2025 Oscars: New Academy Rules Require Viewing All Nominated Films to Cast Your Vote – Here’s What You Need to Know!

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced new rules and updates for the 98th Oscars. These changes aim to enhance the transparency and fairness of the awards process.

The nominations voting period will be from January 12 to January 16, 2026. Nominees will be revealed on January 22, followed by the Oscar Nominees Luncheon on February 10. Final voting opens on February 26, ending on March 5, giving voters ample time to reflect on their choices before the big night on March 15.

One significant change is the new requirement for Academy members: to vote in the final round, they must watch all nominated films in their category. Members will need to confirm viewing through the Academy’s online platform or by submitting documentation for films watched elsewhere. This step aims to promote informed voting and reduce “coattail voting,” where members might vote based on popularity rather than merit.

Additionally, for the first time, the Oscars will honor an Achievement in Casting award. This recognizes the essential role of casting directors in shaping a film’s talent roster. The nominees will be chosen through a collaborative process involving reviews and discussions among casting directors and filmmakers.

The Academy has also issued its first formal guidance regarding the use of AI in filmmaking. The new rules clarify that using AI tools neither helps nor hinders a film’s chances for nomination. Instead, voters will judge based on the creative input from human contributors.

In another noteworthy adjustment, all nominees will now be listed on final ballots, instead of just the film titles. This change is especially beneficial for long-time nominees like Diane Warren.

Additional updates include:
– Expanded eligibility for the International Feature Film category to include filmmakers with refugee or asylum status.
– Animated Short Film voting will now open to all Academy members who have viewed the shortlisted films.
– Music category deadlines have shifted closer to the final voting period.

Historically, the Oscars have evolved to remain relevant. For instance, these changes reflect a growing emphasis on inclusivity and technological advancements in filmmaking. Notably, a 2023 survey indicated that 76% of audiences value diversity in film nominations, highlighting the industry’s shift toward a more inclusive approach.

As we look ahead, the slate for this year is quite promising. Future films by acclaimed directors like Guillermo del Toro and Chloé Zhao are generating excitement.

The Oscars continue to adapt to the landscape of filmmaking. The complete calendar of key dates and submissions for the 2025 awards is available on the Academy’s official website.



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