The Times (04/Jan/1939) - American prizes for British films
(c) The Times (04/Jan/1939)
AMERICAN PRIZES FOR BRITISH FILMS
MR. HITCHCOCK HONOURED
The British film industry received a notable recognition in the selections of the New York film critics for the best performances of 1938. The Citadel, produced in England by M.G.M. with an almost entirely British cast, was chosen as the best picture of the year, and the award for the best direction was given to Mr. Alfred Hitchcock for The Lady Vanishes. This is the first time that a British director has received the award.
The choice of the best individual performance by an actor went to Mr. James Cagney for his part in Angels With Dirty Faces, and by an actress to Miss Margaret Sullavan for her work in The Three Comrades. The French picture Grand Illusion was chosen as the best film in a foreign language, and Snow White was given a special award because of its unique character.
A two-thirds majority is necessary for each selection, and Mr. Hitchcock was chosen on the first ballot. The awards — a bronze plaque for The Citadel and inscribed rolls for the other recipients — will be presented at a cocktail party in the Rainbow Room of the Rockefeller Centre on Sunday afternoon. The proceedings will be broadcast.
