‘Wicked’ Director Jon M. Chu Jokes ‘I’m Gonna Win That Oscar’ After Academy Snub in Stunned Acceptance Speech at Critics’ Choice

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Jon M. Chu, the director of “Wicked,” was awarded the title of best director at the Critics’ Choice Awards on Friday night, surpassing several Oscar nominees for this honor. As he graciously accepted his award, it appeared that he was taken aback by the recognition, with his supportive cast, including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, cheering him on from the stage.

In his speech, Chu joked, “I’m going to win that Oscar!”, causing the room to erupt in laughter. Quickly dismissing the jest, he waved his hand and grinned, saying, “But let me clarify, I’m not even nominated.

Chu further clarified that he hadn’t prepared a speech for this occasion, expressing candidly, “I’m being honest with you… Life gives us opportunities to narrate our own tales. Frankly, I was yearning to escape the clutches of algebra and grammar once and for all. My ultimate dream has always been to create films. I wanted to collaborate with my friends. I desired to express whatever ideas we harbored in our minds – be it from last week, this year, or even our childhood. I feel incredibly fortunate to be here, to be able to narrate these stories to the world alongside each one of you.

As a passionate filmmaker, I find myself deeply moved to express my gratitude today. To my wife and five wonderful children, this achievement is for you all. You are the unsung heroes of every artist’s life. Navigating through an artist’s world can be challenging, but you make it bearable with your unwavering support.

I often feel that we artists, in our quest to express ourselves, can appear self-centered and peculiar. But it’s because of you that we are able to rise above these quirks and keep moving forward.

America, I believe, is the most extraordinary place on earth. Yes, we face challenges, but it’s here where dreams become reality. It’s a land where one can aspire to achieve things that our ancestors could scarcely imagine. And for that, I owe a debt of gratitude to all those who have supported me along my journey.

Despite “Wicked” receiving ten Oscar nominations this year, making it one of the most-nominated features, many experts were taken aback as director Chu was not included in the Best Director category. However, at the Critics’ Choice Awards, Chu outshone Oscar nominees such as Sean Baker (“Anora”), Brady Corbet (“The Brutalist”), Jacques Audiard (“Emilia Perez”) and Coralie Fargeat (“The Substance”). Denis Villeneuve (“Dune: Part Two”), RaMell Ross (“Nickel Boys”), and Edward Berger (“Conclave”) were also recognized.

See the full list of winners from this year’s Critics Choice Awards here.

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2025-02-08 06:16