State of Disgrace: 'Crash' (2005) and 'Green Book' (2018)

For our Unique Best Picture Winner "Two-Shot" episode, Madeline and Julian finally see (and Emilio rewatches) two of the more upsetting upset winners of the Academy Award's last twenty years, Paul Haggis' passion project 'Crash' and Peter Farrelly's mismatched-buddy-road-trip picture 'Green Book'. They reflect on what social conditions existed that might have led to their ascension to Best Picture consideration, as well as what was internal (and in some cases endemic) within the Academy that put these films over the top. The trio is firmly in agreement that the racial themes of 'Crash', while important to consider, are handled so poorly and lazily rendered on screen. With very few exceptions, the redeeming qualities of 'Crash' are practically non-existent. And while Emilio agrees with the others that 'Green Book' is not Best Picture worthy, he makes a case for why this movie is a little better than its current reputation would have you think it is. If you enjoy our podcast, please consider writing us a positive review on your podcast platform of choice. It really helps us be shared and enjoyed by others! Follow us on IG and TikTok! @sleeplesscinematicpod Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com! On Letterboxd? Follow Julian @julian_barthold and Madeline @patronessofcats