky episode, join Sophia, Nick, and returning guest and horror aficionado Cody Dericks as they evade being possessed by Pazuzu. The first Exorcist film they dive into is David Gordon Green’s most recent sequel, The Exorcist: Believer . Find out what they think about Ellen Burstyn’s return and the film’s confused feelings about religion and spirituality. If you would like to listen to the full episode, which includes a thorough discussion of John Boorman's The Exorcis...

Oct 31, 202321 minSeason 4Ep. 31

'Killers of the Flower Moon'

Martin Scorsese's latest moving epic, Killers of the Flower Moon , is now playing in theaters and Sophia and Nick are here to uncover the many layers showcasing this horrific yet resilient true story. An adaptation of David Grann's book, the movie defends its 206 minute length with career-best performances, pristine visuals, and a captivating retelling that will make your blood boil. In their analysis, they talk about Oscar potential and some of their favorite scenes and performances.Follow us o...

Oct 27, 20231 hrSeason 4Ep. 30

The 61st New York Film Festival Recap (ft. Bennett Prosser)

Follow along as Nick, Sophia, and returning guest Bennett Prosser recap everything they saw at #NYFF61! Bennett initially shares his experience as a first-time festivalgoer and what it's like traveling to New York to see 9 movies in just a few days. Then, they briefly recap the films by sharing reactions and how they think they'll fare during awards season. Note that many of these will feature extended discussions in the coming months during Awards Season Check-In episodes and their Oscar Conten...

Oct 25, 20231 hr 16 minSeason 4Ep. 29

'Anatomy of a Fall'

This year’s Palme d’Or winner has been perplexing and astonishing audiences ever since its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May, and now everyone worldwide gets to experience the genius and tragedy of this thrilling murder mystery-courtroom drama hybrid. Listen as Nick and Sophia break down their favorite moments from the film, including Sandra Hüller’s towering performance and Justine Triet’s direction and writing, complete with a separate spoilers section (21:51). Once you’ve seen the m...

Oct 20, 202343 minSeason 4Ep. 28

A Symphony of Horror: From 'Nosferatu' to 'Bram Stoker’s Dracula'

Over 100 years ago, one of the most famous monsters that would wreak endless havoc on the mortal world first graced the silver screen. The first *unofficial* adaptation of Stoker's novel featured Count Orlok in Nosferatu , and Sophia and Nick start by discussing why this silent classic is not only an important early portrayal, but also created so much drama. After 50 other films showcasing Dracula came Francis Ford Coppola's opulent Bram Stoker’s Dracula (18:22). Listen to a thorough breakdown o...

Oct 13, 202348 minSeason 4Ep. 27

New York Movies: 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'Saturday Night Fever'

In preparation for the New York Film Festival, Nick and Sophia revisit some classic Oscar under-nominated films that wouldn't have been the same if they hadn't featured that iconic New York skyline. Check out their first Big Apple episode which featured some fall favorites here ! This time, they start with a deep analysis of one of their favorite horror films of all time, Rosemary’s Baby . Find out fun facts about shooting and why they find this film so chilling.Then, they boogie at the 2001 Ody...

Sep 29, 20231 hr 18 minSeason 4Ep. 26

Fall Festival Recap I: Venice, Telluride, and Toronto

Multiple fall film festivals have wrapped, so it’s time to look at the buzziest titles as we head deeper into awards season. While Sophia and Nick will be covering the hits in the coming months as they’re widely released, on this episode, they review festival winners. Sophia shares her wonderful Telluride experience, and they briefly hypothesize what the road ahead looks like…counting down to next year’s Oscars! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod Follow Sophia @sophia_cim ...

Sep 22, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 4Ep. 25

Stanwyck September (Stella Dallas, Ball of Fire, and Sorry Wrong Number)

With fall approaching, Sophia and Nick decided it’s the perfect time to explore the career one of their favorite stars, Barbara Stanwyck, in a spin on their “They Won for That?” series. She may be coined "The Best Actress Who Never Won an Oscar” since she only received an Honorary, but this makes her four nominations all the more necessary to celebrate. They first discuss Barbara’s early rise to fame before analyzing her first nomination for Stella Dallas , one of her most emotional and heartbre...

Sep 15, 202356 minSeason 4Ep. 24

Oscar Rewind: The 1953 Oscars (From Here to Eternity)

Looking back at a year in which three of the five highest grossing films were also Best Picture nominees feels like a rare feat today. However, 1953 has it all, from the first CinemaScope film to an historical romance drama set during WWII, and Audrey Hepburn’s big Hollywood break including her first Oscar nomination and win! Stay tuned as Nick and Sophia discuss the most nominated films of 1953, including the Best Picture winner, From Here to Eternity. Then, they debate if the other four nomine...

Sep 08, 20231 hr 17 minSeason 4Ep. 23

After Dark Preview: The 1993 Oscars with 'Addams Family Values' and 'Mrs. Doubtfire'

To continue their discussion on the nominees and winners at the 1993 Oscars, Sophia and Nick turn to two childhood staples. First comes the immediately recognizable- and when they're all together, ooky- Addams Family in Addams Family Values . Find out why they think expanding the cast, especially with Joan Cusack, was the right move in creating an even more memorable sequel. Then listen to the full "Addams Family (Whoomp!)" Razzie-winning track and music video here .If you would like to listen t...

Sep 01, 202327 minSeason 4Ep. 22

The 2024 Awards Season Fantasy Draft (ft. Bennett Prosser)

It's back to basics for Oscar Wild's 4th Awards Season Fantasy Draft with Bennett Prosser returning to compete with Sophia and Nick in anticipation of this upcoming awards season. They craft teams of movies, directors, actors, additional creatives, and some fun wild card picks that will hopefully align with wins with critics, technical guilds, and major award ceremonies. This year, they hope listeners will play along and submit their own teams via the following link: https://forms.gle/CjNJH1DD22...

Aug 25, 20231 hr 27 minSeason 4Ep. 21

They Won for That? Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon

“Good mornin’ ladies and gentlemen. This is a robbery.” On this two-part special of “They Won for That?”, Nick and Sophia discuss the Oscar wins for both Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, including a timeless classic they both starred in. For Geena, her win came packaged in a quirky whirlwind of a character that revitalizes a dog owner’s life in The Accidental Tourist . For Susan, a biopic adaptation did the trick with Dead Man Walking and her portrayal of a nun that comforts a convicted felon on ...

Aug 18, 20231 hr 7 minSeason 4Ep. 20

Summer 2023 Movie Release Round-Up

With so many new releases since April, Sophia and Nick decided it was already time for another movie round-up to talk about everything from raunchy sleeper hits like No Hard Feelings with Jennifer Lawrence to films with Best Animated Feature buzz like Elemental and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse . They also discuss new releases streaming and out in theaters now before seeing how the most anticipated summer movies, like Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Mission Impossible: Dead Recko...

Aug 11, 20231 hr 18 minSeason 4Ep. 19
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