Young, Black actors in Hollywood -- how do their careers compare to their peers? Why is it that a list of young A-list stars contains so few Black actors? Scott Detrow Marc Rivers Aisha Harris Play AudioListen 9 mins
Amazon's James Bond takeover is met with outrage by British fans of the spy franchise News of Amazon's takeover of the 007 franchise has shaken and stirred James Bond fans in the secret agent's homeland of Britain. Lauren Frayer Play AudioListen 3 mins
How 'Anora' breakout star Yura Borisov crafted a sensitive 'brute' Borisov, who plays the hired henchman Igor in Anora, is the first Russian actor to be nominated for an Oscar in decades. The film has a total of six nominations, including for best picture. Mandalit del Barco Play AudioListen 6 mins
Gene Hackman, who thrived playing the tough guy, dies at 95 Hackman epitomized a 1970s, edgy, tightly wound masculinity. He appeared in more than 100 movies and TV shows, and won Oscars for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven. Neda Ulaby
'Fresh Air' remembers Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman Hackman, who was found dead on Feb. 26, appeared in scores of films, including Bonnie and Clyde, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Originally broadcast in 1999. Terry Gross Play AudioListen 9 mins
Adrien Brody drew on his family's immigration story for his role in 'The Brutalist' Brody is nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor who seeks a fresh start in post-WWII America. Originally broadcast Jan. 7, 2025. Tonya Mosley Play AudioListen 20 mins
Animals are swept up in the 'Flow' of this Oscar-nominated flood film When the flood waters rise, a band of animals takes shelter on a boat, where they have to work together to survive. Flow is a radiant fantasy, where solidarity, not selfishness, can save the day. John Powers Play AudioListen 7 mins
Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong reflect on Trump, power and 'The Apprentice' Stan and Strong are nominated for Oscars for The Apprentice. Stan plays the president early in his career, while Strong plays Trump mentor Roy Cohn. Originally broadcast Feb. 2025, and Dec. 2024. Terry Gross Play AudioListen 21 mins
NPR's movie critic previews Hollywood's biggest night It's Oscars weekend: Time to grab your ballot and mark your picks for Best Everything before Sunday night's Academy Awards telecast. Bob Mondello Play AudioListen 5 mins
The 2025 Oscars: Heavy on speeches, light on politics, and one big winner It was an earnest and effusive evening — and for the most part, Hollywood left politics at home. A lot of films were recognized, but ultimately, it was Anora's night. Linda Holmes
