On the evening of January 7, 2024, the National Board of Review hosted its annual gala, celebrating outstanding achievements in cinema. Among the highlights was the presentation of awards to the cast and crew of "Wicked," including a special spotlight award for Creative Collaboration to Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Director Jon M. Chu also received accolades as Best Director. The event brought together an impressive lineup of stars, including Michelle Yeoh and Ethan Slater. Notably, Ryan Reynolds presented Marc Platt with the award for Best Film of 2024, delivering heartfelt remarks that deeply touched Ariana Grande. She expressed her gratitude through Instagram, acknowledging the profound impact of his words.

An Unforgettable Evening Celebrating "Wicked" at the NBR Gala

In the enchanting ambiance of early January, the National Board of Review gathered luminaries from the film industry for its prestigious gala. Among the celebrated works was the musical adaptation "Wicked," which garnered significant attention. Ryan Reynolds, known for his roles in "Deadpool" and "Wolverine," took center stage to present Marc Platt with the award for Best Film of 2024. Alongside him were notable figures such as Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, and director Jon M. Chu. The night saw Erivo and Grande honored with the NBR Spotlight Award for Creative Collaboration, while Chu was lauded as Best Director.

Reynolds used his speech to highlight the significance of "Wicked," praising its portrayal of two powerful women and the complex relationship between them. He emphasized the importance of stories about women, often held to unrealistic standards, and commended Donna Langley and Universal Pictures for their trust in the project. In a light-hearted moment, he humorously teased cast member Jonathan Bailey, jokingly suggesting fewer scenes featuring the charismatic actor.

The following morning, Reynolds shared a candid photo on social media, capturing the essence of the night. The image featured Grande, Erivo, Yeoh, Slater, and Chu, all beaming with pride. Reynolds expressed his honor in presenting the award to "Wicked," noting its significance both personally and professionally. Earlier, he and his wife Blake Lively had attended a screening of "Wicked" at the Metrograph theater in New York City, adding another layer of personal connection to the film.

Ariana Grande, moved by Reynolds' speech, posted on Instagram, thanking him for his kind words. Her heartfelt message conveyed deep appreciation, highlighting the meaningful impact of his tribute.

From a journalist's perspective, this event underscores the power of storytelling and the recognition it deserves. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diverse narratives and the role they play in shaping cultural conversations. The celebration of "Wicked" not only honors a remarkable film but also champions the voices of women in cinema, setting a positive precedent for future projects.