Academy Announces Changes to Oscar Rules and Campaign Regulations for 97th Awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced significant changes to the rules and campaign protocols for the 97th edition of the Oscars, set to take place on March 2, 2025. The modifications aim to address issues that arose during the previous awards season and provide more clarity and structure for the awards process.

One of the key changes is the expansion of theatrical requirements for the Best Picture category. Films must now screen for at least one week in six major metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles County, New York City, the Bay Area, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas-Fort Worth. They must also meet expanded theatrical standards in multiple US markets and international territories. Additionally, films are required to submit the Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form while meeting at least two out of the four inclusion requirements to be eligible for Best Picture consideration.

The Academy has also made adjustments to other award categories. In the Best Original Score category, up to three composers can now receive individual Oscar statuettes if they all significantly contributed to the film's music, a departure from the previous requirement of composers submitting as a group. The shortlist for this category has been expanded from 15 to 20 titles. For the Best International Feature category, animated films submitted by foreign countries can now be considered for both the animated feature and international feature categories if they meet the respective requirements.

Changes have also been made to the screenplay categories, with writers now required to provide a final shooting script for consideration in either the Original Screenplay or Adapted Screenplay category. This may impact films that rely heavily on improvisation.

The Academy has updated its campaign promotional regulations for Oscars-eligible motion pictures and performances. Drive-in theaters will no longer be recognized as a qualifying venue for Oscars eligibility, a temporary measure that was adopted in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Why this matters: The changes reflect the Academy's efforts to adapt to the evolving film industry landscape while maintaining the integrity and prestige of the Oscars. The new rules aim to promote greater inclusion and representation in the awards process and provide a more level playing field for all eligible films.

In a statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang said, "We are excited to announce these updates as we look forward to the 97th Oscars. These changes reflect our commitment to evolve with our industry and ensure that the Oscars remain relevant and inclusive." The revised rules and regulations will be in effect for the 97th Oscars, with the awards ceremony scheduled to take place on March 2, 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Oscars 2025 rules updated: Expanded theatrical requirements for Best Picture.
• Up to 3 composers can now receive individual Oscars for Best Original Score.
• Animated films can now be considered for both animated and international feature.
• Writers must provide final shooting script for screenplay categories.
• Drive-in theaters no longer qualify for Oscars eligibility.