New Policy Aims to Eliminate Influence of Trends on Voting
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, responsible for bestowing the prestigious Oscar awards, has announced a significant change in its voting rules. Starting from the next Oscars ceremony in March 2026, members will be required to watch all nominated films within the category they wish to vote for.
Previous Voting Practices
Previously, voters were required to attest verbally that they had watched the nominated films. However, in practice, some members would select nominees without having seen the actual productions, often swayed by popular opinion or trends.
This new rule aims to ensure that members are well-informed and base their votes on actual viewings of the nominated films rather than external influences.
Studio Campaigns for Best Picture Nomination
Studios vying for the Best Picture Oscar have traditionally campaigned to ensure that voters watch their films. These efforts include hosting events such as film festivals, private or public screenings, and Q&A sessions with actors.
Despite these efforts, there has been no formal verification process to confirm that Academy members have indeed watched the nominated films.
Academy’s Plan for Verification
According to the Hollywood Reporter, the Academy may utilize its members-only streaming platform to verify film viewings. Members who watch nominated films outside this platform, such as at film festivals or cinemas, will need to complete a form detailing when and where they watched the film.
Academy Addresses Use of Artificial Intelligence in Filmmaking
In addition to the viewing requirement, the Academy has also addressed concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking following controversies with “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Pérez.”
The Academy clarified that the use of AI or other technological tools in filmmaking does not disqualify a movie from Oscar contention.
“The Academy and each category’s judges will consider performances without bias towards or against AI-generated films,” the statement read.
The focus remains on human creativity and contribution in the filmmaking process, ensuring fair evaluation of all nominated films.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the new rule regarding viewing nominated films? Academy members must now watch all nominated films in a category before casting their final Oscar vote.
- How will the Academy verify that members have watched the films? The Academy may use its members-only streaming platform for verification. Members watching films outside this platform will need to complete a form detailing their viewing experience.
- How does the Academy view the use of AI in filmmaking? The Academy confirms that using AI or other technological tools in filmmaking does not disqualify a movie from Oscar contention. The emphasis is on human creativity and contribution in the filmmaking process.
