With Kim Novak in Vertigo

On May 24 the James M. Stewart Foundation, based in Stewart’s hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania, celebrated a very special centennial. To honor the occasion Academy President Sid Ganis sent the following homage in a letter to the foundation’s executive director:

James M. Stewart, who is known most fondly by friends and fans alike as Jimmy Stewart, created many wonderful characters that have become inextricably linked with his distinct humanity. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, composed of Mr. Stewart’s fellow filmmakers, clearly responded to his artistry, as they bestowed upon him five Oscar nominations throughout his career: for Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Philadelphia Story, It’s a Wonderful Life, Harvey and Anatomy of a Murder. (He received an Oscar, of course, for his wonderfully romantic and comedic turn in The Philadelphia Story.)

In a way, the nominations serve as a perfect window into the character of Jimmy Stewart himself: an idealist, a man of gentle humor, a man who stood up to the challenges of war, a family man, a man of strong determination. Jefferson Smith, George Bailey and a rabbit’s good friend Elwood P. Dowd are all woven into the fabric of America’s film history with names that are not only recognizable as distinct and beloved portraits, but also as characters who circle back to Jimmy Stewart, an actor who made it all look so effortless.

It should also be noted that Mr. Stewart was a good citizen of Hollywood. He personified the quiet sacrifice and courage that led many to volunteer for service during World War II, and his friendships and business relationships were strong and long-lasting. In 1984 the Academy saw fit to bestow upon Mr. Stewart one final award, its Honorary Award, the citation of which read, “To James Stewart, for his fifty years of memorable performances. For his high ideals both on and off the screen. With the respect and affection of his colleagues.” There are hundreds of awards given out in Hollywood every year, but there are scant few that will ever reflect the professional achievement, admiration and genuine affection that that Oscar represented for Jimmy Stewart.

On the occasion of his 100th birthday, the Academy gratefully acknowledges the wonderful gifts he left us to continue to enjoy on the silver screen. Today it is quite common to hear complaints along the lines of “Where are the Jimmy Stewarts?” Don’t kid yourselves. They were scarce even then. In fact, there’s only been one.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, in association with the UCLA Film & Television Archive, continues the celebration of one of cinema’s favorite sons with an evening of film clips and conversation with Stewart’s family, friends and colleagues. “A Centennial Tribute to James Stewart” also serves as the closing night of the Archive’s retrospective screening series (see details below).