Key takeaways:
* Covid-era drive-in theater rule will no longer apply for next year’s Oscars.
* Major categories to be impacted include Best Picture and Animated Feature.
* Film release schedules and qualifying markets are among the revised regulations.
* Animated films in the International Feature Film category may qualify for the Animated Feature Film category.
The countdown to the 97th Academy Awards has always sparked excitement in the film world. However, with the recent announcement from The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, this anticipation is growing. New rule modifications promise significant changes to how films will compete for the top honors and how they’ll reach the race.
Unraveling the New Regulations
In contrast to the Covid-era guidelines, next year’s Oscar’s will no longer consider drive-in theaters as valid commercial markets. Major categories like Best Picture, Animated Feature, International Feature Film, Original Score, and writing categories are expected to see significant changes due to this modification.
One revamped rule has raised eyebrows. The academy now imposes an expanded theatrical run of seven days – consecutive or not – within no more than 45 days of the film’s initial release in 2024. This theatrical run should take place in at least 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets.
For films released late in the year with expansions beyond January 10, 2025, distributors need to submit their release plans to the academy for validation. The submitted plans must include an expanded theatrical run strategy, with launches completed by January 24, 2025.
Redefining The Markets
In an interesting shift, non-U.S. territory releases can now count towards two of the ten required markets. These qualifying outside markets embrace the top 15 international theatrical markets and the film’s home territory.
Replacing Miami, Dallas has stepped up as the U.S. metropolitan area to host Oscar contenders. The other hosting cities include Atlanta, New York City, Bay Area, Los Angeles County, and Chicago. Films released between January 1 and December 31 are now eligible for next year’s race.
Changes to Category Considerations
In the Animated Feature category, an applicable modification allows films previously submitted in the International Feature Film category to qualify – if the eligibility requirements outlined for both categories are met. Consequently, we may see a growth in entries for the animated feature category.
The eligibility period for the new International Feature Film category is now set from November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
Adjustments to Music (Original Score) Category
In another significant change, the rules for the Music (Original Score) category have been modified. Now, three composers can individually receive statuettes if they collectively contributed to the score. The rule previously required submitting as a group. These changes have also broadened the definition of a group as a recognized band.
In this category, the shortlist size has seen an expansion from 15 to 20 titles.
Tweaking the Writing Categories
Regarding Writing categories, a prominent change involves requiring a final shooting script for submission.
The Future of the Oscars
As we anticipate the 97th Academy Awards set for March 2, 2025, we can expect adjustments hard and fast. The application of these new rules is imminent. Filmmakers, studios, writers, actors, and crew members need to adapt quickly to the revamped regulations.
Will these modifications make the Oscars more appealing? Could further adaptations help increase viewership? Your insights are welcome in the comments section.
These rule changes mark a new trajectory for the Academy Awards. However, will this new law of the land enhance the Oscars or complicate the process? Only time will tell. As we prepare for the 2025 ceremony, we eagerly watch how the Academy manages these unprecedented changes.
In conclusion, one fact remains undeniable – the Academy Awards are changing. Now, the critical question is: will these changes make for more competition, greater inclusivity, and a better show overall? Only the next race can answer that.
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