The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has forced The Oscars to make a one-time exception for streaming eligibility.
According to the Academy, movies initially made available via streaming or video on demand will be allowed compete for best picture in next year’s awards.
The decision came from the board for the group that presides over the Academy Awards. The group is called Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Several other changes have also been made to the awards process; among them, the consolidation of sound editing and sound mixing into one “sound” category.
The Academy cited the forced closure of theaters due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It noted that only movies with a “previously planned theatrical release” would be eligible. Previously, films needed to have at least a week-long theatrical run in order to qualify for consideration.
Academy’s statement
In a statement, Academy president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson stressed that the organization’s commitment to the theatrical experience is “unchanged and unwavering.”
“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.”
After low ratings for this year’s Oscars, the board approved several additional procedural changes. Among them allowing all members to vote in the international feature film category. The category was known as best foreign-language film.
The Academy also announced that the current award season will be the last in which studios are allowed to distribute DVD screeners to voters. Citing environmental concerns, distribution of will shift to digital versions in 2021
The date for the 93rd annual Academy Awards remains Feb. 28 of next year, although the Academy acknowledged that additional changes might be necessary; “based on national guidelines, state-mandated government orders and Academy-determined best practices.”