2023 Oscar season kicks off with our hot takes on contenders — and Will Smith’s ‘Emancipation’

For the first episode of our new season of the ‘The Awardist,’ Entertainment Weekly executive editor and ‘Awardist’ podcast host Gerrad Hall is joined by executive editor Clarissa Cruz, and they welcome back to the EW family Dave Karger, who joins the ‘Awardist’ team as awards correspondent/columnist. The three dive into the fall festival circuit and break down which movies emerged as contenders, plus which movies that debuted earlier in the year are fighting for a spot. Plus, we discuss Harry Styles’ quick entry and exit from the awards race, and question why ‘Emancipation’ starring Will Smith is even being released this year. For complete awards coverage, go to EW.com/awardist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Om Podcasten

Buckle up, it's time to turn on the TV for Emmys season! And, of course, Entertainment Weekly’s The Awardist podcast has you covered. From the early contenders to the unexpected gems, we are discussing it all. Join EW’s editorial director Gerrad Hall, and his opinionated co-hosts every Thursday to keep up with the long road to TV's biggest night. This season is packed with interviews with Sterling K. Brown, Jean Smart, Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, and so much more. Participate in our weekly polls on @EW on instagram and don't miss our EW Hot takes and "Oughta Get A Nod" advocacy picks every episode. The Awardist drops every Thursday, wherever you get your podcasts, and visit ew.com/theawardist for more. Follow The Awardist now so you don’t miss a thing.