The Best Years of Our Lives
Synopsis
The story concentrates on the social re-adjustment of three World War II servicemen, each from a different station of society. Al Stephenson returns to an influential banking position, but finds it hard to reconcile his loyalties to ex-servicemen with new commercial realities. Fred Derry is an ordinary working man who finds it difficult to hold down a job or pick up the threads of his marriage. Having had both hands burnt off during the war, Homer Parrish is unsure that his fiancée's feelings are still those of love and not those of pity. Each of the veterans faces a crisis upon his arrival, and each crisis is a microcosm of the experiences of many American warriors who found an alien world awaiting them when they came marching home.
Critical Acclaim
The 1946 release of *The Best Years of Our Lives* was met with widespread critical acclaim, quickly establishing it as a significant piece of post-war American cinema. Critics lauded its sensitive portrayal of the social re-adjustment challenges faced by returning World War II servicemen. The film’s direction by William Wyler, coupled with Robert E. Sherwood’s screenplay adaptation of MacKinlay Kantor’s novel, captivated audiences and critics alike. The film’s nuanced exploration of veteran reintegration resonated deeply with a post-war audience, contributing to its commercial success as the highest-grossing film of the year.
Bosley Crowther of *The New York Times* praised the film as “a towering motion picture,” applauding its emotional depth and realism. Modern critics continue to celebrate the film's achievements, with *The Best Years of Our Lives* maintaining a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Retrospective reviews often highlight the powerful performances delivered by Harold Russell, Fredric March, and Dana Andrews, particularly noting Russell's authentic portrayal of a disabled veteran, which adds a profound layer of authenticity to the narrative.
The film’s critical success translated into a remarkable haul at the 1947 Academy Awards, where it won seven Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Fredric March. Its enduring legacy is reflected in its frequent inclusion in lists of the greatest American films, notably ranking high on the American Film Institute’s “100 Years...100 Movies” list. *The Best Years of Our Lives* remains a seminal work for its insightful depiction of the complexities faced by returning veterans and continues to be studied and revered for its impactful storytelling and historical significance.
Track your movie viewing progress at Your Watchlists