Best Pictures Introduction
by Garrett Chaffin-Quiray

Envisioned as a public relations coup, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded in 1927. Among its chartered aims were the defense of moviemaking as a culturally important industry, the resolution of labor difficulties between movie financiers and talent, and the promotion of the industry's best productions.

Because the Academy was primarily designed to benefit the major studios, however, labor disputes following the rise of trade unionism eventually altered the Academy's focus. Thus the least of its original concerns became the centerpiece of future activity.

Self-promotion was in, vertical integration out. Almost immediately the Academy Awards caught on with the public. Individual citations for cinematic excellence were dubbed "Oscar" and the awards show itself was turned into a global media event through lucrative radio and TV broadcasts.

Over the years the Oscars have therefore tended to polarize audience taste agreeing with, or departing form, Hollywood's prevailing mood. As a result, many so-called Best Pictures have assumed a place among the greatest pieces of film art ever produced while others have failed to stand the test of time.

What follows is an effort to review the Academy Award-winning motion pictures since their first presentation in 1929. Each essay includes cast and crew information, the year of release and running time along with wins or nominations for Academy Awards, Golden Globes, Grammy Awards and entry into the National Film Registry.