NEW YORK — The National Board of Review has thrown its weight behind John M. Chu’s adaptation of “Wicked,” designating the impressive musical as the best film of the year. Additionally, Chu was honored as best director, while stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande received accolades for their joint performance. These awards were announced on Wednesday.

Already a major commercial success, “Wicked” is also gearing up for an awards campaign, positioning itself as a strong contender for the Academy Awards. The National Board of Review, which has been around since 1909, consists of film aficionados and scholars based in New York; it operates independently from the film academy. The recognition from the NBR provides “Wicked” with a significant boost leading into the upcoming Golden Globe nominations on Monday, where it is expected to shine.

Annie Schulhof, the president of the NBR, praised “Wicked” for its enchanting ability to captivate viewers. She stated, “Wicked embodies the true enchantment that films can offer. Every aspect is meticulously crafted, the performances are outstanding, and the musical score is unparalleled—collectively creating an immersive experience that is truly unique.”

The best actor award went to Daniel Craig for his role in Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ work titled “Queer.” Nicole Kidman was recognized as best actress for her performance in Halina Reijn’s “Babygirl,” where she plays a senior executive involved romantically with an intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson.

In the supporting categories, Kieran Culkin was named best supporting actor for his role in “A Real Pain,” and Elle Fanning took home the award for best supporting actress for her work in “A Complete Unknown.”

The NBR awards add to a series of ceremonies recently held, such as the Gotham Awards and the New York Film Critics Circle announcements earlier this week, along with the Spirit Awards nominations. The NBR will present its awards at an untelevised gala scheduled for January 7 in New York, hosted by Willie Geist.

The complete list of honorees from the NBR includes:

Best Film: “Wicked”

Best Director: John M. Chu, “Wicked”

Best Actor: Daniel Craig, “Queer”

Best Actress: Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”

Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”

Best Supporting Actress: Elle Fanning, “A Complete Unknown”

Best Ensemble: “Conclave”

Breakthrough Performance: Mikey Madison, “Anora”

Best Directorial Debut: India Donaldson, “Good One”

Best Original Screenplay: Mike Leigh, “Hard Truths”

Best Adapted Screenplay: Clint Bentley & Greg Kwedar, “Sing Sing”

NBR Spotlight Award: Creative Collaboration of Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande

NBR Freedom of Expression Award: “No Other Land”

Best Animated Feature: “Flow”

Best International Film: “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”

Best Documentary: “Sugarcane”

Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography: Jarin Blaschke, “Nosferatu”

Outstanding Achievement in Stunt Artistry: “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”