1999 brought audiences a remarkable number of unforgettable films, like: The Matrix, The Virgin Suicides, 10 Things I Hate About You, Eyes Wide Shut, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Magnolia, The Mummy— the list is nearly endless. Some were appreciated by the Academy while some were forgotten, but one movie did impress both voters and viewers alike: American Beauty. Its worldwide success was a surefire path to winning Best Picture, but not every component of the film was so lucky.

Sophia and Nick bring back one of their favorite series- with a twist!- by discussing Annette Bening’s performance in this controversial, yet insightful suburban satire. They marvel at her impressive performance before debating how she lost in such a dominating film and deciding if she should have won instead!

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod

Follow Sophia @sophia_cim

Follow Nick @sauerkraut27

Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich

Challengers isn’t just the hottest movie of the year, it’s a game changer when it comes to coming-of-age stories, exciting sports films, and dramas of the love triangle variety. Nick and Sophia are buzzing with excitement, ready to break down Luca Guadagnino’s latest and discuss how he creates another tantalizing universe full of electricity. In this PG-13 edition, they examine beautiful shot and dialogue parallels in every eye-popping scene and question Art, Patrick, and Tashi’s desires throughout their dynamic friendships. Stay for some fun listener questions that have them recasting the film, swapping roles, and sharing recommendations for other films with unlikeable characters.

For an explicit, churro-filled version of this episode with 10 minutes of bonus content, subscribe at www.patreon.com/OscarWild at the After Dark tier or higher!

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod

Follow Nick @sauerkraut27

Follow Sophia @sophia_cim

Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich

There's no complete list of 70's paranoia thrillers without The Conversation-- and it almost never came to be! Sophia and Nick dive into Francis Ford Coppola's other 1974 film this week, walking through the film’s pre-Watergate production, key scenes, and quotes, how Room 773 was the original Room 237, and why Harry Caul and Ron Swanson would be friends. At the end, they answer some fun listener questions and mourn the film’s many snubs at the Oscars.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @oscarwildpod

Follow Sophia @sophia_cim

Follow Nick @sauerkraut27

Music: “The Greatest Adventure” by Jonathan Adamich