The Art Directors Guild (ADG, IATSE Local 800) has announced that filmmaker Jon M. Chu will be honored with the 2026 Cinematic Imagery Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to visual storytelling. The award will be presented at the ADG’s 30th Annual Excellence in Production Design Awards ceremony held on February 28 at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown.
Honoring a Visionary Director’s Impact on Visual Storytelling
The Cinematic Imagery Award is reserved for filmmakers whose work significantly enhances the visual richness of cinema and brings greater awareness to the art department’s role in filmmaking. Jon M. Chu’s resilient dedication to visual innovation and collaboration has earned him this prestigious distinction from the guild. Previous acclaimed recipients of this award include Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, Christopher Nolan, Baz Luhrmann, Jane Campion, Jason Reitman, and George Lucas.
Dina Lipton, president of the Art Directors Guild, praised Chu’s achievements, stating,
“Jon M. Chu’s work exemplifies the power of cinematic imagery to move audiences and deepen storytelling. His bold visual language and unwavering commitment to collaboration have helped shine a spotlight on the essential role of the art department, and we are thrilled to recognize his remarkable contributions with the 2026 Cinematic Imagery Award.”
Jon M. Chu’s Career and Recent Projects
Jon M. Chu has earned renown for his visually striking films spanning a variety of genres, from blockbuster hits to innovative series and commercials. Most recently, he directed Universal Pictures’ adaptation of Wicked: For Good, which premiered on November 21 and quickly became the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation in box office history. The film opened at number one globally and features Oscar-nominated actresses Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in leading roles.
In addition to Wicked: For Good, Chu has helmed celebrated projects like the Warner Bros. musical adaptation In the Heights and the groundbreaking Crazy Rich Asians. The latter became a cultural phenomenon, nominated for a SAG Award, Golden Globe, and PGA Award, and marked a milestone as the first major studio film in over 25 years with an all-Asian cast, setting a new standard for Asian American representation in Hollywood.
Future Endeavors Highlighting Expanding Creative Horizons
Looking ahead, Jon M. Chu is engaged in developing and directing several high-profile projects, including the highly anticipated Britney Spears biopic based on her memoir The Woman in Me for Universal. He is also collaborating on Warner Bros.’ adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ beloved Oh, the Places You’ll Go! with JJ Abrams’ Bad Robot production company. Additionally, Chu is working on the creation of a Crazy Rich Asians Broadway musical, expanding the franchise’s cultural footprint onto the stage.
His previous films include well-known titles such as GI Joe: Retaliation, Now You See Me 2, and Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, collectively amassing over $1.3 billion worldwide at the box office. Chu’s memoir, Viewfinder, detailing his journey from growing up in Silicon Valley to becoming a leading Hollywood director, is set for release in summer 2024.
Reflections on the Art of Visual Filmmaking
Jon M. Chu expressed deep appreciation for the award and the collaborative nature of filmmaking, saying,
“Between imagination and the screen, there is an entire world built by artists.”
He added,
“On Wicked and Wicked: For Good, I witnessed firsthand how production designers, art directors, set decorators, and extraordinary crews created Oz not just as a setting, but as a living, breathing emotional landscape. I share this honor with the countless craftspeople who poured their hearts into those worlds, and I am deeply grateful to the Art Directors Guild and its members for this recognition.”
Additional Honors and Event Details
Alongside Jon M. Chu’s recognition, the ADG has announced that Wicked: For Good and the TV special Wicked: One Wonderful Night have received nominations for Excellence in Production Design Awards. The ceremony will also honor several lifetime achievement recipients, including Bo Welch, Jann Engel, Tom Southwell, and Stephen McNally.
These recognitions reinforce the significance of visual artistry in storytelling and celebrate professionals who elevate the cinematic experience through exceptional design and craftsmanship. The February 28 event at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown will not only highlight individual talents but also underscore the collective efforts behind some of the most visually compelling works in entertainment.
