What Is 1938 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1938 National Board of Review Awards recognized the most outstanding achievements in cinema from that year, continuing a tradition that began in 1929. As one of the earliest film award bodies in the United States, the National Board of Review (NBR) used its platform to highlight films of artistic and social significance.

Unlike the Academy Awards, the NBR's selections were based on critical consensus rather than industry voting. The 1938 awards were announced in December, ahead of the Oscars, giving them influence during the early awards season. These honors helped elevate the visibility of select films and performances during a transformative era in Hollywood.

• Best Picture was awarded to *The Citadel*, a British drama about a principled doctor navigating corruption in the medical field, released by MGM in 1938.
• Best Director went to John Ford for *The Informer*, a black-and-white crime film set against the backdrop of Irish nationalism and betrayal.
• Best Actor was given to Victor Jory for his performance in *They Gave Him a Gun*, a crime drama exploring the psychological toll of vigilantism.
• Best Actress was awarded to Fay Bainter for her dual role in *Jezebel*, portraying both a headstrong Southern belle and her more reserved sister.
• The National Board of Review also honored foreign language films, naming *La Grande Illusion* by Jean Renoir as Best Foreign Film of 1938.

How It Works

The National Board of Review evaluates films based on artistic merit, narrative strength, and cultural relevance, with a committee of film critics and industry professionals making selections annually. The process emphasizes critical analysis over popularity or box office performance.

• Selection Committee: A panel of film historians, critics, and academics reviews eligible films released in the calendar year. Members vote independently to determine winners.
• Eligibility Period: Films must have had a theatrical release in New York City between January 1 and December 31, 1938, to qualify for consideration.
• Categories: The 1938 awards included Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Foreign Film, with no competitive voting but consensus-based decisions.
• Announcement Timing: Winners were revealed in December 1938, several weeks before the Oscars, giving the NBR early influence in shaping award narratives.
• Public Recognition: The awards were publicized through press releases and film journals, helping to boost box office and critical attention for honored films.
• No Formal Ceremony: Unlike modern awards, the 1938 NBR honors were not presented at a gala; winners were notified by mail or press announcement.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 1938 NBR winners and corresponding Oscar winners, highlighting overlaps and distinctions in critical and industry recognition.

The comparison reveals that while the NBR and Academy Awards sometimes diverged, they occasionally aligned on major performances—such as Fay Bainter and Bette Davis both being honored for *Jezebel*, though in different ways. The NBR's focus on international cinema also set it apart, recognizing *La Grande Illusion* during a time when foreign films rarely received attention in the U.S.

Why It Matters

The 1938 National Board of Review Awards played a crucial role in shaping critical discourse and elevating films with social and artistic value during a pivotal year in cinema history. These awards helped bridge international film appreciation and American audiences, promoting diverse storytelling.

• Early Recognition: The December 1938 announcement gave films like *The Citadel* a head start in the awards conversation, influencing Oscar campaigns.
• Critical Influence: The NBR’s reputation lent credibility to films that might otherwise have been overshadowed by commercial blockbusters.
• Support for International Cinema: By honoring *La Grande Illusion*, the NBR spotlighted anti-war themes and European artistry during rising global tensions.
• Legacy of John Ford: Ford’s win reinforced his status as a leading director, preceding his later Oscar successes.
• Platform for Performers: Victor Jory and Fay Bainter gained wider recognition, boosting their careers in a competitive industry.
• Historical Record: The awards provide insight into 1930s cultural values, showcasing films that addressed ethics, class, and national identity.

Today, the 1938 awards remain a valuable reference for film historians and enthusiasts, illustrating how critical opinion shaped the legacy of classic cinema.