Anna Daniels
The National Board of Review (NBR) has made headlines once again with its selection for the 2024 awards, naming “Wicked” as Best Picture. This decision has ignited a mix of enthusiasm and debate across the film landscape.
The film “Wicked,” helmed by director John M. Chu, has not only achieved box office success but is also gaining traction for Oscar consideration. The recognition from the NBR has divided opinions; some view it as a deserved acknowledgment of a beloved film, while critics argue it diminishes NBR’s reputation by overlooking more deserving contenders.
This choice brings to light the ongoing discussion regarding the tension between popular appeal and artistic value in award decisions. Regardless of the controversies, the recognition of “Wicked” is significant, particularly given the high-caliber cast and production quality associated with the film.
Choosing “Wicked” as Best Picture has undoubtedly generated buzz within the film industry. Its impact on the upcoming Oscars remains uncertain, but it has certainly elevated the film’s visibility.
In the acting categories, Daniel Craig received the Best Actor award for his role in Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, while Nicole Kidman earned the Best Actress accolade for her performance in Babygirl. Their wins have been well-received, recognizing their exceptional performances in demanding roles. Kieran Culkin was honored for his supporting role in A Real Pain, and Elle Fanning’s unexpected win for A Complete Unknown rounded off the acting awards.
NBR’s Top 10 Films of the Year
The NBR’s annual roundup showcases a variety of films, including blockbuster hits and indie favorites. The complete list features:
However, noteworthy films that were surprisingly not included are Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two, Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Perez, and Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist. Their absence has sparked discussions regarding the criteria and values guiding the NBR’s selections.
Critique and Debate
The selection of Wicked for Best Picture has elicited significant criticism. Detractors contend that this choice compromises the NBR’s credibility by emphasizing box office performance at the expense of artistic integrity. One critic expressed frustration, stating, “This win is a total joke. It’s hard to believe that Wicked would have won without its box-office dominance.” Some have characterized the NBR’s choices as reflecting a “narrow and ultra-populist” approach.
Conversely, not all feedback has been negative. A number of fans and industry insiders regard this acknowledgment as a tribute to Wicked‘s ability to resonate with audiences and innovate the modern musical genre.
Personal Thoughts: The NBR’s decision to award “Wicked” as Best Picture is quite unexpected. While it has enjoyed commercial triumph and boasts a talented cast, it raises the question of whether more critically acclaimed films have been overlooked. This choice invites consideration of the criteria employed for award selections and whether the emphasis on commercial success compromises artistic recognition. It will be intriguing to see how this impacts the upcoming awards season and whether it sparks further discussion on the diverse values of films within the industry.
What are your thoughts: Does “Wicked” deserve the Best Picture award, or were there more deserving films this year?
