Streaming-Only Films Will Now Be Considered For Oscar Nomination Because Of The Coronavirus Pandemic

TOPLINE

The coronavirus pandemic has forced the Academy Awards to allow films released only on streaming or video on demand platforms to be eligible for Oscar nominations, as social distancing measures measures caused the closure of many movie theatres and disrupted the traditional selection process.

KEY FACTS

Crucial quote

The Academy said in a statement: “The devastating COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of all Los Angeles County movie theaters as of Monday, March 16, 2020.  Current Academy Awards rules (under Rule Two, Eligibility) require that a film be shown in a commercial motion picture theater in Los Angeles County for a theatrical qualifying run of at least seven consecutive days, during which period screenings must occur at least three times daily. 

“Until further notice, and for the 93rd Awards year only, films that had a previously planned theatrical release but are initially made available on a commercial streaming or VOD service may qualify in the Best Picture, general entry and specialty categories for the 93rd Academy Awards.”

Key background

Movie theatres across the U.S. are not poised to open until new major films are released. Despite some Republican governors making plans to reopen states including Georgia and Oklahoma, AMC is among leading movie theatre firms refusing to reopen its 600+ theatres until at least mid-July, when Hollywood blockbusters such as Mulan will be released. The company’s corporate staff and 150,000 theatre workers have been furloughed amid the closures. 

Meanwhile, the U.S. box office is likely to take a big hit from the closures, as well as the delay of anticipated blockbuster releases such as James Bond film No Time to Die, Lovebirds and Top Gun Maverick.

Further reading

Awards rules and campaign regulation approved for 93rd Oscars (Oscars.org)

Hollywood Braces For Coronavirus Slump As Theaters Close, Movie Releases Get Pushed Back (Forbes)

Everything Coming To Netflix
NFLX In May 2020 — And What To Watch (Forbes)

Full coverage and live updates on the Coronavirus