Atomic Entertainment
Welcome to the inaugural episode of ‘The Oscars: What Were They Thinking?’ In this episode we’re looking at the 1989 Oscars for the films of 1988. This is also the first year Bruce Vilanch was hired to write the telecast. After learning how Bruce got the gig and how his first awards show was almost his last — we get into the awards. The big question is — Does best picture winner Rain Man stand the test of time? Were there any better movies that were nominated that year? Or perhaps, the best movie of that year happened to be a non-nominated film that contained a fusion of live action, animation and a neurotic rabbit. And don’t even get us started about Die Hard — one of the best and most beloved action movies of all time. Join us for an in-depth look at the awards and behind-the-scenes stories about the show — which included an 11-minute, opening musical number that is considered one of the biggest disasters in Oscar history. Oh well, at least Bruce is an excellent driver!
EPISODE 1 (1989 Oscars) - Movies Mentioned
C.C. and Company
Grease
Grease 2
Where the Boys Are ’84
Can’t Stop the Music (Bruce co-wrote)
Great Balls of Fire
Dangerous Liaisons
Rain Man
The Accidental Tourist
Mississippi Burning
Working Girl
A Fish Called Wanda
Cruel Intentions
Last Temptation of Christ
A League of Their Own
Bird
Unforgiven
Million Dollar Baby
Tucker: A Man and his Dreams
Who Framed Roger Rabbit
Die Hard
The Dark Knight
Pelle the Conqueror
The Favourite
The Greatest Show on Earth
A Cry in the Dark
The Accused
Network
Gorillas in the Midst
My Left Foot
Little Dorrit
Unbearable Lightness of Being
Bull Durham
Beetlejuice
HONORABLE MENTION: Triumph of the Spirit (unnamed Auschwitz boxing movie)