This week we welcome Kyle Aaronson, a film major, to explain some of the dynamics of the Academy Awards and the 2015 Oscars in particular. In our discussion, we examine the roles that actors, directors and film-makers play in determining the popularity and relevance of films. We also talk about the Academy as an organization and its tendencies and general composition.

Further Reading:

Complete List of Nominees

Grantland, "Is the Best Picture Race Already Over? Hollywood Self-Obsession and the ‘Birdman’ Juggernaut"

Reuters, ‘Boyhood’ vs. ‘Birdman’: Inside Hollywood’s hive mind