Oscar statuettes appear backstage at the Oscars in Los Angeles on Feb. 26, 2017. AP Photo
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced a major change in Oscar voting rules. Starting immediately, voters must watch all nominated films in a category to cast their final votes.
Previously, members were only encouraged to watch contenders. They could vote based on personal judgment and skip films they hadn’t seen. However, concerns have grown over how viewing habits impact final decisions.
Anonymous ballots often revealed that many voters hadn’t seen key films—especially lengthy or lesser-known entries. This raised fairness issues.
Rule Changes Reflect Push for Fairness and Representation
In response, the Academy has tightened guidelines to promote informed decision-making. This shift is expected to influence voting outcomes more equitably.
Other changes announced also reflect the Academy's effort to adapt to evolving industry and global dynamics.
New Rules Empower Refugee Filmmakers
In the Best International Feature Film category, a major rule tweak has opened new doors.
Filmmakers with refugee or asylum status can now have their films submitted by a country other than their homeland.
The updated rule states that the submitting country must confirm that creative control was largely in the hands of its citizens, residents, or those with refugee status.
This change aims to support filmmakers from oppressive regimes or unstable countries.
A Step Forward for Artists in Exile
This move follows criticism that the international film category gives too much control to governments.
For example, Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof fled Iran last year to avoid imprisonment. He released The Seed of the Sacred Fig, which Germany submitted for Oscar consideration. The film was nominated.
Others, like Rasoulof’s fellow filmmaker Jafar Panahi, haven’t had the same access due to lack of submission by their countries.
Still, the Academy noted that the change won’t help those who haven’t left their home countries or whose films were passed over by selection committees.
AI Use Won’t Affect Nominations—Positively or Negatively
The Academy also addressed the growing use of generative artificial intelligence in filmmaking.
It clarified that AI’s involvement will not help or harm a film’s Oscar chances. Each submission will be judged based on human creative input.
This comes after controversy around The Brutalist, where AI was reportedly used to enhance dialogue. The film’s lead actor Adrien Brody went on to win Best Actor.
Casting Category Gets Its Own Voting Process
A structured voting method has been established for the newly added casting achievement category.
After an initial shortlist of 10 films is created, a “bake-off” session will follow. This includes in-depth presentations and Q&A sessions with casting nominees.
Stunt Design Award to Launch in 2028
While the casting award takes effect sooner, the new category for stunt design won’t debut until the 2028 Oscars.
Next Oscars Scheduled for March 2026
The 98th Academy Awards will be held on March 15, 2026. Conan O’Brien will return as host on ABC.
