What Is 1970 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1970 National Board of Review Awards recognized excellence in filmmaking during a transformative year in cinema. As one of the oldest and most respected film honors in the United States, the NBR has highlighted influential films since 1929. The 1970 awards reflected a shift toward more personal, character-driven narratives amid the New Hollywood era.

Winners were selected by a panel of film enthusiasts, academics, and professionals associated with the National Board of Review. The awards were announced in December 1970, with the formal ceremony held in January 1971 in New York City. These honors often serve as early indicators of Oscar contenders and critical acclaim.

• Best Picture: 'The Reivers' won top honors, a Mississippi-set comedy-drama starring Steve McQueen and based on William Faulkner’s novel.
• Best Actor: Ryan O'Neal received the award for his emotionally resonant performance in the romantic drama 'Love Story.'
• Best Actress: Glenda Jackson was honored for her intense portrayal of a complex woman in 'Women in Love.'
• Top Films: Other acclaimed films recognized included 'Five Easy Pieces,' 'The Conformist,' and 'The Last Picture Show.'
• International Recognition: The NBR also named 'Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion' as Best Foreign Language Film, highlighting Italian cinema.

How It Works

The National Board of Review evaluates films based on artistic merit, storytelling, and cultural impact, with no formal nomination process. A jury views a wide range of domestic and international releases before selecting winners through discussion and consensus.

• Selection Panel: Composed of film scholars, critics, and New York-based cinema professionals who meet annually to deliberate. Membership is by invitation only.
• Film Eligibility: Films must have had a theatrical release in the U.S. during the calendar year, typically between January and December 1970.
• Categories: Awards include Best Picture, Actor, Actress, Director, and Top 10 Films, plus foreign and documentary categories.
• Voting Method: Winners are chosen through group discussion and informal consensus, not a ranked ballot or vote tally.
• Timing: Winners are announced in early December, making the NBR one of the first major awards of the season.
• Ceremony: The awards dinner was held in January 1971, where recipients received plaques and public recognition.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 1970 NBR Awards compared with other major honors of the season:

The NBR's choice of 'The Reivers' as Best Picture diverged from other groups, reflecting its independent taste. While 'Patton' dominated the Oscars and Golden Globes, the NBR often favors nuanced storytelling over spectacle. Glenda Jackson’s sweep across multiple awards underscored her standout performance in 'Women in Love.'

Why It Matters

The 1970 NBR Awards highlighted the growing diversity of American cinema and helped elevate performances that might have been overshadowed by bigger studio releases. As an early-season award, it influences Oscar momentum and media attention for select films.

• Prestige: Winning an NBR award enhances a film’s credibility and boosts its awards campaign visibility.
• Historical Record: The 1970 list captures a pivotal moment in film history, marking the rise of auteur-driven cinema.
• Actor Recognition: Ryan O'Neal’s win helped solidify his status as a leading man during a competitive era.
• International Spotlight: Honoring Italian film 'Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion' broadened U.S. audience awareness.
• Industry Influence: Studios use NBR wins in marketing campaigns to attract wider audiences and critics.
• Cultural Impact: The awards reflected shifting social themes, including gender roles and personal freedom in 1970s cinema.

Ultimately, the 1970 National Board of Review Awards serve as a valuable lens into the cinematic landscape of the time, celebrating artistry and storytelling that continue to influence filmmakers today.