Oscar makes bold move on AI use in films and performances
The Academy Awards makes historic update in the acting nomination system
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced major changes for AI and acting categories, that could reshape the future ceremonies.
A substantive slate of new and updated rules are for the 99th Oscars, set for 2027.
According to multiple outlets, the newly announced guidelines, performances “demonstrably performed by humans” with consent will be eligible for acting awards.
Similarly, screenplay contenders in both original and adapted categories must be written by humans to qualify for Oscar consideration.
The Academy also reserved the right to request additional proof of human authorship in projects involving generative AI tools.
One of the biggest and major change is the acting nominations.
Performers may now receive multiple nominations in the same category if their performances rank among the top five vote-getters, a move that finally aligns the acting races with the rest of the ballot.
The change has the potential to neutralize some of the presumed “category fraud,” at least for actors with two performances in play in the same year, in which a campaign team strategically pushes one turn into supporting to dodge a vote split.
The organisation has also expanded eligibility rules for the Best International Feature Film category, according to Vanity Fair.
Previously, countries could submit only one film for consideration. Under the revised rules, films that win major prizes at select international festivals may qualify independently, even without country’s submission.
Additionally, recognition in the category will now officially go to the film’s director rather than submitting nation.
The 99th Academy Award will be placed on March 14, 2027.
