Streamed films eligible for Oscars this year

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced in a press release it sent to members of the press that streamed movies will be eligible for Oscars this year due to devastating COVID-19 pandemic forcing closures of Los Angeles County movie theaters as of March 16.

Under present Oscars rules (Rule Two, Eligibility to be precise), a movie has to be shown in a commercial movie theater in Los Angeles County for a theatrical qualifying run of at least seven back-to-back days, with screenings taking place at least three times every day.

Movies with an already scheduled theatrical release but which are initially made available on VOD or a commercial streaming service may qualify in specialty, general entry and Best Picture categories provided they are made available on the secure Academy Screening Room member-only streaming site within 60 days of the movie’s streaming or VOD release and they meet all other eligibility requirements.

This rules exemption applies only until a date that the Academy determines and when theaters reopen in accordance with specified local, state and federal guidelines and criteria.

“The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theater,” said Academy president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson in the press release US and Global News also received from the Academy. “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,” added the statement. “We recognize the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate movies more than ever.”

This change is part of rules and campaign regulations the Academy’s Board of Governors just approved for the 93rd Academy Awards.

The Academy said that for movies to meet the theatrical showing requirements more easily when cinemas reopen, it will expand the number of qualifying theaters beyond the LA County to include venues in more US metropolitan areas — Atlanta, Georgia; New York City, Miami, Florida; Chicago, Illinois and the Bay Area.

All matters of eligibility and rules will be evaluated by the Academy’s Awards and Events Committee.

The 93rd Oscars telecast is scheduled to air Sunday, February 28, 2021, on ABC.

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