As Hollywood turns its gaze toward the 98th Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced sweeping updates that could reshape the Oscar race. These include stricter voting eligibility rules, new category procedures, and guidance on the use of artificial intelligence — all of which reflect the organization’s evolving priorities in a rapidly changing industry.
A new requirement: Watch before you vote
One of the most consequential changes affects how members can cast their final votes. For the first time, Oscar voters will be locked out of voting in specific categories unless they can prove they’ve watched all the nominated films in those categories. While the Academy previously operated on an honor system, this policy now enforces transparency using its private streaming platform, the Academy Screening Room.
If members view films at public events, festivals, or screenings outside the platform, they must submit detailed forms declaring the time and place of viewing. This approach, inspired by similar practices at the BAFTA Awards, aims to reduce uninformed or “coattail” voting, ensuring that only well-informed opinions shape Oscar outcomes.
Giving recognition where it’s due: All nominees now listed
The Academy has also introduced what many are informally calling “the Diane Warren rule.” From now on, all nominees — including songwriters, designers, and editors — will be named on the final ballot, not just the project titles. This change could boost individual recognition, especially for behind-the-scenes contributors whose names might otherwise go unnoticed.
More inclusion for displaced filmmakers
In a significant move toward inclusivity, the Academy has adjusted the eligibility criteria for the Best International Feature Film category. Films created by directors with refugee or asylum status are now eligible for submission by the country they currently reside in, even if they are not official residents. This aims to support filmmakers who have been displaced due to geopolitical crises, recognizing their contributions regardless of formal residency status.
The long-awaited casting Oscar finally arrives
The 2026 Oscars will mark the debut of a new award for achievement in casting, a long-overdue acknowledgment of the art behind assembling unforgettable ensembles. This category will follow a two-stage voting process: an initial shortlist of ten films followed by a “bake-off” presentation, including Q&As with the nominated casting directors.
More shortlists, clearer recognition
In addition to casting, the Best Cinematography category will now include a shortlist — ranging from 10 to 20 titles — to highlight exceptional achievements before the final nominations. The Animated Short category has also joined the list of categories where Academy members can now “opt-in” to help select nominees, similar to the process for international features and live-action shorts.
Formalizing producer verification
To avoid the chaos seen at the most recent nominations — where several Best Picture nominees were announced without confirmed producers — the Academy now mandates earlier submission of Producers Guild of America (PGA) certifications. Filmmakers must submit these credentials months ahead of their film’s release to qualify for Best Picture consideration.
Artificial intelligence enters the spotlight — but with caution
After a season filled with controversy surrounding AI-generated content, particularly in films like The Brutalist and Emilia Pérez, the Academy has clarified its stance. While AI usage won’t disqualify a film, it won’t give it an advantage either. Instead, voters are encouraged to assess the human creative input behind the work, as per new language adopted by the Academy’s Science and Technology Council.
Festivals gain limited promotion privileges
Oscar-qualifying film festivals now have access to the Academy’s official email partners, allowing up to five promotional messages during the season. However, these communications must be strictly about programming and cannot promote individual films or Academy-related events such as panels or receptions.
