Quote from Alex bobby on April 22, 2025, 6:53 AM

The Academy Announces New Oscar Rules for 2026: Voting, AI, Refugee Filmmakers, and Casting Category Overhaul

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has unveiled a sweeping series of rule changes ahead of the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026. The new regulations touch on key issues shaping the film industry today—including voting procedures, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), representation of refugee filmmakers, and the launch of the long-awaited Achievement in Casting category.

Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what’s new and what it means for Oscar hopefuls.

Mandatory Viewing for Voters

In a move many see as long overdue, Oscar voters will now be required to watch all nominated films in any category they intend to vote in during the final round. Previously, Academy members were encouraged—but not obligated—to watch the films they voted on, leading to widespread criticism over potential uninformed decisions.

“Academy members must now watch all nominated films in each category to be eligible to vote in the final round for the Oscars,” the Academy announced.

While this decision has been broadly welcomed as a step toward fairness and integrity, questions remain over how the Academy will enforce it. There’s currently no public detail on whether a tracking system, quizzes, or a certification process will be implemented to ensure compliance.

Artificial Intelligence: Use, Not Abuse

As AI continues to infiltrate every facet of modern life—including filmmaking—the Academy has clarified its stance. The use of generative AI and other digital tools will neither help nor hinder a film's chances of receiving a nomination.

However, the Academy emphasised that each branch will consider the degree of human authorship involved. “The Academy and each branch will judge the achievement, taking into account the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship,” the statement read.

This clarification follows recent controversy surrounding The Brutalist, a 2024 Oscar contender that used AI to enhance dialogue in Hungarian. While the film went on to secure major nominations—including a Best Actor win for Adrien Brody—the incident sparked debate over the boundaries of AI in artistic creation.

New Guidelines for Refugee Filmmakers in the International Feature Film Category

In one of the most progressive rule updates, the Academy has revised its policy for Best International Feature Film eligibility. Now, filmmakers with refugee or asylum status can be represented by countries where they currently reside, even if it’s not their country of origin.

The updated rule reads: “The submitting country must confirm that creative control of the film was largely in the hands of citizens, residents, or individuals with refugee or asylum status in the submitting country.”

This is a significant step toward inclusivity, especially for filmmakers fleeing authoritarian regimes. The current system, which entrusts national governments with selecting entries, has been criticised for sidelining dissident artists who lack state support.

A high-profile example is Mohammad Rasoulof, the Iranian director of The Seed of the Sacred Fig, who fled to Germany after facing imprisonment in Iran. His film was chosen by Germany as its official Oscar submission and went on to be nominated. Rasoulof welcomed the rule change, saying, “Culture is always prioritised above politics… it shines a light in the darkness, inspiring filmmakers working under repressive circumstances.”

However, the rule will not assist filmmakers like Jafar Panahi, another renowned Iranian director whose films often go unsubmitted due to political reasons, even though they are critically acclaimed and shown at major festivals like Cannes.

Casting Category Takes Center Stage

The Academy has also released new details on the recently introduced Achievement in Casting category, set to debut in the 2026 Oscars.

After an initial round of voting, a shortlist of 10 films will be determined. Then, casting branch members will attend a “bake-off” presentation, which includes Q&As with nominees and a showcase of their work.

This initiative acknowledges the critical role of casting directors in shaping narratives and selecting the talent that defines cinematic success. The new category represents another step toward inclusivity and recognition of behind-the-scenes crafts.

What’s Next?

These updates come just weeks after the Academy announced the launch of a new stunt performance category, which will be introduced in 2028. Both decisions reflect the Academy’s broader effort to evolve with the industry and correct long-standing gaps in recognition.

The 2026 Oscars will not only feature new rules and categories but also, potentially, a more thoughtful and well-informed voter base. While the practical enforcement of some rules—particularly mandatory film viewing—remains to be seen, the direction is clear: the Academy is embracing change.

As technology, politics, and global cinema continue to reshape the film landscape, the Oscars are finally catching up—and the next ceremony promises to be one of the most significant in years.