This year the Westport Library celebrates Poe at 200. with a series of events. Despite his relatively short life, Poe was an accomplished poet, writer and literary critic considered by many to be the inventor of the detective-fiction genre. And, his stories and other works have inspired films since the beginning of the motion picture industry. The Mystery Writers of America, a premier organization for mystery and crime writers as well as others who love crime fiction honors his memory with awards named after him, including an Edgar® for the Best Motion Picture. Here’s a quick look at some of the past winners in the library’s film collection.
The earliest honor went to The House on 92nd Street in 1946. Last year’s winner was the motion picture Michael Clayton, also a heavy contender in the Oscar race. In 2006, the MWA honored the film Syriana. In 2005, the French film A Very Long Engagement won the award. British director Guy Ritchie may have lost Madonna but probably still has custody of his 2000 Edgar® for Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
Many winners have included laudable performances by great actors portraying very memorable detectives. These include In the Heat of the Night (1968), The French Connection (1972) and Chinatown (1975).
So the next time you watch a film inspired by mystery or crime, remember you have Edgar Allan Poe to thank.
