Due to coronavirus, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has changed the eligibility rules for the 2021 Oscars. While normally films need to have at least a seven-day run in theaters in order to qualify for the awards show, this requirement has been waived for the time being to accommodate films released during the global pandemic.
After a board meeting on Tuesday, the board of the Academy announced that films which release digitally will still meet the guidelines for qualification. But not all online releases will count. In order to be eligible, the movies must have already been slated tor a theatrical release. Furthermore, the films need to be available on the Academy Screening Room within 60 days of the release.
After theaters reopen, the seven-day theatrical release requirement will be reinstated. Movies that were already released on streaming or VOD will not then also have to play in theaters. The Academy will also allow movies to play in New York City, the Bay Area, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta. Previously, films had to screen in Los Angeles.
"The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theater. Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering. Nonetheless, The Academy supports our members and colleagues during this time of uncertainty," Academy president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson said in a statement. "We recognize the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate movies more than ever."
(Via Variety.)