PHOTO: American Film Institute
The American Film Institute has picked its 10 best movies and TV shows of the year. The titles, presented in alphabetical order, are works AFI’s juries have determined advance the art of the moving image, enhance the cultural heritage of America’s art form, inspire audiences and artists and make a mark on American society.
In addition to the 20 honorees, AFI is giving a special award to O.J.: Made in America, a nearly eight-hour-long documentary that aired on TV, raising questions about whether it qualifies for best documentary Oscar consideration as it has picked up best doc nominations and awards.
“Year after year, we are reminded of the power of artists to bring us together as one,” AFI president and CEO Bob Gazzale said Thursday in a statement. “AFI Awards is proud to recognize the achievements of the storytelling teams who have enlightened and informed us, guided and inspired us, and ultimately invited us to empathize with others in a reminder of our common humanity.”
This year’s juries were chaired by producers and AFI board of trustees vice chairs Tom Pollock (for film) and Richard Frank (for TV). Other jury members included Elizabeth Banks, Robert Benton, Diane English, Jon Hamm, Michelle King, Lori McCreary, Rachel Morrison, Patricia Riggen, Mark Harris, Leonard Maltin, authors and scholars representing prestigious universities with recognized motion picture arts and TV programs and film and TV critics from media outlets including the Los Angeles Times, MTV News, Rolling Stone and TV Guide.
The honorees will be recognized at a Jan. 6 luncheon in Los Angeles.
