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)

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1989 - “Time For Oscars!”