The Worthy Boys are off to the races in this episode as they breakdown the 1981 Best Picture winner, Chariots of Fire! Ben and Jon gallop their way into the art of slow-motion filmmaking as it is used heavily in the sports drama about the 1924 Olympics and the British track team. The film's iconic score is the highlight of the film as it incorporates synthesizers and new advancements in film scoring of the 1980s. Ben and Jon eventually find themselves running to the 54th Academy Awards and recapping the winners of the evening and if they think Chariots of Fire is worthy of the night's top prize. Take a listen and chime in on what you think about the films of 1981!

Summer 2025’s box office brought billion-dollar nostalgia, franchise crowding, and a global shake-up. Disney’s Lilo & Stitch remake became the only film to crack the $1 billion worldwide mark, while Jurassic World: Rebirth anchored the season despite stiff competition. Horror scored big with Final Destination: Bloodlines and Weapons, proving the genre’s staying power. But the real story was international—China’s animated juggernaut Ne Zha 2 crossed $2 billion, reshaping the global box office landscape. Even with a domestic total of $3.67 billion—just shy of last summer—Hollywood faced cannibalization, as superhero tentpoles like Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman undercut each other. Still, fresh surprises like Brad Pitt’s racing drama F1 showed audiences crave more than legacy IP. Join us as we break down the Top 10 Films of Summer 2025, the winners, the disappointments, and what’s next with Wicked: For Good, Avatar: Fire and Ash, and Sinners, leading into awards season.

The Worthy Boys are lying on the couch and confronting our past traumas, because Ordinary People won Best Picture at the 53rd Academy Awards! Robert Redford’s directorial debut stunned Hollywood by beating out heavyweights like Raging Bull and The Elephant Man. But maybe it was the right call. Ordinary People didn’t shout—it listened. It told the story of a family drowning in grief, trying—and failing—to connect. With devastating performances, restrained direction, and emotional honesty, the film resonated with audiences and critics alike. It went on to win four Oscars: Best Picture for producer Ronald L. Schwary, Best Director for Robert Redford, Best Supporting Actor for Timothy Hutton, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Alvin Sargent. Too quiet for some. Just right for others. What do you think—did Ordinary People deserve the crown?

The Worthy Boys return with a break down of the divorce-drama, Kramer vs. Kramer. The 1979 Best Picture winner featured harrowing lead performances highlighted by Dustin Hoffman's Best Actor win. Ben and Jon share their thoughts on the film's strong screenplay, simplistic approach and tackling changing social issues allowing the actors shine in the finished film. At the 52nd Academy Awards, Kramer vs. Kramer took home 5 Oscars that night with a powerful speech by Hoffman during his Best Actor win. Tune in to find out what we think about this Best Picture winning film. 

The 97th Academy Awards have arrived, and on this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon dive into their final predictions! They’ll break down each category, analyze the tightest races, and debate who they think should win versus who will take home the gold. Is Anora or Conclave the big winner? Does Demi Moore break Jon’s heart for Best Actress? And who emerges with the most awards for the night?   Tune in for the full Oscars breakdown!   Think Ben and Jon got it all wrong? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

The Oscars are finally here and on this episode of Worthy, Ben and Jon will share their predictions for the 97th Academy Awards. They will breakdown the state of each category race, who they think will win and who they would've picked if they had Oscar votes! Is it Anora or Conclave? Does Demi Moore win Jon's heart as Best Actress? Who wins in the Short Film categories?? Tune in and find out on this Oscars Predictions episode.  Why are Ben and Jon wrong on their Oscar takes? Let them know at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

The Worthy Boys are trading their tuxedos for camouflage as we break down one of the most harrowing Best Picture winners—The Deer Hunter! Directed by Michael Cimino and starring Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and Meryl Streep, The Deer Hunter is a haunting exploration of war’s psychological toll. From the steel mills of Pennsylvania to the horrors of Vietnam, the film delivers gut-wrenching realism and unforgettable performances. Its infamous Russian roulette sequences remain some of the most intense moments in cinematic history, symbolizing both the chaos of war and its devastating effects. At the 51st Academy Awards, The Deer Hunter won five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor for Christopher Walken. But its win wasn’t without controversy—some hailed it as a masterpiece, while others criticized its depiction of the Vietnam War. So, is The Deer Hunter one of the greatest war films ever made? Or is it too emotionally punishing to revisit? Let us know your thoughts!

