4.18-Author Interview with Nick Spake

4.18-Author Interview with Nick Spake

Author: Jonathan Ytreberg February 24, 2026 Duration: 16:05

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In today's episode, I interview Nick Spake, author of the new book series, Bright and Shiny: A History of Animation at Award Shows.

Listen to hear about how he approached breaking the book up from one long volume into the three separate volumes we have today, the long history of animation and how it permeates nearly every film made today, and what the future or animation might hold in general and when it comes to awards recognition.

Books mentioned in this episode include:

Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:

Follow Nick on Instagram @cartooncontender and visit his website cartooncontender.com for more great content about animation.

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There's a whole century of stories waiting in the Academy's archives, and The Oscar Project Podcast is digging through every single one. Instead of just focusing on the current awards season, this show takes the long view, working its way through every film ever nominated for an Oscar starting all the way back in 1929. Each episode is a deep dive into a specific year or a particular film, unpacking not just the cinematic craft on screen but the historical context that shaped it. You'll hear about forgotten gems, surprising snubs, and how the art of filmmaking has evolved over decades. Alongside these detailed reviews and discussions, the podcast regularly features conversations with filmmakers, historians, and authors who provide unique insights into the industry's past and present. It’s for anyone who loves film history as much as the movies themselves, offering a structured but fascinating journey through Hollywood's most celebrated-and sometimes controversial-moments. Tune in to this thoughtfully crafted podcast for a richer understanding of how the Oscars have reflected, and sometimes directed, the entire trajectory of modern cinema.
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