The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced another update to this year’s Oscars eligibility requirements, allowing movies shown in cinemas to qualify for Best Picture and General Entry categories.
In addition to the April Amendment that grants eligibility for films that do not contain traditional theatrical releases as long as they are uploaded to the academy’s screening room, the new rule clarifies that only seven-day theatrical productions are required and that theaters are eligible to be a commercial venue.
“The council initially made changes to the rules last spring in response to the closure of theaters, which allowed films that could not be shown in theaters to qualify through the academy’s screening room,” the academy’s board of directors said in a statement.
With the gradual reopening of theaters, an appendix has been added to illustrate two methods of qualification in the Best Film category and general entry to advance to the end of this exceptional awards year (February 28, 2020).
The new rules below: “Films intended for theatrical release, but initially provided through a commercial broadcast, VOD service, or other broadcast, may be eligible by making the film available on the Academy Screening Room member’s secure site within 60 days of the movie stream / VOD version or broadcast.
OR Films may qualify for a conventional theatrical release, to complete a seven-day tour of one of six eligible cities (Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco / Bay Area, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta), showing at least three times per day, with one screening At least between 6 PM and 10 PM daily.
“In addition, theaters in these cities will now qualify as a commercial venue, however, viewing requirements will be adjusted from three times per day to once per day. Films with a theatrical release need not be submitted to the Academy screening room within 60 days – it is my choice “.
The 93rd Academy Awards will take place on April 25, 2021. – Reuters
