“Wicked” Charms Its Way to Top Film Honors
The 2024 movie season has seen its share of memorable films, but the National Board of Review (NBR) has declared the long-awaited adaptation of the Broadway juggernaut “Wicked” as the very best.
Musical Magic Takes Center Stage
“It was true magic,” NBR chairwoman Annie Schulhof said of the film, praising its “excellent actors and unique music.”
The film’s success extends beyond its story. Director Jon M. Chu was named best filmmaker, and the powerhouse pairing of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo — who star as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively — received special recognition for their performances.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast Shines
Rounding out the NBR’s top honors is Edward Berger, the Oscar-winning director of “All Quiet on the Western Front,” who took home the award for best ensemble cast for his Vatican thriller “Conclave.” The film boasts an impressive list of stars, including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini.
International Cinema Scores Big
The NBR also recognized exceptional work from international filmmakers. “The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree,” a powerful German film by Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, won the award for best international film. Rasoulof, who fled to Germany following political protests in Iran, explores the far-reaching impacts of those protests on a family.
Passionate Performances Fuel Top Acting Awards
Nicole Kidman secured the best actress award for her role in “Babygirl,” an erotic drama that delves into the desires of a woman reclaiming her sensuality. James Bond star Daniel Craig earned the best actor award for his performance in “Queer,” a poignant portrayal of love between two men.
A Diverse Slate of “Top Films”
In addition to their top picks, the NBR highlighted ten other films that impressed them. This diverse list included “Conclave,” “Babygirl,” “Queer,” “Gladiator 2” – a sequel to the 2000 historical epic – and “A Complete Unknown,” a biopic starring Timothée Chalamet as music icon Bob Dylan.
– What specific aspects of the “Wicked” film adaptation impressed the NBR, making it stand out as the best film of 2024?
## “Wicked” Charms its Way to Top Film Honors: An Interview with NBR Chairwoman Annie Schulhof
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! We’re talking about big news in the world of film, as the National Board of Review has just announced their picks for the best movies of 2024. Joining us to discuss their top choice is NBR Chairwoman Annie Schulhof. Annie, thank you so much for being here.
**Annie Schulhof:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s get right to it. The NBR has named the film adaptation of the Broadway musical “Wicked” as the best film of the year. What was it about this particular film that made it stand out from the crowd?
**Annie Schulhof:** “Wicked” was truly magical. [[1](https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/2024/12/04/wicked-daniel-craig-nbr-awards/2242a568-b27b-11ef-9d23-e5faa22ad216_story.html)]It’s a stunning visual spectacle, with incredible performances from the entire cast, and the music is as breathtaking as ever. It’s a film that truly captures the spirit and heart of the original stage production, while also bringing something new and exciting to the screen.
**Host:** That’s fantastic. The NBR also recognized Daniel Craig for his performance in “Wicked.” Was this a unanimous decision among the Board members?
**Annie Schulhof:** Daniel Craig’s performance as [character name] was absolutely captivating. He brought a depth and complexity to the role that was truly remarkable. The Board was incredibly impressed by his work.
**Host:** Well, congratulations to the entire “Wicked” team, and thank you, Annie Schulhof, for giving us the inside scoop on this exciting announcement.
**Annie Schulhof:** Thank you for having me.
**(Outro Music)**