What Is 1969 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1969 National Board of Review Awards recognized the most outstanding achievements in film during that year, continuing a tradition established in 1929. These awards were announced in December 1969 and celebrated both American and international cinema, highlighting performances, direction, and storytelling excellence.

Unlike some other major awards, the NBR does not use a nomination system but instead selects winners and runners-up directly. The awards are chosen by a panel of film professionals, academics, and students, emphasizing artistic merit and cultural impact over box office success.

• Best Picture was awarded to 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' a gritty drama about a Depression-era dance marathon directed by Sydney Pollack.
• Best Director went to John Schlesinger for 'Midnight Cowboy,' a groundbreaking film that later won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
• Best Actor was given to Dustin Hoffman for his emotionally intense portrayal of Ratso Rizzo in 'Midnight Cowboy.'
• Best Actress was awarded to Jane Fonda for her role as a traumatized dance marathon contestant in 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?'.
• Top Foreign Films included 'War and Peace' (USSR), 'The Milky Way' (France), and 'If....' (UK), reflecting global cinematic diversity.

How It Works

The National Board of Review evaluates films based on artistic quality, narrative strength, and cultural relevance, selecting winners without a nomination phase. The process involves screenings, discussions, and consensus-building among its members, culminating in a public announcement each December.

• Selection Panel: The NBR is composed of film enthusiasts, educators, and industry professionals who volunteer their time to review submissions.
• Eligibility Period: Films must be released in the U.S. between January 1 and December 31 of the award year to qualify for consideration.
• Voting Method: Members vote after viewing eligible films, with winners chosen by majority consensus rather than ranked ballots.
• Announcement Timing: The 1969 awards were revealed in December 1969, ahead of the Oscars, giving them early influence in awards season.
• Categories Recognized: The NBR honors Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, Foreign Film, and Top 10 Films, among others.
• Runners-Up: Unlike the Oscars, the NBR often names multiple runners-up in each category, offering a broader view of excellence.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 1969 NBR Awards compare to other major film honors of the era:

The NBR's early announcement gave it significant influence in shaping early awards season momentum. While 'Midnight Cowboy' won the Oscar, the NBR's choice of 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' highlighted its preference for intense, socially conscious dramas. This divergence underscores how different organizations prioritize various aspects of filmmaking, from technical craft to emotional impact.

Why It Matters

The 1969 NBR Awards reflect a pivotal moment in American cinema, as filmmakers began exploring darker, more realistic themes. These awards helped validate bold storytelling and performances that challenged traditional Hollywood norms, paving the way for the New Hollywood era.

• Cultural Impact: Recognizing 'Midnight Cowboy' and 'They Shoot Horses' validated films addressing poverty, alienation, and identity.
• Launchpad for Careers: The awards elevated Dustin Hoffman and John Schlesinger into the top tier of Hollywood talent.
• Influence on Oscars: NBR choices often predict or influence Academy Award outcomes, especially in Best Picture and acting categories.
• Critical Validation: Winning NBR honors helped independent and arthouse films gain wider distribution and audience attention.
• Historical Record: The 1969 awards capture a shift toward realism and social commentary in post-1960s American film.
• Legacy of Recognition: The NBR continues to spotlight under-the-radar performances and international cinema each year.

By honoring films that pushed boundaries, the 1969 National Board of Review Awards played a crucial role in shaping cinematic history and supporting artistic innovation during a transformative decade.