70 episodes

Worthy analyzes the storytelling & technical elements of each Academy Award Best Picture winner, in addition to the history of the Oscars and other movies since 1927. The show’s hosts, Ben and Jon, rate each film individually and compare each Best Picture winner from the last 100 years.

Worthy Ben Smith and Jon Roberts

    • TV & Film
    • 4.5 • 16 Ratings

Worthy analyzes the storytelling & technical elements of each Academy Award Best Picture winner, in addition to the history of the Oscars and other movies since 1927. The show’s hosts, Ben and Jon, rate each film individually and compare each Best Picture winner from the last 100 years.

    One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest and the 48th Academy Awards

    One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest and the 48th Academy Awards

    The Worthy Boys are being institutionalized in honor of  "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," the groundbreaking Best Picture of 1975! 🏆
    This film is not just a cinematic masterpiece but a narrative marvel, brilliantly capturing the spirit of its era. The movie, led by outstanding performances and Miloš Forman's masterful direction, stands as a landmark in film history. It's a profound story that resonates with audiences even today, demonstrating the power of cinema to challenge and inspire. 
    Jack Nicholson, in a role that has since become iconic, navigates us through the tumultuous waters of individuality against institutionalization, backed by a soundtrack that echoes the depth of the human condition. This film not only cements itself in the psyche of its viewers but also marks a pivotal moment for the Academy..
    Within the walls of a mental institution, "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" masterfully weaves a tale that pierces through the facade of conformity, urging us to question, to feel, and ultimately, to rise. 
    The film made a significant impact by sweeping the five major categories (Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay), a rare feat in Academy Awards history. 
    This is Zaentz’s 1st of 3 Academy Award wins for Best Picture. He would go on to win Best Picture for Amadeus (1984) and The English Patient (1996). Zaentz’s 3 wins for Best Picture are tied for the most ever by an individual with Sam Spiegel.
    This is Douglas’ 1st and only Academy Award as a producer. He would go on to win for Best Actor for Wall Street (1987).
    In late 1971, Douglas received from his father, Kirk Douglas, the rights to the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, which had been purchased by Bryna Productions in February 1962. Michael Douglas was 28 at the time he received the rights and 32 when he won Best Picture
    Is "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" Worthy of the  Best Picture of 1975? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    • 2 hr 39 min
    96th Academy Awards Reactions

    96th Academy Awards Reactions

    Oscar season is officially over as the 96th Academy Awards wrapped up the best films of 2023! Oppenheimer took home the Best Picture award with a total of 7 Academy Awards. In this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon breakdown the ceremony and their thoughts on how the Oscars panned out. Ben and Jon also highlight key moments at the ceremony and where Ryan Gosling's "I'm Just Ken" ranks among Oscar moments.
    Why are Ben and Jon wrong on their Oscar takes? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    • 1 hr 57 min
    96th Academy Awards Nominations Reaction

    96th Academy Awards Nominations Reaction

    The 96th Academy Awards nominations were announced on January 24! Ben and Jon breakdown the surprises and snubs as well as giving their thoughts on every category.
    Do we think Oppenheimer will sweep? Does Margot Robbie deserve to be a Best Actress nominee? Tune in and listen for our answers and more!

    • 1 hr 32 min
    The Godfather Part II and the 47th Academy Awards

    The Godfather Part II and the 47th Academy Awards

    The Worthy Boys are stepping back into tuxedos to celebrate a legendary sequel that redefined the art of cinematic storytelling in 1974: "The Godfather Part II"! 🎥✨ 
    Join us as we explore the world of this timeless masterpiece, which not only upheld the grandeur of its predecessor but also showcased the enduring power of sequels.
    Starring the legendary duo, Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, this 70s classic promises to transport you into the high-stakes world of organized crime and family loyalty. With its stellar cast, intricate plot developments, and a soundtrack that resonates in your soul, "The Godfather Part II" has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
    Set against the backdrop of the Mafia underworld, this film not only captures the essence of the era but also keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last scene unfolds. Grab your popcorn and prepare to join our conversation about the 47th Academy Awards and the memorable moments from Hollywood's history!
    Is "The Godfather Part II" Worthy of its Best Picture award of 1974? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    • 3 hr 1 min
    Top 10 Movies of 2023

    Top 10 Movies of 2023

    Welcome to the end of 2023! Join us, as we come together to revisit the cinematic wonders of the year, celebrating the extraordinary work of filmmakers from around the globe. In this episode, we dive deep into the burning question: Did Oppenheimer and Past Lives surpass Barbie, or did Barbie steal the spotlight as the year's cinematic masterpiece?
    But that's not all! We'll discuss our biggest surprises and disappointments of the year, sharing our thoughts on the films that exceeded expectations and those that fell short. We'll also reflect on the movies that evoked the most laughter and tears, creating memorable moments throughout 2023.
    And the grand finale of this episode? Worthy's top 10 movies of 2023, featuring Oppenheimer, Past Lives, and Barbie! Curious to know which other films made the cut? You won't want to miss it.
    We want to hear from you too! Share your favorite films from 2023 with us on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

    • 2 hr 3 min
    The Sting and the 46th Academy Awards

    The Sting and the 46th Academy Awards

    The Worthy Boys are turning back the clock to become confidence men as we’re celebrating 1973’s "The Sting" – a timeless masterpiece that combines wit, charm, and irresistible twists! 
    This 70s gem, starring the dynamic duo Paul Newman and Robert Redford, takes you on a thrilling ride through the world of high-stakes cons and clever schemes. With its wacky cast of characters, dazzling plot twists, and a soundtrack that'll have you humming along, "The Sting" is a cinematic experience that had a bigger effect on cinema than you might think. 
    Set in the Prohibition era, this film not only captures the essence of the period but also leaves you guessing until the very last card is played. Grab your popcorn and get ready for our conversation about the 46th Academy Awards and the Oscar’s first streaker! If you haven't seen "The Sting" yet, it's time to add it to your watchlist! 🍿👀
    Is The Sting worthy of the Best Picture award of 1973? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

    • 2 hr 24 min

Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5
16 Ratings

16 Ratings

TrueLove16 ,

Wondrous journey of film!

So stoked to finally watch every Best Picture winner with these gentlemen!

munchichi9 ,

Super fun listen!

What are you are super into film or just like watching the occasional movie, this podcast brilliantly walks you through each best picture winner in such a fun way. You can tell a lot of research and thought went into each episode. Can’t wait to hear more!

r-dudeman ,

For cinephiles and fans of all types

Loved the approach taken here on this podcast. It really is a welcome treat for all those who love film. I love hearing about the ceremonies and the pieces of knowledge sprinkled throughout each episode. You can tell a lot of care and love was put into this podcast.

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