MRS. MINIVER (1942)

MGM took a chance producing this tribute to the British and their endurance on the home front during World War II. At the time the film went into production, many Americans were opposed to the country entering the war. During production, however, the attack on Pearl Harbor drastically changed opinions, and the picture became one of the first in support of the war effort. Greer Garson took a chance, too. Other actresses had turned down the title role rather than play a woman with a grown son. At 37, she feared the role would end her career as a leading lady. Instead, by playing a woman who endures the Blitz and tries to keep her family together during the war—and one who even holds a Nazi soldier captive—she became a bigger star than ever and earned the Oscar for Best Actress. The film won six Academy Awards in all, including Best Picture, Supporting Actress (Teresa Wright), and Director (William Wyler).

d. William Wyler, 134m, 35mm

Courtesy of Park Circus and Warner Brothers Classics.