What Is 2009 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 2009 National Board of Review Awards recognized outstanding achievements in filmmaking from that year, highlighting excellence in direction, acting, and storytelling. As one of the earliest major award announcements in the film season, the NBR's selections often influence the broader awards conversation, including the Oscars.

Selected by a panel of film enthusiasts, academics, and professionals, the awards reflect a mix of critical acclaim and cultural impact. The 2009 winners were revealed on December 3, 2009, setting the stage for the 2010 awards season.

• Up in the Air was named Best Film, praised for its timely narrative on corporate downsizing and emotional isolation.
• Jason Reitman received the Best Director award for his work on Up in the Air, marking his second NBR win after Juno.
• George Clooney earned the Best Actor award for his layered performance as a corporate consultant facing personal emptiness.
• Meryl Streep won Best Actress for her role in Julie & Julia, capturing the spirit of chef Julia Child with precision.
• The Top 10 Films list included The Hurt Locker, Inglourious Basterds, and District 9, showcasing genre and stylistic diversity.

How It Works

The National Board of Review evaluates films released in the calendar year based on artistic quality, narrative strength, and cultural relevance. A committee watches hundreds of films before selecting winners and compiling a list of top films and performances.

• Best Film:Up in the Air won due to its sharp screenplay, emotional depth, and relevance to the 2008–2009 economic climate.
• Best Director:Jason Reitman was honored for balancing drama and satire while maintaining narrative momentum.
• Best Actor:George Clooney portrayed Ryan Bingham with charisma and vulnerability, earning widespread acclaim.
• Best Actress:Meryl Streep transformed into Julia Child with meticulous vocal and physical imitation.
• Breakthrough Performance:Anna Kendrick earned this honor for her witty, scene-stealing role in Up in the Air.
• Freedom of Expression Award: Given to Capitalism: A Love Story, recognizing its bold critique of financial systems.

Comparison at a Glance

The 2009 NBR Awards compared closely with other major critics’ groups and the eventual Oscar outcomes.

While the NBR and Oscars diverged in top categories, both recognized The Hurt Locker and Inglourious Basterds. The NBR’s early timing gives it influence rather than predictive power, often spotlighting performances and films that gain traction in later awards. For example, both George Clooney and Meryl Streep received Oscar nominations, though they didn’t win. The NBR’s inclusion of documentaries like Capitalism: A Love Story also highlights its broader definition of cinematic excellence compared to the Oscars.

Why It Matters

The 2009 National Board of Review Awards played a pivotal role in shaping early momentum for several Oscar contenders and spotlighted films with cultural resonance. Its recognition often boosts box office and awards visibility, especially for independent and mid-budget films.

• Up in the Air gained significant awards attention after the NBR win, leading to six Oscar nominations.
• The Hurt Locker, though not NBR’s Best Film, benefited from shared placement on the Top 10 list.
• Anna Kendrick’s Breakthrough award elevated her profile, leading to more leading roles.
• The NBR’s Freedom of Expression Award emphasized socially conscious filmmaking.
• Recognition of Quentin Tarantino for Inglourious Basterds reinforced his status as a bold auteur.
• The awards highlighted 2009 as a year of diverse storytelling, from war dramas to personal journeys.

Ultimately, the 2009 NBR Awards celebrated a cinematic year defined by introspection, risk, and narrative innovation. By honoring both mainstream and independent films, the organization reinforced its role as a tastemaker in American cinema.