For over 100 years the National Board of Review 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 2009, the NBR expanded its student grant giving to eleven schools, and reached out to the community through the Children’s Aid Society and Reel Works Teen Filmmaking.

Over three hundred films (studio, independent, foreign-language, animated, and documentary) are viewed throughout the year by a selective group of knowledgeable film enthusiasts, academics, film professionals, and students. 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.