New Oscar rules require voters to see a person nominated, support refugee filmmakers
The academy now needs Oscar voters to watch all the enrolled films in one category. New rules support refugee filmmakers, clarify AI use, and introduce future awards for casting and stunt design
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have made a significant change in the way Oscar winners are selected. From now on, Oscar voters will have to watch all the enrolled films in a category before voting in the final round. Previously, voters were advised only to watch films and could choose which categories had to vote at their discretion.
This step follows the growing apprehensions that some voters were ignoring films, especially short-known or longer, which actually had an impact on winning the award. In the past, secret interviews revealed that some voters accepted none of the nominees to see. The academy now hopes that this new regulation will level the playground and ensure more informed voting.
As reported by the Associated Press, another major change affects the best international film category. The academy will now allow refugee or refuge filmmakers to represent the country in which they currently live-only their motherland. Its objective is to give a fair shot to displaced but talented filmmakers in an Oscar idea.
Earlier, only formal presentations were allowed from the official government of each nation, which often excluded filmmakers from the totalitarian rule. Recently an example is Iranian director Mohammad Rasolof, who fled from Iran and was presented by Germany. This rule change may be able to make more filmmakers like him eligible.
AI usage will not affect enrollment
The academy also addressed the issue of artificial intelligence in film production. He clarified that the use of AI would not disqualify a film from enrollment. Instead, meditation will be on the creative and artistic ability of the work.
According to AP, a new category recognizing casting achievement is also in development. The finalist will be subject to a unique “bake-off” style presentation before the winner selection.
Meanwhile, the recently announced Oscar category for stunt design will begin in 2028.
The 2026 Oscar will be held on 15 March 2026 with Connon O’Brien as a host.
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