Academy Requires Oscar Voters to Watch All Nominated Films

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has implemented a new rule requiring Oscar voters to watch all nominated films in a category before casting their votes in the final round, ending the previous honor system that allowed members to vote without seeing every contender. This procedural change is designed to ensure a more informed and fair voting process, addressing longstanding criticisms that some awards were given to films unseen by voters. Compliance will be tracked through the Academy’s streaming platform or verified via a form if films are watched elsewhere. The Academy also introduced new regulations, including updated eligibility for international feature films to allow refugee or asylum-seeking filmmakers to be represented by their country of residence. Additionally, for the first time, casting will be recognized as an Oscar category and new guidelines clarify that the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking neither helps nor hinders a film’s chances. These reforms aim to modernize the Oscars and improve transparency and representation.