Academy Mandates Viewing of All Nominated Films for Oscar Voting Eligibility

In a significant move to enhance the integrity and fairness of the Oscar voting process, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced a new requirement: all voters must watch every nominated film in their respective categories to be eligible to cast ballots in the final round of the Academy Awards. This change, which has been rolled out in recent years, marks a shift toward ensuring that votes are cast with full awareness of the competing works, addressing long-standing concerns about uninformed or biased voting.

A Push for Informed Voting

The Academy’s decision comes in response to criticism that some voters in the past may have cast ballots based on reputation, buzz, or partial viewings rather than a comprehensive evaluation of all nominees. Historically, the Oscars have faced scrutiny over voting patterns, with reports suggesting that some members skipped certain films—particularly in specialized categories like Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary, or Best International Feature—due to time constraints, lack of access, or personal disinterest. The new rule aims to level the playing field and ensure that every nominated film is given due consideration.

Under the updated guidelines, voters in each branch (e.g., actors, directors, cinematographers) must confirm they have viewed all nominated films in the categories they intend to vote on during the final round. For instance, to vote for Best Picture, members must watch all nominated films—typically 10, though the number can vary. Similarly, those voting in categories like Best Animated Feature or Best Original Score must view all contenders in those fields. The Academy has emphasized that this requirement applies across the board, regardless of a voter’s branch or seniority.

Implementation and Enforcement

To facilitate compliance, the Academy has expanded access to nominated films through its official screening platforms. The Academy Screening Room, a secure online portal, allows members to stream most nominated films, particularly those that may not have wide theatrical releases or are harder to access, such as short films or international features. Physical screenings are also organized in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and London, and some distributors provide DVD or Blu-ray screeners for voters’ convenience.

To enforce the viewing requirement, the Academy tracks viewership through its screening platforms and may require voters to verify their attendance at physical screenings. While the exact mechanisms for enforcement remain discreet, the Academy has indicated that failure to meet the viewing threshold disqualifies members from voting in the affected categories. This system has been designed to balance accountability with practicality, acknowledging the demanding schedules of its nearly 10,000 members worldwide.

Impact on the Voting Process

The new rule has sparked a range of reactions within the industry. Proponents argue that it promotes fairness and encourages voters to engage with a broader spectrum of films, including independent, international, and underrepresented works that might otherwise be overlooked. For example, films like Drive My Car (2021) or Parasite (2019), which hail from outside the Hollywood mainstream, may benefit from increased visibility among voters who are now obligated to watch them.

However, some members have expressed concerns about the time commitment required, particularly for categories with numerous nominees or for voters juggling busy professional lives. Watching all nominated films, especially in a category like Best Picture, can demand dozens of hours, and the additional burden of viewing short films or documentaries adds to the challenge. To address this, the Academy has extended the voting window in recent years, giving members more time to complete their viewings before ballots are due.

Broader Implications for the Oscars

The viewing mandate aligns with other recent Academy initiatives aimed at modernizing and diversifying the Oscars. Over the past decade, the organization has expanded its membership to include more women, people of color, and international professionals, seeking to reflect the global nature of filmmaking. The viewing requirement complements these efforts by ensuring that diverse nominees—whether in terms of genre, origin, or perspective—are evaluated on their merits rather than preconceived notions.

Moreover, the rule may influence campaigning strategies. Studios and distributors now have greater incentive to ensure their films are accessible to voters, whether through screenings, streaming, or targeted outreach. Smaller films with limited marketing budgets could gain a more equitable shot at recognition, as voters are compelled to watch them alongside bigger, studio-backed contenders.

Challenges and Future Considerations

While the viewing requirement has been largely welcomed, it is not without challenges. Some voters, particularly older members or those in regions with limited screening access, may find it difficult to meet the demands. The Academy has pledged to continue improving access, but disparities in technology or availability could still pose issues. Additionally, there’s the question of whether mandatory viewing guarantees thoughtful engagement, as voters might rush through films to check a box rather than fully appreciating their artistry.

Looking ahead, the Academy may refine the system based on member feedback and technological advancements. For instance, integrating artificial intelligence to personalize viewing schedules or expanding virtual reality screenings could make the process more seamless. The organization might also consider tiered voting options, allowing members to opt out of certain categories if they cannot meet the viewing requirements, while still participating in others.

A Step Toward Greater Accountability

The Academy’s mandate that voters watch all nominated films represents a bold step toward accountability and fairness in the Oscar process. By prioritizing informed decision-making, the organization is reinforcing its commitment to celebrating cinematic excellence in all its forms. While the rule presents logistical challenges, it underscores the importance of giving every nominee a fair chance to shine—a principle that lies at the heart of the Academy Awards.

As the film industry continues to evolve, so too will the Oscars. For now, this new requirement ensures that voters approach their ballots with a deeper understanding of the year’s finest achievements in cinema, fostering a more equitable and meaningful celebration of the art form.

Note: For the latest details on Academy rules or specific Oscar cycles, members and fans can refer to the official Academy website at oscars.org.