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The Best Years of Our Lives

Presented by The Colonial Theatre

May 15, 2011

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After Pearl Harbor and the United States’ entry into World War II, Myrna Loy took a hiatus from acting (other than for one Thin Man adventure in 1944) and worked steadily for the Red Cross and other causes for the duration. It is most fitting that this patriotic and dedicated woman chose to return to the screen in this particular film, a monument to and apotheosis of the struggles of soldiers returning from a long, hard war.

The Best Years of Our Lives is considered by many to be one of the high-points of American film, with its remarkable embodiment of the atmosphere and issues facing American society at the time. Robert Sherwood's film adaptation of MacKinley Kantor's book tells the stories of three returning veterans (Fredric March, Dana Andrews and Harold Russell) as they re-enter civilian life and is a masterpiece that still resonates today.

Ms. Loy is truly affecting in her understated portrayal of March's wife, helping him to cope with a family that has grown more independent in his absence. In addition to its Best Picture Oscar, this film garnered Awards for March, Sherwood, William Wyler (Best Director), editing, score, and for Harold Russell (a non-professional actor and veteran who had lost both hands in the War who memorably brings to life the struggles of a young soldier learning to trust the love and acceptance of his family and his high-school sweetheart.) A powerful film filled with wit, insight and pathos, this is American movie-making at its best. It will make you laugh, cry, and be proud to be an American. When was the last time that happened for you? (Bill Roth)

Directed by William Wyler. US. 1946. NR. Running time: 172 min.