Sergeant York
US (1941): War/Biography
This is one of the greatest of war sagas because it is the true story of a simple man who accomplishes extraordinary feats through quiet determination and faith. Cooper deservedly won acclaim for his portrayal of the WW I hero (Alvin York himself insisted that Cooper take the role if his story was filmed) from rural east Tennessee. At first hot-headed, with fast fists and no direction, Cooper first changes his life with hard work meant to earn land for a farm that will win him the hand of Joan Leslie. He then takes a devout turn after divine intervention prevents him from murdering his rival for Leslie's affections. Reluctantly enlisted in WW I after denied conscientious objector status, Cooper performs heroic feats motivated by his desire to stop a German machine-gun nest from killing. Upon his return, Cooper is greeted with parades, Leslie's love, and a farm of his own presented by the people of Tennessee, bounty Cooper ascribes to God's grace. A compelling story, expertly directed by Howard Hawks, of inner strength from inspired purpose first seen in York's personal struggles and then his actions on behalf of his comrades. Cast includes Walter Brennan, George Tobias, Margaret Wycherly, Ward Bond, Noah Beery Jr., June Lockhart, Dickie Moore and Howard Da Silva. (amctv.com)
11 nominations, 2 Awards
· Best Actor 1941: Gary Cooper
· Best Film Editing 1941: William Holmes
· Best Picture 1941: Hal B. Wallis, Jesse L. Lasky (Warner Bros.)
· Supporting Actor 1941: Walter Brennan
· Supporting Actress 1941: Margaret Wycherly
· Directing 1941: Howard Hawks
· Writing (Original Screenplay) 1941: Harry Chandlee, Abem Finkel, John Huston, Howard Koch
· Interior Decoration (Black and White) 1941: John J. Hughes - Art Direction, Fred MacLean - Set Decoration
· Cinematography (Black and White) 1941: Sol Polito
· Music Scoring Awards (Scoring of a Dramatic Picture) 1941: Max Steiner
· Sound Recording 1941: Nathan Levinson