‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Burns Bright Before Flaming Out. Plus: Best Picture Power Rankings and the Oscar Short Lists!

Sean and Amanda start the show by reacting to the news that the Oscars broadcast will move to YouTube in 2029 and debate whether or not it’s a good move (1:48). Then, they react to the new trailer for Steven Spielberg’s science fiction film Disclosure Day, starring Josh O’Connor and Emily Blunt (12:46). Next, they dive into one of the year’s most anticipated films, James Cameron’s blockbuster sequel Avatar: Fire and Ash. They celebrate its breathtaking action set pieces; criticize its slow pacing, which they felt dragged the movie down; and explain why it’s a real “you’re mileage may vary” type of movie (15:36). Finally, they cover the Oscars short list (43:45) and take stock of what’s rising and falling, before building their final Best Picture Power Rankings of 2025 (1:00:38).

Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins
Producers: Jack Sanders and Chris Thomas