The Academy Awards have a long history of selecting films that endure in the public consciousness. From the very first winner, William Wellman's Wings, to more recent triumphs, the Best Picture Oscar remains a reliable indicator of a film's lasting legacy. While the Academy has often shunned foreign language films, comedies, and genre pictures, the winners that have stood the test of time are celebrated for their artistry and emotional impact.
Among the greatest winners is William Wyler's The Best Years of Our Lives, which won in 1946. The film follows three veterans returning home after World War II, struggling to readjust to civilian life. Despite accusations of being pious, it deals frankly with the soldiers' problems and those of their families. Another standout is An American in Paris, a 1951 MGM musical that showcases extraordinary artistry in choreography, colour, and sound, with a memorable ballet sequence.
Casablanca, the 1942 winner, is perhaps the most ingrained in public consciousness, with its iconic lines about gin joints and rounding up the usual suspects. On the Waterfront, directed by Elia Kazan, is a politically complex film featuring Marlon Brando's arguably greatest performance as Terry Molloy. David Lean's Lawrence of Arabia, a 1962 epic, offers a probing portrayal of T.E. Lawrence, while All About Eve, from 1950, boasts caustic dialogue and brilliant performances by Bette Davis and Anne Baxter.
The Godfather Part II, the 1974 winner, is still the greatest sequel in Hollywood history, outstripping its predecessor in craftsmanship and performances. These films, along with others like The Shape of Water and Parasite, demonstrate the enduring power of the Best Picture Oscar to highlight cinematic excellence.
