In a groundbreaking announcement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has revealed significant changes to the Oscars, including a new policy that allows actors to receive multiple nominations in the same category. Alongside this, the Academy has introduced stringent restrictions prohibiting the use of artificial intelligence in acting and writing awards, ensuring that human creativity remains at the forefront of the cinematic arts.
New Policies for a New Era
The Academy’s latest reforms were unveiled on Friday, aiming to address the evolving landscape of film and performance. Under the new rules, only performances that are “demonstrably performed” by human actors will qualify for acting awards. This move comes in response to growing concerns regarding AI’s role in the industry, particularly following the posthumous use of AI technology to complete the performance of the late Val Kilmer, who passed away in 2025.
In a bid to maintain the integrity of artistic contributions, the Academy has made it clear that only screenplays authored by humans will be eligible for writing awards. This shift represents a decisive stand against the encroachment of AI in creative processes, ensuring that genuine human talent is recognised and celebrated.
Multiple Nominations: A Game Changer
One of the most notable changes is the Academy’s decision to permit multiple nominations for a single actor within the same category. For years, the Oscars adhered to a policy where only the highest-voted performance by an actor could receive a nomination. This change aligns acting awards with other categories, such as directing, where Steven Soderbergh famously secured nominations for both *Erin Brockovich* and *Traffic* in 2001.
Now, should an actor deliver multiple outstanding performances that garner enough votes, all qualifying performances can be acknowledged, allowing for a richer and more diverse representation of talent in the nominations.
Revisions to International Feature Eligibility
In addition to the changes regarding acting nominations, the Academy has revised its approach to the Best International Feature category. Previously, only one film per country could be nominated, but now, countries can submit multiple entries, provided they secure top accolades at leading film festivals, including Cannes, Berlin, and Sundance.
Furthermore, the award will now recognise the director by name, rather than simply attributing it to the country of origin. This shift acknowledges the individual artistry behind the films, marking a significant evolution in how international cinema is celebrated at the Oscars.
Additional Changes and Future Directions
The Academy has also introduced several smaller amendments, such as increasing the number of individuals eligible for the Best Casting award from two to three. Additionally, the shortlist for Best Cinematography has been expanded to include 20 contenders, offering a greater chance for talented cinematographers to gain recognition.
Looking ahead, the 99th Oscars are scheduled for March 14, 2027, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. A major shift is on the horizon, as the awards will transition to the Peacock Theatre in 2029, with a new broadcasting arrangement moving from ABC to YouTube for the following decade.
Why it Matters
These sweeping changes signal a pivotal moment for the Oscars, reflecting the Academy’s commitment to adapting to the rapidly changing film landscape. By embracing multiple nominations and reinforcing the importance of human creativity, the Academy not only preserves the integrity of its awards but also revitalises the excitement surrounding the Oscars. As the industry grapples with the implications of technology on artistry, these reforms ensure that the essence of storytelling remains rooted in human experience and ingenuity.
