In response to several controversial campaigns from last Oscar season – most notably A-listers in support of Andrea Riseborough Social media-centric and event-driven effort, little-known independent film earns unexpected Best Actress Oscar nomination to Leslie
— Governor of the Board of Directors Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences self-
The most radical reform since its inception.
The revised guidelines were published last Friday Approved at a board meeting and announced Monday, it is part of an effort to “create clarity, fairness and transparency about how studios and individuals directly associated with award-eligible films promote [them].” 1235325509
It doesn’t prevent members from posting on social media – in fact it clearly states, “You can encourage others to watch the movie” and “You can praise the movie” and achievements . ’ But, as if in response to the kind of outreach by at least one Riseborough advocate, it bans any discussion of voting: “You must not at any time share your voting decisions. You may not discuss your voting preferences and those of other members in public forums. This includes comparing or ranking movies, shows or achievements related to the vote. This also includes talking to the media anonymously. You may not attempt to encourage other members to vote or not to vote for any movie or achievement. [and] you may not solicit other Members to promote a film, performance or achievement, directly or in ways that go beyond these promotional regulations. “
It has also established an email hotline through which members or non-members can confidentially report suspected campaign violations – promotionalregulations@ oscars.org – also notes that violations “may include, but are not limited to: suspension or revocation of mailing and communications privileges; revocation of privileges to participate in Academy events; cancellation of award eligibility for a film, performance, or achievement; revocation of Oscar nominations; revocation of voting rights; suspension of Academy membership; and expulsion of a member of the Academy.
Additionally, there is now a cap on the number of pre-nominated “hosted” screenings (four) and a blanket ban on “hosted” post-screenings; There are no restrictions on either type. While the academy acknowledges that it cannot and will not consider private gatherings — the kind called by some of Riseborough’s supporters — as “FYC events,” it expressly prohibits studios from funding, organizing or supporting Such activity.
During last season’s final round of Oscar voting, some members complained that a post on social media was blocked by Academy Dean Janet Yang quickly deleted which some interpreted as Michelle Yeoh Best Actress Contender Everything Everywhere All at Once
. Seemingly referring to that commotion, the board is hitting its own governor’s ability to weigh or otherwise influence the outcome of the Oscars. Unless they’re directly related to the movie, governors may no longer: (b) hold Private events or gatherings celebrating film or filmmaking achievements; (c) hosting screenings or moderated Q&A or panel discussions, unless they are convened by the Academy.
Board of Directors Some terms and conditions have also been relaxed. Gone is the cap on allowed post-nomination Q&As (previously no more than four were allowed). Companies and filmmakers can now refer to films as “shortlisted” in promotional materials , as long as you designate a finalist category or category (this was not allowed before).
Additionally, the Academy, which banned mailing hard copy screeners to members a few years ago, now The mailing of any other kind of physical material to members, including postcards and screening schedules, has already been banned, ostensibly as part of its commitment to sustainability. Going forward, such information will only be delivered digitally through college-approved mailing stations.
The Academy is also experimenting with building its digital screening platform, the Academy Screening Room, by offering a cost less than $15 $10,000 film introduces [unspecified amount] discount rate, more accessible to smaller studios and filmmakers.
The organization is introducing a split submission deadline for the 96 Oscar race, requiring films released between January 1 and June 30 Submissions will be finalized in September , and films released July 1-Dec 30 will be completed in November .
The Academy also reminds members that their The “Inclusive Standards” will first be in 2020, and will be fully effective this season. (THR was informed that members have been invited to a virtual meeting in May Learn more about them.)
It also fixes who can and cannot weigh in the two Oscar categories. At least half of the selection committee for the best international feature film must now be made up of filmmakers (artists and craftsmen, not executives and publicists). But now anyone can choose to be part of the Best Live Action Short Film selection committee.
