24-Hour Movie Marathon Madness: Surviving AMC's Oscars Best Picture Showcase

Each film enthusiast has their unique Oscar ritual, yet none can match the dedication displayed at AMC Theatres’ annual Best Picture Showcase. This is an all-day, 24-hour movie marathon featuring nominees, and you might wonder who on earth would opt for nine films in a row (one after another). So, driven by curiosity and perhaps a touch of masochism, we decided to explore this phenomenon. We voluntarily admitted ourselves into the AMC Empire 25 in Times Square, devoting our entire weekend to Auditorium 7 for an unparalleled test of endurance.

Here’s the rundown:

We plan on staying in the AMC Theatres located within Times Square for the entire duration of the Best Picture Marathon. This event kicks off on Saturday at noon and concludes around 1:00 PM on Sunday, with a total runtime of approximately 24 hours and 50 minutes. Out of the ten nominees for Best Picture, nine will be shown consecutively (with “Emilia Pérez” being absent since it was available to stream on Netflix). There will be breaks of 10 minutes duration between each movie, as well as a 45-minute dinner break. In case you were wondering, yes, this is indeed a 24-hour marathon! To make things even more difficult, we’re aiming to only consume food and drinks that are available at the AMC concession stands.

Supplies:

Ethan’s Packing List: Pillow for the neck, a cover, a toothbrush, a computer, charging cables, Altoids mints, nasal spray, and extra clothes.
Rebecca’s Packing List: Disinfectant wipes, painkillers (just in case), anxiety medication (let’s hope it won’t be needed), earplugs, toothbrush and toothpaste, antiperspirant, laptop and chargers along with some medication.

Attendance report:

Almost every chair in “The Brutalist” was occupied when it began, and we’ll monitor who remains for the rest of the evening.

Arrival (11:45 a.m.)

Rebecca Rubin: Ethan, I used to believe that the most challenging ordeal we’d share would be our near-miss with lightning while flying home from the Toronto Film Festival. However, it seems journalism has other plans. Given my inherent apprehension and constant exhaustion, I’m not exactly hopeful about this situation. Yet, you have a knack for tackling demanding tasks. Remember, you braved a 3:15 a.m. IMAX screening of “Dune: Part Two.” How are you faring these days?

Ethan Shanfeld: I’m feeling a bit worn out, but watching 24 hours of movies isn’t exactly strenuous work for me. Our approach to preparation was surprisingly casual: We didn’t give it much thought beforehand at all. It’s moments like these that make me wish I had the ability to send my more energetic, youthful self to the theater instead.

Before we begin, I’d like to offer an apology now for the individual I may become by the end of this.

“The Brutalist” (12:00 pm)

Shanfeld: Let’s discuss the extra 20 minutes due to trailers, which made this event longer than expected. Combined with Nicole Kidman and that dreadful Coke commercial, it seems like a harsh and extreme penalty for those who chose to endure it. Moreover, there was no recognition of our upcoming adventure. I expected AMC to send someone to wish us luck on our upcoming journey.

I concur. It was surprisingly lacking in fanfare. In other words, it was akin to free-climbing El Capitan without ropes in the world of entertainment.

We forked out $75 (pre-tax) for a cinema ticket, yet we sported golden bracelets! One would think we’d be escorted to our seats and served a welcoming drink.

The overall atmosphere seemed strikingly free from exaggerated or overly dramatic elements. Despite our collective 25-hour stay at the cinema, there was no hint that any of us found it even slightly bizarre or unusual.

As a passionate cinephile, I felt the energy in the room was electric. It wasn’t just casual movie-watchers discussing the Oscar nominees; it was dedicated film enthusiasts, thrill-seekers who live for the awards. The discussions weren’t about casual opinions, they were debates about the optimal screen time required to merit a Best Supporting Actor nomination. It seemed like a widespread issue, this ‘category fraud’ was rampant.

Regarding the film, we’ve both previously watched “The Brutalist,” and though I didn’t mind revisiting it, I wasn’t particularly thrilled. It’s the longest film of the day, running for a total of 3 hours and 34 minutes with a 15-minute intermission, so it made sense to watch it first and get it over with. However, if László Tóth’s niece is correct that it’s more about the destination than the journey, I sincerely hope she’s mistaken for my sake. This seems like a painful ordeal if that’s the case.

Break #1 (3:55 p.m.)

