What Is 1963 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1963 National Board of Review Awards celebrated the finest achievements in filmmaking from the year 1962. Although the awards were announced in December 1963, they recognized films released during the prior calendar year, consistent with the NBR’s annual tradition.

The National Board of Review, founded in 1909, has long served as a respected voice in American cinema, often predicting Oscar contenders. The 1963 awards highlighted a transitional era in film, bridging classic Hollywood storytelling with emerging international influences.

• Best Picture went to David Lean’s epic ‘Lawrence of Arabia’, praised for its sweeping cinematography and ambitious narrative scope.
• Best Director was awarded to David Lean, marking a rare dual win for picture and direction in the same year.
• Best Actor Peter O'Toole earned acclaim for his breakout role as T.E. Lawrence, a performance that launched his international career.
• Best Actress was given to Patricia Neal for her emotionally layered performance in ‘Hud’, a stark Western drama.
• Top Foreign Film honor went to Federico Fellini’s ‘8½’, a groundbreaking Italian film that redefined narrative structure in cinema.

How It Works

The National Board of Review selects its annual honorees through a voting process conducted by its membership of film enthusiasts, academics, and professionals. The organization emphasizes artistic merit over box office success, focusing on performances, direction, and cultural impact.

• Selection Process: A panel of 200+ members views eligible films and submits ballots; winners are determined by plurality vote.
• Eligibility Window: Films must be publicly screened in New York City between January 1 and December 31 of the qualifying year.
• Announcement Timing: Winners are revealed in early December, positioning the NBR as one of the first groups to influence awards season.
• Categories: The NBR awards include Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, Supporting roles, and Top Foreign Films, among others.
• No Ceremony: Unlike other awards, the NBR does not host a televised event; winners are announced via press release.
• Historical Precedent: Since 1929, the NBR has maintained consistent standards, making it one of the oldest film honors in the U.S.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 1963 NBR Awards compare with other major film honors of the era:

The alignment between the NBR, Golden Globes, and Oscars in 1963 was rare and highlighted the overwhelming critical consensus around ‘Lawrence of Arabia’. The film’s technical mastery and Peter O’Toole’s performance were universally lauded, making it a landmark year for cinematic achievement. The NBR’s early announcement helped solidify the film’s momentum during awards season.

Why It Matters

The 1963 National Board of Review Awards played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of awards season and cementing the legacy of several iconic films. By recognizing international cinema and bold directorial visions, the NBR helped broaden American audiences’ appreciation for global storytelling.

• Boosted Oscar Chances: Winning the NBR often signals strong Academy Award potential, as seen with ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ winning 7 Oscars.
• Highlighted International Cinema: The Top Foreign Film award for ‘8½’ introduced American audiences to avant-garde European filmmaking.
• Launched Careers: Peter O'Toole’s NBR win helped establish him as a leading man in Hollywood.
• Validated Epic Filmmaking: Recognition of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ affirmed the cultural value of large-scale historical epics.
• Influenced Critics: The NBR’s early timing allows it to shape critical discourse before year-end lists are finalized.
• Preserved Film History: The NBR’s annual records provide scholars with insight into evolving cinematic tastes and trends.

Today, the 1963 awards remain a benchmark for critical consensus and a testament to the power of film as both art and cultural commentary.