On this day in 1978, UNIVERSAL PICTURES premiered THE DEER HUNTER. Directed by MICHAEL CIMINO from his original story, this in-depth examination of the effects of the Viet Nam War on a small town was an eye-opener for audiences. Amazing performances by relative newcomers made this one of the cinematic highlights of the year. Included in the cast are ROBERT DeNIRO, MERYL STREEP, JOHN SAVAGE and CHRISTOPHER WALKEN. Appropriately named Best Picture of the Year by the Academy.