Rubin: I’m sorry, Ethan. I realize you wanted us to stick to the AMC diet, but I knew I needed real food, so I secretly brought a turkey avocado wrap from the convenience store near my apartment. I ate it during the first break, by the way, which was much shorter than an intermission in “The Brutalist.” It seems silly to say this, but those breaks are too short! The concessions were down the escalator, so I barely had time to slip downstairs and illegally get some water for my Stanley. To be honest, I’m not sure if that’s allowed, but I don’t like getting into trouble, so I was trying to keep things low-key about my drink situation.

Shanfeld: Could you watch out for the water patrol officers for me. I bought a pepperoni pizza flatbread and a Diet Coke, which I quickly enjoyed as people reentered the theater. One of our group members passed by and commented to no one in particular about the length of the movie: “This film is simply too prolonged.” It seemed like an odd criticism considering they had paid for a nine-part feature.

“Nickel Boys” (4:05 p.m.)

Rubin: “Nickel Boys” and “I’m Still Here” were the only films on the schedule I hadn’t watched yet, so it was great one of them was shown earlier during the event to prevent my impending madness. Around 45 minutes into the movie, someone in the row ahead of us had already fallen asleep. “Hehe, wimp… “ I chuckled inside, fully aware that my turn would come soon enough.

During the middle of things, I left to use the restroom and observed an individual entering with a popcorn container, which he subsequently placed on top of the urinal before urinating. Quite unsettling, and it was broad daylight at the time.

Break #2 (6:25 p.m.)

Rubin: I’ve been delaying indulging in junk food to ward off the eventual feeling of discomfort. However, during our break, I succumbed and we ordered chicken strips. The calorie count for these (970 calories without sauce…) was rather unforgivingly displayed on the menu. I chose not to check the calories in my drink, Coke Icee, because by then, it seemed better not to know. Sadly, I felt quite unwell after consuming the chicken strips.

Shanfeld: I thought they were stadium-level delicious, but that could be the delusion setting in.

“A Complete Unknown” (7:10 p.m.)

While many enjoy “The Brutalist” and “Nickel Boys,” I found “A Complete Unknown” to be quite refreshing after those two. In fact, I’ve taken pleasure in each movie even more upon a second viewing.

To be honest, I’m not entirely sure about my feelings towards “A Complete Unknown” as I spent most of it under the influence of a sugar rush from slushies. However, there was something delightfully synchronous about our reactions during “It Ain’t Me Babe,” which seemed to resonate with those around us. Our neighbors returned midway through the movie, carrying Starbucks drinks and a large bag of sweets from “It’s Sugar.” It appeared as though we all needed an energy boost.

Cinema Lover Here: I’ve misplaced count on the number of diet sodas I’ve had today. I can already feel a looming discomfort in my stomach, and it’s not something I’m eagerly anticipating.

Me: I can’t help but notice that Timothée Chalamet has quite stylish, elongated fingernails. I’ll definitely be paying attention to the way they’re groomed in “Dune Part Two.

Shanfeld: That’s just the ’60s, man.

Break #3 (9:30 p.m.)

Shanfeld: Right before “A Complete Unknown” ended, you nudged me to turn around.

Three staff members from AMC were positioned near the entrance. This was the initial occasion when someone from beyond our auditorium recognized us.

Shanfeld: They had trivia!

Rubin: Ethan, it seems you correctly guessed the original title of the movie, “Going Electric.” I must admit, I thought it was a bit of an advantage for you to know these details since it’s part of our responsibilities. However, your kind gesture of giving away a Monica Barbaro character poster to the woman behind us was truly touching. I believe that act of kindness will stay with her forever.

Shanfeld: I told her, “Don’t think twice, it’s all right.”

“Anora” (9:40 p.m.)

After purchasing tickets, we had been looking forward to savoring cocktails at the MacGuffins bar, as it was extensively promoted on AMC’s website. Unfortunately, we were deceived! There is no MacGuffins Bar; instead, there’s a common menu offering just four white wines, two reds, and some beers. We all ended up choosing Pinot Grigio.

Grigio ladies! I found “Anora” to be a great film for sipping wine casually. It served as a soothing balm amidst Ani’s chaotic pursuit across Brooklyn. The label on the canned wine boasted it as “light and crisp, with vibrant citrus and lime undertones.” However, it felt like a swift onset of a headache upon tasting it.

Additionally, we picked up a bucket of popcorn for everyone. I proposed giving you some of my Sweetarts Ropes, but you chose not to accept.

