The Jazz Singer
US (1927): Drama
Al Jolson stars as the son of a Jewish cantor who must defy his father in order to pursue his dream of becoming a jazz singer. He has success, but when his father dies he gives up his chances on Broadway and takes over the duties of the cantor at the synagouge. Acknowledged as the first talking picture, with songs and a few fragments of speech. Alan Crosland directs.
2 nominations, 1 Special Award
· Special Award 1927-28: Warner Bros. "for producing The Jazz Singer, the outstanding pioneer talking picture, which has revolutionized the industry."
· Writing (Adaptation) 1927-28: Alfred A. Cohn
· Engineering Effects 1927-28: Nugent Slaughter, Engineering Effects NOTE: Though no specific titles were indicated during the presentation of May 16, 1929 or in the official results from the Central Board of Judges for this honorable mention, Academy records indicate that Slaughter was most often mentioned in connection with THE JAZZ SINGER.