The Oscars have announced that films that are only available on digital platforms are now qualifying for the best picture, general entry and speciality in the 2021 Oscars categories.
Movie theatres have been shut down across the globe due to the COVID-19 pandemic so the board of Governors of The Oscars decided to temporarily implement this measure.
Movies must have a pre-planned released date in the theatres in order for it to qualify under this amendment.
The film must meet all the requirements and it has to be made available to secure Academy Screening Room member-only streaming site within 60 days of the film’s streaming.
The President of The Academy David Rubin and the CEO Dawn Hudson said that the Academy firmly believe that there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theatre and their commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering.
They went and added that the Academy supports its members and colleagues during this tough time of uncertainty and they recognise the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now when the audience is more appreciative to movies.
The board added that as soon as the United States theatres have opened these temporary measure will no longer apply and all new films will then be expected to follow with the traditional requirements.