During much of the film, a man in the front row was checking out the food and drink choices on his AMC app, which I found quite distracting. I felt like yelling at him, “Keep your expectations in check! The place doesn’t even exist – it’s just a MacGuffin!” (A MacGuffin is a plot device that propels the story forward but has no real significance of its own.)

Break #4 (12 a.m.)

Just past midnight, an employee from AMC informed us that the concession stand would be shut for an hour and the entire building would be secured throughout the night. A security guard was posted outside the auditorium to open the balcony doors for smokers. I only wish the fellow ahead of me who was producing vape smoke during Mikey Madison’s intense scene in “Anora” had paid attention.

Rubin: I was satisfied with the safety precautions, but unhappy that the guards had such a terrible work schedule. Before we switched to lockdown, we attempted to navigate the six-story building. The design is puzzling since the escalators don’t link every level, so we believed using the elevator would be simpler. Unfortunately, we were mistaken.

When you pressed the elevator button without asking, the person who had likely been waiting there for quite some time became upset and scolded you. This kind of behavior is frowned upon within elevator etiquette circles.

Rubin: She acted like I launched a nuclear warhead: “Ughhhhh, great.”

“The Substance” (12:10 a.m.)

First things first, let’s get straight to the point. The seats don’t allow you to recline, and that’s just unfair. Knowing in advance that we would be spending an entire day in these so-called “plush rockers” might have made me think twice about taking this assignment.

In “The Brutalist,” my discomfort in my seat began before the Statue of Liberty was turned upside down. The cushioned rocking chairs, despite their comfort, failed to provide the rocking motion I expected, either literally or metaphorically. From the outset, I knew I’d need to lie down eventually. This film was when my boredom set in. However, after that miniature can of wine, I felt quite content with myself.

John: At about 1:30 a.m., I went downstairs to fill up my water bottle, and found you resting on the grime-covered floor. Now, I’m not here to judge, but it’s rather unsanitary of you to do that.

Break #5 (2:30 a.m.)

Trivia is back! The questions appeared more challenging, but they increased the stakes – these posters were for “The Brutalist.” We should have been able to answer the length of the Cannes standing ovation for “The Substance.

When no one managed to answer correctly, the hosts surprisingly shifted the focus to an easier question. They asked, “Which actor received nominations for both an Oscar and a Golden Globe for ‘The Substance’?” After a quick check of his notes, the manager confirmed that the correct answer was indeed Demi Moore.

Rubin: Additionally, we gathered the nerve to converse with those nearby – the auditorium was still quite bustling at that moment – and they provided us with valuable suggestions!

John Doe proposed: A seasoned participant in the Oscar’s Best Movie Exhibition advised us to maintain a balanced consumption of sugar and caffeine, avoiding excessive amounts of both.

John: He had a great passion for proteins. I’m certain he would have been thrilled to learn that I managed to include a turkey wrap in my meal.

“Conclave” (2:40 a.m.)

Twice during “Conclave,” I found myself dozing off at a reasonable hour, suggesting I wasn’t expecting much from myself at 2:40 in the morning. Despite the Coke Icee I had consumed, I couldn’t manage to fall asleep – not even a blink. It seemed others were more fortunate; it was challenging to make out in the darkened theater, but I estimated around a dozen people sleeping. Many were awake and making audible responses to the events on screen related to the papal antics.

During “Conclave”, I had a short sleep, only to be awoken abruptly by the unexpected sound of an explosion. – Spoiler alert!

Break #6 (4:40 a.m.)

Shanfeld: Trivia is back, and I am miserable.

The intriguing query that caught my interest was about the novel “Nickel Boys” and its source material. The answer to this question is simply, “The Nickel Boys.” Here’s hoping the victor appreciated their Glinda poster prize!

The energy level in here is incredibly high; I expected more folks to leave after “The Substance,” but the auditorium remains almost completely packed.

When I heard the woman beside me remark, “I’ve been eagerly waiting; it’s been three months since I last watched ‘Dune 2’,” it made me chuckle.

“Dune: Part Two” (4:50 a.m.)

Shanfeld: I want to go home.

As a dedicated film enthusiast, I’ve abandoned my attempts to rest and instead found solace in the cinematic spectacle unfolding before me. Normally, I boast about my ability to catch a wink anywhere, anytime, but the volume here is almost unbearable. I’ve inserted earplugs not because I expected them to mute anything, but rather out of genuine concern for preserving my eardrums from potential damage.

In simpler terms, we’re stuck in a situation similar to that of the “Saw” movies. The noise from the theater is incredibly loud, echoing down the hallway so powerfully that not even those who live in noisy apartments can manage to sleep peacefully.

