What Is 1987 National Board of Review Awards

Overview

The 1987 National Board of Review Awards recognized excellence in cinematic achievement during the 1987 film season. Administered by the National Board of Review (NBR), a New York-based organization founded in 1909, the awards highlighted standout films, directors, and performances before the broader awards season began.

Unlike many industry honors, the NBR selects winners independently of studio campaigns or box office performance, focusing instead on artistic merit and cultural impact. The 1987 awards were particularly notable for spotlighting international cinema and performances that later gained Oscar recognition.

• 'The Last Emperor' won Best Film, a historical epic that earned nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, in 1988.
• Bernardo Bertolucci received Best Director for 'The Last Emperor,' cementing his status as a leading international filmmaker.
• Jack Nicholson was honored as Best Actor for his role as a cynical anchorman in 'Broadcast News,' a performance that earned an Oscar nomination.
• Cher won Best Actress for 'Moonstruck,' a romantic comedy that showcased her dramatic range and led to an Academy Award win.
• 'Empire of the Sun' and 'Hope and Glory' were named among the Top Ten Films, reflecting the NBR’s appreciation for war-themed narratives.

How It Works

The National Board of Review operates through a voting membership of film enthusiasts, academics, and industry professionals who evaluate films released in the calendar year. Their selections are announced in December, making them one of the earliest indicators of awards season momentum.

• Selection Process: Members view eligible films throughout the year and vote in December. The process is confidential and does not involve public campaigns or lobbying.
• Best Film: Awarded to 'The Last Emperor', a biographical drama about China’s last emperor, Puyi, which also won Best Director.
• Best Actor:Jack Nicholson won for 'Broadcast News,' portraying a veteran TV anchor navigating personal and professional turmoil.
• Best Actress:Cher received the honor for 'Moonstruck,' playing a widow who falls in love with her fiancé’s estranged brother.
• Top Ten Films: Included 'The Last Emperor', 'Broadcast News', 'Moonstruck', 'Empire of the Sun', and 'Hope and Glory', showcasing thematic diversity.
• Special Awards: The NBR occasionally gives special citations; in 1987, John Boorman received one for directing 'Hope and Glory.'

Comparison at a Glance

The 1987 NBR Awards aligned closely with later Academy Award outcomes, particularly in major categories.

This table illustrates a strong correlation between NBR selections and Oscar outcomes. While Nicholson won the NBR award, the Oscars did not give a competitive acting award posthumously to Brando; instead, Sean Connery won Best Supporting Actor. The overlap underscores the NBR’s influence as a predictor of Academy trends.

Why It Matters

The 1987 National Board of Review Awards played a pivotal role in shaping early awards season narratives and validating artistic achievements outside commercial success.

• Prestige boost: Winning an NBR award often increases a film’s visibility and Oscar prospects, especially for international or independent titles.
• 'The Last Emperor' gained momentum after the NBR win, ultimately sweeping the 1988 Oscars with nine wins, including Best Picture.
• Cher’s performance in 'Moonstruck' was critically acclaimed, and the NBR recognition helped solidify her transition from music to serious acting.
• Jack Nicholson continued his streak of acclaimed performances, with the NBR award highlighting his enduring relevance in Hollywood.
• Sean Connery won Best Supporting Actor for 'The Untouchables,' a role that revived his career and earned him an Oscar.
• Historical significance: The 1987 awards reflect a year rich in character-driven storytelling and global perspectives in cinema.

By honoring bold, artistically ambitious films, the National Board of Review continues to shape critical discourse and elevate under-the-radar performances to mainstream attention.