Oscar History: Academy Award Winning Movies and Actors of 1971

A look at Oscar winners and nominees, behind the scenes on the decisions for best picture, actor, etc for 1971, the French Connection wins top honors, Charlie Chaplin is honored.

1971

Best Picture

NOMINEES: A Clockwork Orange, Fiddler on the Roof, The French Connection, The Last Picture Show, Nicholas and Alexandra

THE WINNER: The French Connection (20th Century-Fox)

DIRECTOR: William Friedkin

PLAYERS: Gene Hackman, Fernando Rey, Roy Scheider, Tony Lo Bianco, Marcel Bozzuffi

Best Actor

NOMINEES: Peter Finch (Sunday, Bloody Sunday); Gene Hackman (The French Connection); Walter Matthau (Kotch); George C. Scott (The Hospital); Topol (Fiddler on the Roof)

THE WINNER: Gene Hackman

Best Actress

NOMINEES: Julie Christie (McCabe & Mrs. Miller); Jane Fonda (Klute); Glenda Jackson (Sunday, Bloody Sunday); Vanessa Redgrave (Mary, Queen of Scots); Janet Suzman (Nicholas and Alexandra)

THE WINNER: Jane Fonda

Behind the Oscar

Charlie Chaplin had not been in the U.S. for 20 years, after becoming persona non grata because of both his political beliefs and his moral behavior in the intolerant fifties. All was forgiven as the fragile 83-year-old genius made his hesitant way to the podium to receive his 2nd special award for his contributions to the entertainment media. The audience of 2,900 stood and cheered and clapped for a full 4 minutes, leaving the old man tearful and moved. Seventy-five million people watched the award ceremonies on TV this night.