The Academy has recognized artificial intelligence in filmmaking through vague eligibility rules for the 97th Oscars. Key updates include mandatory film viewing for voters, new eligibility for the Achievement in Casting award, and adjustments for voting in various categories. Generative AI’s influence on nominations remains unclear, with focus on human creativity as a determining factor.
The Academy has officially noted the presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking with its newly released eligibility rules for the upcoming 97th Oscars. However, the mention of generative AI is vague, merely acknowledging its existence while leaving it up to individual branches to define what constitutes human creativity. The lack of clarity raises questions about how AI’s involvement will be measured and its impact on nominations.
On another note, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has also released key dates for the 2025 awards season. Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 15, 2026, when the 98th Oscars will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET. A notable procedural change stipulates that Academy members must now view all nominated films in each category to vote in the final round of Oscars.
New eligibility rules for the inaugural Academy Award for Achievement in Casting have been set, introducing a preliminary voting round to shortlist ten films. Afterward, members will participate in a presentation to explore the shortlisted achievements, complete with a Q&A session with nominees.
Regarding generative AI, the Academy’s Science and Technology Council has now clarified that the use of such tools does not influence a film’s chances for nomination. Each branch will assess awards based on how integral a human was to the creative process. For films to qualify for the Best Picture category, they must submit proof of Producers Guild of America certification by specific deadlines in 2025.
Further changes include expanded voting privileges for all Academy members in the Animated Short Film category, requiring them to view all shortlisted films. In the Cinematography category, a preliminary round of voting will narrow down the entries to 10-20 films. Finally, the eligibility for the International Feature Film category has been adjusted to allow filmmakers with refugee status to have their creative contributions recognized. The submission deadlines for music categories have also been revised for clarity and efficiency, introducing earlier cutoffs for song submissions and original scores in 2025.
The Academy has cautiously acknowledged the influence of AI in filmmaking, leaving the precise guidelines for its integration ambiguous. While announcing dates for the 2025 awards and new voting protocols, they emphasize human creativity as paramount in nominations. As eligibility rules evolve, the Academy continues to adapt, ensuring inclusivity and recognized contributions from diverse filmmakers while advancing traditional voting processes.
Original Source: www.latfusa.com
