The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced several updates to the rules for the 99th Oscar Awards, scheduled for March 14, 2027. These changes span multiple categories and introduce new standards for acting, international feature films, and the use of generative AI.
Major Shifts in Acting Categories
The most notable change involves actor nominations. Previously, if an actor received multiple top-five votes for different performances, only the single most-voted performance was eligible. Under the new rules, actors can now be nominated for multiple performances in the same category—whether lead or supporting—provided those performances each earn enough votes.
Furthermore, the Academy has set strict eligibility requirements for acting roles. Only roles performed by humans with their consent and credited in the film’s legal billing will be considered. This update serves to address ongoing industry discussions regarding the use of AI-generated likenesses in cinema.
AI and Human Authorship
The Academy has taken a firm stance on generative AI. They now reserve the right to request detailed information regarding the extent of AI use and the degree of human authorship in any submitted project. Additionally, the rules now formally codify that all screenplays must be human-authored to qualify for writing categories. This reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to human artistry despite rapid technological changes.
Significant Benefits for Indian Cinema
Indian filmmakers may find a significant advantage in the updated Best International Feature category rules. Previously, each country was limited to submitting only one film via an Academy-approved local committee.
Now, a film can qualify for consideration if it wins the top prize at major festivals, including the following:
- Berlin (Golden Bear)
- Busan (Best Film Award)
- Cannes (Palme d’Or)
- Sundance (World Cinema Grand Jury Prize)
- Toronto (Platform Award)
- Venice (Golden Lion)
Consequently, a single country could potentially secure multiple nominations in this category. Furthermore, the award will now be presented directly to the film’s director, ensuring the filmmaker’s name appears on the Oscar plaque and in official record books.
Updates to Other Categories
The Academy also introduced technical and structural changes:
- Casting: The number of statuettes awarded for casting increases from two to three.
- Cinematography: The preliminary shortlist is now fixed at 20 films, replacing the previous sliding range.
- Visual Effects: Members must now view the specific “Before and After” reels from the Bake-Off event to be eligible to vote in the final round.
- Governors Awards: Honorees must now represent a minimum of three distinct disciplines.
These rules were developed by various branch committees and approved by the Board of Governors. As the industry prepares for the 99th Oscars, these adjustments aim to refine the awards process and better reflect the evolving landscape of global filmmaking.