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!