As cinemas around the globe are closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences held this Tuesday a meeting to decide the future of Oscar amid the current pandemic scenario. The organization came up with a historic decision: for the first time ever, the biggest award in Hollywood will allow films released directly on streaming platforms to qualify for a nomination.
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.
Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson stated in the entity’s official website
As a temporary decision, the Academy announced in its official website that this change only applies for the next edition and for productions “that had a previously planned theatrical release but are initially made available on a commercial streaming or VOD service”. The nomination will be possible in all categories, as long as the projects meet Oscar’s eligibility criteria and are made available on the Academy’s own streaming site within 60 days after the debut. “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,” Academy members David Rubin and Dawn Hudson wrote in the memo.