Rubin: When the movie was over, I noticed you had both shoes off…

Shanfeld: No comment.

You might be curious to know this, but in “Dune: Part Two,” Timmy is primarily seen wearing gloves. However, I found an interesting detail – his fingernails appeared shorter on Arrakis compared to when he was in Greenwich Village.>

Just a little trivia, when it comes to “Dune: Part Two,” Timmy is usually seen with gloves on. I noticed that his fingernails were significantly shorter while on Arrakis than they were in Greenwich Village.

Break #7 (7:35 a.m.)

I’ve found that this entire situation feels similar to an extended air journey, yet lacking the complimentary snacks such as pretzels and ginger ale.

It appeared that the security guard stationed outside our auditorium was taking a nap in her seat. Just to clarify, I absolutely do not hold any responsibility against her for this action.

“I’m Still Here” (7:45 a.m.)

Rubin: I’ll point out the obvious: The film’s title feels like a cruel taunt at this hour.

Shanfeld: Absolutely.

Rubin: Overconfident, I thought I’d stay awake throughout the marathon. But lo and behold, I dozed off just as a movie I haven’t watched yet came on. I apologize for missing it, Fernanda Torres. I promise to make up for it eventually, but not today.

Shanfeld: You have bestowed shame upon Brazil. It will not forget.

Before I lost consciousness, I made you agree to get bagels and coffee delivered through DoorDash with me. I couldn’t stand another meal from the food stalls, and I knew we needed to eat before we had to leave the place at 1 p.m. I felt apologetic: I was really ruining that bagel wrapper during a quite serious movie.

Shanfeld: Don’t worry. Theater etiquette went out the window at least three movies ago.

Break #8 (10 a.m.)

We’re nearing the final stage and the atmosphere is growing tense. It seems someone from the front row moved to an empty seat near one of the long-time participants in the rear and immediately fell asleep. I picked up on some chatter outside the restrooms: “‘If you’re going to sleep throughout, head back to the front.’”

(Note that “marathon vets” was replaced with “long-time participants,” “tensions are bubbling up” was changed to “the atmosphere is growing tense,” and “overheard the gossip circulating outside the restrooms” became “picked up on some chatter outside the restrooms.”)

In the auditorium, I queried those nearby about their reasons for joining the fight against sleep. Their response, translated to today’s youth lingo, was simply: “It’s all about the storyline.

“Wicked” (10:10 a.m.)

Rubin: Every time I watch “Wicked” in the theater, it’s like receiving a comforting embrace from Dulcibear. If I couldn’t be here, I’d likely be playing its soundtrack on my own.

“Shanfeld’s words, ‘But of course I’ll care for Nessa,’ have been stuck in my mind for days now. By this time, the crowd had dwindled a bit. We were part of the Shiz Academy holdouts. Despite the musical being two hours and 40 minutes long, why not endure it?

Rubin stated: I’ve managed to sleep for just an hour in total, and the songs “Popular” and “Defying Gravity” take on a new meaning when I’m at my most delirious.

Yesterday, someone sent me a message inquiring about “the previous evening,” but I was left utterly puzzled because there wasn’t any “previous evening” where I am right now – I’m currently residing on a different planet.

Final Takeaways (12:50 p.m.)

After Elphaba reached that powerful note and left Emerald City, the crowd finally applauded – it seemed less like an appreciation for “Wicked” and more like a celebration of ourselves. Rebecca, how are you feeling?

In my own words: I reached a difficult moment during “Dune: Part Two,” but I managed to persevere far better than I had expected, without even needing Xanax. It’s as if I’m experiencing an athlete’s euphoria. The people milling around in the lobby have no clue about the remarkable achievement we’ve made together. Yet, something you mentioned as we left the theater for the last time was utterly mind-blowing.

Shanfeld:I indicated that I was capable of completing three more tasks, should it be necessary. Interestingly, I currently feel alright, but there was a moment, roughly between the Vatican and Arrakis, where I felt quite close to expiring.

Despite the fact that I enjoy all these films, I disliked each and every one presented here in this manner. Should I repeat this experience? Definitely not. Would I advise a friend to do it? Absolutely not. However, if I were to suggest it to an adversary, I certainly would!

Shanfeld: I can’t wait to go home, snuggle up on the couch and watch “Emilia Pérez.”

2025-03-02 22:20

24-Hour Movie Marathon Madness: Surviving AMC’s Oscars Best Picture Showcase