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The NC Film Critics Association Awards Timeline

FYC 2024 season

Dec. 10, 2024 – Nominating ballots go out to NCFCA Membership

Dec. 17 – 11:59 PM (ET) deadline for return of nomination ballots

Dec. 21– NCFCA Best in Cinema Award nominations announced

Dec. 21 – Final NCFCA ballots emailed to all members

Dec. 29 – 11:59 PM (ET) deadline for return of ballots

Jan. 3, 2025– Announcement of 12th Annual Winners for NCFCA Best in Cinema

Any film released for voting members within the calendar year (January 1 – December 31) could be considered eligible for awards consideration. Films for consideration may be offered in theatres, online viewing platforms, or through physical media. 

Hugo movie scene, young boy standing beside machine
Hugo/Paramount Pictures

Awards Categories

The North Carolina Film Critics Association members recognize filmmaking in the following categories:

  • Best Narrative Film
  • Best Documentary
  • Best Animated Film
  • Best Foreign Language Film
  • Best Director
  • Best Actor/Actress
  • Best Supporting Actor/Actress
  • Best Acting Ensemble
  • Best Vocal Performance in Animation or Mixed Media
  • Best Original Screenplay
  • Best Adapted Screenplay
  • Best Cinematography
  • Best Editing
  • Best Costume Design
  • Best Hair & Make-Up
  • Best Production Design (includes Set & Art Direction)
  • Best Score
  • Best Original Song
  • Best Sound Design
  • Best Special Effects
  • Best Directorial Debut
  • Best Stunt Coordination
  • Breakthrough Performance *honoring acting talent for an outstanding film debut, or for a transformative performance in a lead or supporting role.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award *honoring filmmakers who have left a legendary mark on the world of cinema
  • Ken Hanke Memorial Tar Heel Award *honoring talent or productions with North Carolina connections

*Updated March 10, 2024

August 21, 2021

The Lego Batman Movie poster
Avengers Endgame movie poster
A Quiet Place movie poster