The English Patient
UK/Tunisia (1996): Drama/Romance
This film (based on Michael Ondaatje's prizewinning novel of love and loss during World WarÊII) is one of the most acclaimed films of modern times. Hana, a nurse (Juliette Binoche), tends to an archaeologist (Ralph Fiennes) who has been burnt to a crisp in a plane crash. As their relationship intensifies, he flashes back to his overwhelming passion for a married woman (Kristin Scott Thomas). Meanwhile, Hana begins a new romance with a man who defuses bombs (Naveen Andrews) and Willem Dafoe almost steals the show as the thumbless thief Caravaggio. The intricately layered flashback narrative, sounding the depths of the lovers' hearts, improves with repeated viewings. (Amazon.com)
12 nominations, 9 Awards
· Best Picture of the Year 1996: Saul Zaentz, producer (Tiger Moth/Miramax)
* Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role 1996: Juliette Binoche
· Best Achievement in Directing 1996: Anthony Minghella
· Best Achievement in Cinematography 1996: John Seale
· Best Achievement in Art Direction 1996: Stuart Craig, Art Direction; Stephenie McMillan, Set Decoration
· Best Achievement in Costume Design 1996: Ann Roth
· Best Achievement in Film Editing 1996: Walter Murch
· Best Achievement in Music (Original Dramatic Score) 1996: Gabriel Yared
· Best Achievement in Sound 1996: Walter Murch, Mark Berger, David Parker & Chris Newman
· Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role 1996: Ralph Fiennes
· Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role 1996: Kristin Scott Thomas
· Achievement in Writing (Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published) 1996: Anthony Minghella