At the 97th Academy Awards, Wicked dazzled audiences with its visionary production design, earning Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales the award for Best Production Design. Their creative collaboration transformed the film into a visually immersive experience that captured the magic and grandeur of its source material.
A Visual Spectacle
Crowley and Sandales brought a dynamic blend of theatrical flair and cutting-edge design to Wicked. Their work not only enhanced the narrative but also created a richly detailed world that transported viewers to an enchanting realm of wonder. Every meticulously crafted set and every imaginative detail contributed to the film’s unique atmosphere and visual storytelling.
The Competition
The win was hard-fought against a strong field of nominees:
- Judy Becker (“The Brutalist”) – Recognized for her ability to create raw, evocative environments that resonated with modern audiences.
- Suzie Davies (“Conclave”) – Delivered a design that balanced elegance and tension in a politically charged narrative.
- Patrice Vermette (“Dune: Part Two”) – Known for constructing expansive, immersive landscapes that brought epic science fiction to life.
- Craig Lathrop (“Nosferatu”) – Offered a haunting and atmospheric design that redefined gothic horror aesthetics.
Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales’ achievement in Best Production Design at the 2025 Oscars stands as a testament to the transformative power of art direction in filmmaking. Their visionary work on Wicked set a new standard for production design, making it one of the most memorable highlights of this year’s ceremony.