Welcome to Worthy’s Top 10 Films of 2024! From unraveling the mysteries of the Vatican to exploring a troubled marriage to reimagining a horror classic, 2024 showcases the incredible diversity of this year’s filmmaking. Together, they prove that cinematic excellence wears many hats—sometimes a cassock, sometimes a fur-lined cloak, and sometimes, well...nothing at all!  The Worthy Boys are discussing 2024’s biggest surprises and disappointments, sharing thoughts on movies that soared beyond expectations and those that left us wanting more. From epic sagas to intimate character studies, we’re here to reflect on the films that made us laugh, cry, and scream. Of course, we want to hear from you, too! Share your favorite films from 2024 with us on our Instagram @worthypodcast or via email at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

It's the 50th Academy Awards and the 50th episode of Worthy's journey through all the Best Picture winners! Ben and Jon start off the podcast with their own awards, The Worthies, for the best of the Best Picture winners from the 41st to the 50th Academy Awards. The Worthy Boys then dive into the 1977 Best Picture winner, Annie Hall from Woody Allen. Is Annie Hall worthy of the Best Picture award of 1977? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

A merc with a mouth, talking emotions, and animated villains ruled the summer box office, but was it enough to keep the industry afloat? Hollywood’s strikes and corporate battles continued to reshape the landscape as their ripple effects disrupted the release schedule, with projects delayed as the industry recovered from months of halted production. Amid a wave of delayed releases and schedule reshuffling, did the summer box office live up to expectations?

The Worthy Boys are getting taped up to fight as we’re celebrating the Best Picture of 1976, Rocky!  This film is not just a sports drama but a narrative triumph, brilliantly capturing the underdog spirit of its time. Led by Sylvester Stallone's breakout performance and John G. Avildsen's masterful direction, Rocky stands as a cinematic 70’s  milestone. It's an inspiring story that resonates with audiences even today, demonstrating the power of perseverance and hope. Stallone, in a role that has since become legendary, guides us through Rocky Balboa's journey from obscurity to the boxing ring, backed by Bill Conti’ soundtrack that underscores the film's emotional depth. This film not only ingrains itself in the hearts of viewers but also marks a pivotal moment for the Academy. In the gritty streets of Philadelphia, Rocky masterfully weaves a tale of resilience that challenges the odds and urges us to dream, to fight, and ultimately, to triumph. The film's impact was undeniable, winning three major categories: Best Picture, Director, and Editing, a rare and commendable achievement in Academy Awards history. Sylvester Stallone, who also wrote the screenplay, received nominations for both Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay, showcasing his multifaceted talent. His role in bringing Rocky to life exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit against the greatest of odds. Is Rocky worthy of the Best Picture of 1976? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com.

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

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

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!

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

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.

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

Join the Worthy Boys and a special guest to review the best films of Summer 2023 along with the biggest stories of the summer – plus what to look forward to in the fall and winter!  The Atomic Bomb, Spidermen, and millennial pink rule the summer box office but is this enough to keep theaters afloat another year? Strikes and greedy CEOs fuel the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood and the motion picture business as the writing and actors strike pushes past three months with no end in sight. With pushbacks and indefinite delays on the horizon, did the summer box office make up for what looks to be a lackluster fall movie season?  

Ben and Jon are going to make you an offer that you can't refuse, a breakdown of the 45th Best Picture winner "The Godfather". The gangster epic is the focal point of this episode as the Worthy Boys dive deep with the fishes to discuss the aspects of the films production.  The film brings a heavy weight because of it's popularity and rank among the all-time best films. Ben and Jon debate if the film is Worthy of it's recognition as a top film and which parts stand out the most to them. Stay tuned throughout this episode as our Worthy hosts give you a behind the scenes look of the film as well as the events that occurred at the 45th Academy Awards! Is The Godfather worthy of the Best Picture award of 1972? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com

The Worthy Boys are on the beat tracking down a large shipment of heroin in the Big Apple as we’re discussing the 44th Best Picture The French Connection! Gene Hackman stars as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in this French new wave-inspired cop drama that went on to inspire the genre. Also, hear Ben and Jon break down the Oscar winners of the night like Jane Fonda and Charlie Chaplin.  In perfect timing, The French Connection and its digital streaming offering were brought into question recently when eagle-eyed viewers noticed stealth edits made to the 1971 classic The French Connection, which is owned by Disney and being streamed by the Criterion Channel. Catch the episode to hear our take on censoring this iconic Best Picture and whether this was a good idea or not!  Is The French Connection worthy of the Best Picture award of 1971? Tell us how we’re wrong at worthysubmissions@gmail.com