British Film's Victory.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 29, 4 February 1939, Page 7 (Supplement)

British Film's Victory.

BY AIR MAIL . NEW YORK. THE British film industry received a notable recognition in the selections of . the New York film critics for the best performances of 1938. "The Citadel," produced in England by jVI.G.M., with an almost entirely British cast, was chosen as the best picture of the year, and the award for the best direction was given to Alfred Hitchcock for "The Lady Vanishes." This was the first time a British director had received the award.

Choice of the best individual performances went to James Cagney for his part in "Angels With Dirty Faces," and to Margaret Sullavan for her work in "The Three Comrades." A French picture "Grand Illusion" was chosen as the best film in a foreign language. "Snow White and' the Seven Dwarfs" was given a special award because of its unique character. A two-thirds majority is necessary for each selection, and Alfred Hitchcock was chosen on the first ballot. The awards —a bronze plaque for "The' Citadel" and inscribed rolls for the other recipients—were later presented at a cocktail party in tlie Rainbow Room of the Rockefeller Centre.