For more than 99 years, the National Board of Review, with no commercial ties to the motion-picture industry, has dedicated its efforts to the support of film, domestic and foreign, as both art and entertainment. Our nonprofit organization celebrates the distinctive voice of the individual artist, honoring excellence and supporting freedom of expression in film. The board's core activities include fostering commentary on all aspects of film production, as well as
underwriting educational film programs and seminars for film students. In 2008, the NBR expanded its student grant giving to ten schools, and reached out to the community through the Children's Aid Society and Girls Write by providing seats at G, PG, and PG-13 screenings.

NBR members annually view approximately 300 films: theatrical, independent, and major studio, documentary and foreign language. The screening membership comprises knowledgable film buffs, academics, young film professionals, and students in the New York metropolitan area. Frequently, in-depth discussions with filmmakers, directors, actors, producers, or screenwriters follow
screenings. At year's end, members receive a list of all films screened, along with final ballots, which are tabulated by a certified public accounting firm in order to determine annual honorees.