Product reviewsThe Best Years of Our Lives (VHS, 2000)

1946 7 Oscar Wyler Post-WWII Drama Depicts, What Next?

Post-World War II veterans, a soldier, sailor & airman, return home to Boone City. This film is about their families' re-adjustments to a myriad of social consequences, including marital crises, post-traumatic stress, disability & greed.

Al Stephenson (Fredric March), had been a banker before becoming a soldier. He's an older Army vet. While in combat, his children grew up. Re-establishing the intimacy with his lovely wife, Milly (Myrna Loy), proves challenging. Although Al's promoted at the bank, he struggles to be a calloused businessman.

Fred Derry (Dana Andrews) was an Air Force officer bombardier. Once home & job hunting, he recognizes he's got no marketable skills. So, Fred winds up behind the counter of a soda fountain. Fred only knew his wife, Marie (Virginia Mayo) a few weeks before they married just before he left for combat. Marie's disenchanted with being the wife of a "soda jerk" instead of an Air Force officer.

The Navy's represented by Homer Parrish (Harold Russell-a non-actor, actual WWII veteran). During a fire on board ship, both of his hands were burnt beyond saving. Although Homer's prosthetic hands the Navy provided keep him independent enough, he's aware of & resents people's observable pity. He'd planed to marry his high school sweetheart; but, believes his physical change will impose a burden on her. These 3 veterans become chums. Since Fred's marriage is falling apart, he finds himself falling in love with Al's daughter, Peggy (Teresa Wright). In the end, they make paths to move forward with their lives.

This became the most celebrated film about the after-effects of World War II on veterans' families. To director Wyler's credit, the film succeeds in allowing viewers to feel they are observing the life changes being on the war on the front made on the home fronts. Real WWII vet Harold Russell won 2 Oscars for playing Homer Parrish:, Best Supporting Actor & a special Oscar 'for bringing hope & courage to fellow veterans through his appearance'; plus, a Golden Globe award for Best Non-Professional Acting.

1946 Academy Awards went to:
Best Picture
Best Director, William Wyler
Best Adapted Screenplay, Robert E. Sherwood
Best Film Editing, Daniel Mandell
Best Original Score, Hugo Friedhofer
Best Actor, Fredric March
Best Supporting Actor, Harold Russell
Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, Samuel Goldwyn
Special Achievement Award, Harold RussellRead full review...