National Board of Review Announces 2024 Film Awards
The National Board of Review (NBR) unveiled its highly anticipated list of honorees for 2024, shining a spotlight on exceptional achievements in filmmaking. “Wicked,” the cinematic adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon, captured the coveted Best Film award, cementing its status as a critical darling. Jon M. Chu, the visionary director behind “Crazy Rich Asians,” earned Best Director recognition for his masterful handling of the beloved musical.
Celebrating Creative Collaboration
The NBR spotlight shone brightly on the captivating collaboration of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, awarding them the NBR Spotlight Award for their outstanding contributions to “Wicked.” Nicole Kidman received Best Actress accolades for her powerful performance in “Babygirl,” while Daniel Craig, in Luca Guadagnino’s “Queer,” delivered a captivating performance, earning him the Best Actor award.
Honoring Excellence Across Genres and Roles
Kieran Culkin was recognized for his compelling performance in “A Real Pain,” earning him Best Supporting Actor. Elle Fanning received Best Supporting Actress accolades for her nuanced portrayal in “A Complete Unknown.” “Conclave” secured the Best Ensemble award, a testament to the synergy and talent of its cast. Mikey Madison’s breakout performance in “Anora” earned her the Breakthrough Performance Award. India Donaldson, for her directorial debut in “Good One,” was recognized with the Best Directorial Debut award. Mike Leigh’s masterful storytelling earned him Best Original Screenplay for “Hard Truths,” while Clint Bentley & Greg Kwedar were awarded Best Adapted Screenplay for their work on “Sing Sing.”
Highlighting Social Impact and Cinematic Achievements
“No Other Land” garnered the NBR Freedom of Expression Award, highlighting the film’s impactful social commentary. “Flow” soared to recognition, claiming Best Animated Feature, while “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” was honored as Best International Film.
“Sugarcane” received the Best Documentary award. Jarin Blaschke’s stunning cinematography in “Nosferatu” was recognized as Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography, and the action-packed “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” was honored for Outstanding Achievement in Stunt Artistry.
Top Films and More
In addition to the aforementioned winners, the NBR singled out a selection of exceptional films for recognition. The Top Films list, presented in alphabetical order, included:
“Anora,” “Babygirl,” “A Complete Unknown,” “Conclave,” “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” “Gladiator II,” “Juror #2,” “Queer,” “A Real Pain,” and “Sing Sing.”
The NBR also highlighted Top 5 International Films and Top 5 Documentaries, recognizing excellence in global cinema. Top 10 Independent Films also showcased a range of compelling narratives and unique cinematic voices.
The annual NBR Awards Gala will be held on January 7th at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. Malcolm Gladwell, acclaimed author and journalist, will be the guest speaker, adding his unique perspective to the evening’s celebration of film.
– How does the NBR Awards’ recognition of “Wicked” potentially impact its chances in other major award ceremonies like the Oscars?
## NBR Awards: “Wicked” Takes Top Honors
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is film critic, [Guest Name], to discuss the National Board of Review’s film awards just announced for 2024. [Guest Name], congratulations on the early look at the awards!
**Guest:** Thank you for having me! It’s always an exciting time when the NBR reveals its picks, as they often serve as a strong indicator for awards season buzz.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely! So, this year, “Wicked” seems to have taken center stage, winning Best Film and Best Director. Were you surprised by its dominance?
**Guest:** Not at all. “Wicked” has been generating tremendous buzz since its release. [[1](https://www.indiewire.com/awards/results/national-board-of-review-2024-winners-list-1235072435/)]While musicals often face an uphill battle, the adaptation’s star power, combined with Jon M. Chu’s impressive direction, have clearly resonated with critics and audiences alike. It’s a spectacle that deserves recognition.
**Interviewer:** And speaking of powerhouses, congratulations to Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande for their shared Spotlight Award for “Wicked”!
**Guest:** They absolutely deserve it! Their performances have been praised for their chemistry and individual brilliance. It’s wonderful to see the NBR acknowledge their contribution to this highly anticipated adaptation.
**Interviewer:** The awards also recognized some stunning performances across various categories. What are some other standouts for you?
**Guest:** Well, Nicole Kidman continues to amaze with her versatility, and her win for Best Actress in “Babygirl” is well-deserved. Daniel Craig’s performance in “Queer” is also garnering critical acclaim. [[1](https://www.indiewire.com/awards/results/national-board-of-review-2024-winners-list-1235072435/)]I’m excited to see what the rest of the awards season brings for these talented individuals.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much, [Guest Name], for sharing your insight on these exciting awards!
**Guest:** My pleasure! I can’t wait to see how the rest of the awards season unfolds.