What Is 1929 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1929 National Board of Review Awards marked the inaugural year of honors presented by the National Board of Review (NBR), an organization founded to promote cinematic excellence through critical evaluation. These awards recognized the most outstanding films and performances released between 1928 and 1929, highlighting achievements in a pivotal era of American cinema.

As one of the earliest film award systems, the NBR Awards predated the Academy Awards, establishing a tradition of critical recognition that continues today. The 1929 awards were announced in December of that year, setting a precedent for year-end critical assessments of film.

• Best Picture:The Patriot, a historical drama about Tsar Paul I of Russia, was directed by Maurice Tourneur and produced by Paramount Pictures.
• Best Actor:Emil Jannings won for dual performances in The Last Command and The Patriot, showcasing his dramatic range in silent film.
• Best Actress:Janet Gaynor was honored for her performances in 7th Heaven, Sunrise, and Street Angel, all released in 1927–1928.
• Top Films: The NBR listed 10 outstanding films, including Steamboat Bill, Jr., The Circus, and West of Zanzibar.
• Historical Significance: The 1929 awards were the first ever issued by the NBR, establishing a critical benchmark ahead of the Oscars.

How It Works

The National Board of Review evaluates films based on artistic merit, technical achievement, and cultural impact, with members voting on annual honorees. The process involves screening, discussion, and consensus-building among its board of film critics and scholars.

• Best Picture:The Patriot was selected for its ambitious production design and nuanced portrayal of political intrigue in imperial Russia.
• Best Actor: Emil Jannings received the award for his powerful dual performances in emotionally complex roles during the final year of silent cinema.
• Best Actress: Janet Gaynor was recognized for her triple role achievement in three major Fox productions, which also earned her the first Oscar.
• Top Ten Films: The NBR published a list of 10 distinguished films, reflecting a broad range of genres and studios.
• Non-Competitive: Unlike the Oscars, the NBR does not use a nomination system; winners are announced without prior shortlists.
• Timing: The 1929 awards were announced in December 1929, influencing early critical discourse on film excellence.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares the 1929 National Board of Review Awards with the first Academy Awards, held in 1929 for the same eligibility period.

The comparison reveals both overlap and divergence in critical and industry recognition. While Jannings and Gaynor won both NBR and Academy honors, The Patriot and Wings differed as top film choices, reflecting distinct evaluation criteria.

Why It Matters

The 1929 National Board of Review Awards represent a foundational moment in American film criticism and award culture. By recognizing artistic excellence independently of studio influence, the NBR helped shape public perception of cinema as a serious art form.

• Historical Precedent: The 1929 awards were the first annual honors issued by the NBR, setting a model for future critical recognition.
• Cultural Impact: Recognition by the NBR helped elevate silent films as culturally significant works during a transitional period in cinema.
• Influence on Oscars: The NBR’s early establishment provided a critical counterpoint to the Academy’s industry-driven awards.
• Prestige Boost: Winning an NBR award enhanced a film’s reputation and could influence box office performance and legacy.
• Critical Legacy: The board’s selections often highlighted artistically ambitious films over purely commercial successes.
• Ongoing Relevance: The NBR continues to announce year-end awards, maintaining its role as a key influencer in awards season.

Today, the National Board of Review remains a respected voice in film criticism, with its annual awards often seen as early indicators of Oscar contenders. The 1929 awards laid the groundwork for this enduring legacy.