Jon M. Chu Wins Critics Choice Award for 'Wicked' Despite Oscar Snub

The director reflects on his surprise victory, the film's impact, and how audience reception is shaping the upcoming sequel.

Jon M. Chu won Best Director at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards for 'Wicked,' despite not being nominated for an Oscar in the same category.
The film adaptation of the Broadway musical is nominated for 10 Oscars, including Best Picture, with the ceremony scheduled for March.
Chu revealed that audience reactions to 'Wicked' have influenced his creative decisions while editing the sequel, 'Wicked: For Good,' slated for release in November 2025.
Stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who play central roles in 'Wicked,' were praised for their performances and teased as delivering even more powerful moments in the sequel.
Chu emphasized the importance of musicals as a genre and expressed hope that 'Wicked' inspires more filmmakers to explore its storytelling potential.