Conclave Earns Best Picture Honors from the North Carolina Film Critics Association

Five Films Take Home Three Honors Each, Including Challengers, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Nosferatu, and The Substance

The North Carolina Film Critics Association (NCFCA) unveils the winners of the 13th Annual Best in Cinema Awards, celebrating exceptional achievements in the art of filmmaking. The 2024 winners reflect a diverse array of genres and themes, from epic dramas and sci-fi blockbusters to horror, comedy, and thought-provoking narratives.

Honoring Excellence in Film:
Leading the honors, Conclave secured Best Narrative Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Acting Ensemble. It shares the top tier with Challengers, Dune: Part Two, Nosferatu, and The Substance, each winning three awards.

Multiple Award Winners Highlights:

Challengers – A story of ambition and passion, earning Best Editing for its sharp pacing, Best Score for its atmospheric composition, and Best Original Song (“Compress/Repress”) for its lyrical impact.
Conclave – A riveting exploration of faith and power, winning Best Narrative Film, Best Adapted Screenplay for its compelling storytelling and incisive dialogue, and Best Acting Ensemble for multiple dynamic performances.
Dune: Part Two – An epic sci-fi saga recognized for Best Director (Denis Villeneuve) for visionary execution, Best Sound Design for immersive auditory world-building, and Best Special Effects for the breathtaking and imaginative visual illusions.
Nosferatu – A haunting reimagining of a horror classic, taking Best Cinematography for striking visuals, Best Costume Design for period-infused attire, and Best Production Design for its gothic aesthetic.
The Substance – A provocative narrative commentary earning Best Supporting Actress (Margaret Qualley) for her transformative performance, Best Hair and Makeup for its bold and provocative style, and the Ken Hanke Memorial Tar Heel Award for Margaret Qualley’s connection to North Carolina.

Acting Excellence Showcase:

Best Actor: Colman Domingo (Sing Sing) – A soul-stirring performance capturing courage and compassion. .
Best Actress: Mikey Madison (Anora) – A fearless portrayal of vulnerability and strength.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) – A layered and emotionally charged performance.
Best Supporting Actress: Margaret Qualley (The Substance) – A transformative and unforgettable role.
Breakthrough Performance: Mikey Madison (Anora) – A breakout role marking her as a rising star.
Best Vocal Performance in Animation of Mixed Media: Lupita Nyong’o (The Wild Robot) – Breathed emotional truth into a non-human character.

Expanding Film Horizons:

Best Documentary Film: Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story – A deeply moving look at heroism and resilience.
Best Animated Film: The Wild Robot – A visually enchanting tale exploring identity and connection.
Best Foreign Language Film: All We Imagine As Light – A poetic narrative bridging cultures and emotions.

Recognizing Craftsmanship and Creativity:

Best Editing: Challengers
Best Sound Design: Dune: Part Two
Best Stunt Coordination: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Best Original Screenplay: The Brutalist
Directorial Debut: Josh Margolin, Thelma

Lifetime Achievement Award: The NCFCA presented a Lifetime Achievement Award for Cinematography to Roger Deakins, celebrating his legendary contributions to visual storytelling.

“We are honored to celebrate the artistry, passion, and dedication of filmmakers who inspire and engage audiences worldwide. Our members are proud to support a platform that highlights the richness of cinematic storytelling and its impact on culture and society,” said Noel T. Manning II, president of the NCFCA.

About the NCFCA
From the mountains to the coast, the North Carolina Film Critics Association (NCFCA) represents 67 critics, journalists, and scholars dedicated to the analysis, review, and celebration of cinema as an art form. Founded by Ken Morefield to amplify diverse cinematic voices, the NCFCA promotes artistic recognition throughout the year and through its annual awards. Members provide coverage of film across broadcast, print, and digital platforms

Discover the complete list of 2024 nominees here. For past winners, NCFCA member lists, and additional information, visit: ncfilmcritics.org.

The full list of 2024 winners by category can be found below.

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NCFCA Best in Cinema Honors for 2024

BEST NARRATIVE FILM

Conclave

BEST DOCUMENTARY FILM

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story

BEST ANIMATED FILM

The Wild Robot

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

All We Imagine As Light