Considering the COVID-19 pandemic has stopped a lot of movies from premiering this year, there’s going to be slim pickings during this year’s Academy Awards. With so many businesses and organizations needing to adjust their normal day to day, it seems the Oscars will do the same.
Currently, the board of governors for the Academy of Motions Picture Arts and Science has approved of a hold of the rule that says a movie must be in the theaters for seven days in order to qualify for consideration for an Oscar. Movies will be allowed to be released digitally without any theatrical release. In order for a streaming film to be considered, it must have had a planned theatrical release. It must also be made available on the “academy Screening Room member-only streaming site within 60 days of the film’s streaming or VOD release” (Variety).
David Rubin, the Academy president; and Dawn Hudson, CEO; stated:
“The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theater. Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering. Nonetheless, the historically tragic COVID-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our awards eligibility rules. The Academy supports our members and colleagues during this time of uncertainty. We recognize the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate movies more than ever.”
That seven-day requirement will go back into effect once movie theaters can re-open.
Additional Changes
- The Oscars will also eliminate a category. Sound mixing and sound editing, which were previously two separate categories; will be combined into one award. Additionally, all Academy members will be invited to “participate in the preliminary round of voting for international feature film. Members will have to meet a minimum viewing requirement to be allowed to vote. (Variety)”
- The board has voted that an original score must be 60% of the original music for the Original Score category. In order for a sequel and franchise film to be nominated, it must have 80% of new music.
- The Academy has voted to eliminate DVD screeners. DVD mailers will be banned after this year.
The upcoming Oscars will air on ABC on February 28, 2021.
What do you think of all of the changes?
Sources: Variety
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