‘Wicked’ named best picture by National Board of Review
The body also recognized Jon M. Chu as Best Director. Actors Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will be honored with a Spotlight Award for their creative collaboration.
“Wicked” is already casting its spell on awards season.
The blockbuster adaptation of the long-running Broadway musical has been named Best Film by the National Board of Review, commonly referred to as NBR.
The New York City-based, non-profit organization of film enthusiasts announced Wednesday that the film won its top prize. The body also recognized Jon M. Chu as Best Director. Actors Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will be honored with a Spotlight Award for their creative collaboration.
“Wicked represents the pure magic that movies can bring to audiences. Every detail is beautifully crafted and designed, the actors are all exceptional and the music is second-to-none — together it adds up to a transporting experience like no other,” NBR President Annie Schulhof said.
Since opening Nov. 22 in North America, “Wicked: Part One” has grossed more than $359 million globally — also becoming the highest grossing movie based on a Broadway musical ever at the U.S. box office.
NBR, which was established in 1909, also recognized Nicole Kidman as Best Actress for her role in “Babygirl” and “Queer” star Daniel Craig as Best Actor.
Kieran Culkin and Elle Fanning took supporting acting honors for their roles in “A Real Pain” and “A Complete Unknown,” respectively.
The organization said a select group of film enthusiasts, filmmakers and professionals weighed in on 246 films to compile this year’s list. Many of the films chosen end up on the shortlists for the Academy Awards’ Best Picture nominees.
Winners will be honored at the NBR’s annual awards gala Jan. 7 at New York City’s Cipriani 42nd Street.
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