What Is 1981 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1981 National Board of Review Awards celebrated excellence in filmmaking during a transformative year for cinema. Announced in December 1981, these honors highlighted standout performances, direction, and storytelling across a diverse slate of films.

Unlike other awards, the NBR does not present a single 'Best Picture' but instead names a Top 10 list. This approach emphasizes breadth and inclusivity in recognizing cinematic achievement, making it unique among U.S. film awards.

• Chariots of Fire was named the year’s best film, praised for its historical depth and stirring score by Vangelis.
• On Golden Pond earned dual acting honors, with Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn winning for their powerful performances.
• Henry Fonda won Best Actor at age 76, becoming one of the oldest recipients in NBR history.
• Katharine Hepburn won Best Actress at age 74, marking her fourth NBR win and a record-setting achievement.
• The NBR also recognized international films, including Raging Bull and Reds, both American productions with global acclaim.

How It Works

The National Board of Review operates independently of the film industry, selecting winners through a voting process by a panel of film enthusiasts, academics, and professionals. Their selections often predict or influence later Oscar outcomes.

• Selection Process: A committee views hundreds of films annually and meets in December to vote. Each member submits ballots, and winners are determined by majority consensus.
• Top 10 Films: The NBR compiles a list of the year’s 10 best films, emphasizing variety in genre, origin, and theme rather than naming a single winner.
• Acting Awards: Best Actor and Best Actress categories highlight performances deemed most impactful, often favoring dramatic depth over box office success.
• Directing Recognition: The Best Director award honors visionary storytelling; in 1981, Hugh Hudson won for Chariots of Fire.
• Freedom of Expression: The NBR presents a special award for films promoting free speech, reflecting its founding mission in 1909 to defend artistic liberty.
• International Scope: Unlike some U.S.-centric awards, the NBR regularly includes foreign films, as seen with 1981 inclusions like Man of Iron from Poland.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 1981 NBR Awards compare to other major film honors of the year:

The NBR and Academy Awards aligned closely in 1981, especially in acting and top film categories. However, the NBR’s broader list and recognition of international work like Man of Iron show a more inclusive approach compared to the Oscars’ narrower focus.

Why It Matters

The 1981 NBR Awards hold historical significance for shaping early awards season momentum and honoring performances that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. These recognitions often serve as bellwethers for later accolades, including the Oscars.

• Influence on Oscars: NBR winners often go on to win Academy Awards, as seen with Fonda and Hepburn in 1982.
• Prestige: Being named a Top 10 film by the NBR boosts a movie’s visibility during awards season.
• Historical Record: The NBR has documented cinematic excellence since 1909, offering a long-term view of film trends.
• Support for Independent Film: The NBR frequently highlights smaller, artistically bold films overlooked by mainstream awards.
• Cultural Impact: Honors like the Freedom of Expression Award underscore cinema’s role in social discourse.
• Legacy of Excellence: Winning an NBR award enhances a filmmaker’s reputation and career longevity.

By recognizing both popular and independent films, the National Board of Review continues to play a vital role in celebrating the art of cinema.