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The Best Years of Our Lives

(William Wyler, 1946)

New Restoration

Four men, including a sailor and an airman in uniform, sit at a bar engaged in conversation, with drinks in front of them in a black and white setting.

Celebrate the 80th anniversary of this poignant Oscar-winning portrayal of servicemen returning home after World War II.

One of the most decorated films in Hollywood history, The Best Years of Our Lives follows the paths of three servicemen who return home from World War II where they must readjust to family and the rhythms of their everyday lives. The film is credited for its sensitive but realistic portrayal of the lingering traumas of war and the impact of separation on marriage. Winner of seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, Director (Wiliam Wyler), and Actor (Fredric March). The star-studded cast also includes Myrna Loy, Dana Andrews, Teresa Wright, and Virginia Mayo. Real life veteran Harold Russell, who lost both arms during the war, received the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. (170 mins., 4K DCP)

IMAGE CAPTION
The Best Years of Our Lives, courtesy of Park Circus.

Program Support

Restored by The Academy Film Archive, The Library of Congress, and The Film Foundation. Restoration funding provided by the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation.

SUPPORT FOR FILM PROGRAMS PROVIDED BY

Rohauer Collection Foundation

WEXNER CENTER PROGRAMS MADE POSSIBLE BY

The Ohio State University

Greater Columbus Arts Council

Orange Barrel Media

Ohio Arts Council

Wexner Center Foundation Board

The Columbus Foundation

CampusParc

With special thanks to our members

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