Academy Amends Eligibility Rules with a New Addendum

The Academy continues to roll with whatever punches the pandemic throws at us, tonight refining the definition of theatrical release and adjusting eligibility rules to our ever-evolving reality.

(Press Release) On October 6, the Academy’s Board of Governors passed an addendum to Awards Rule Two regarding eligibility.

The Board initially made rule changes this past spring in response to theater closures, allowing films unable to screen in theaters to qualify via the Academy Screening Room.  With the gradual re-opening of theaters, an addendum was added to clarify the two methods for qualification in the Best Picture and general entry categories moving forward through the end of this exceptional awards year (February 28, 2021.)

1. Films which are intended for theatrical release, but are initially made available through commercial streaming, VOD service or other broadcast may qualify by making the film available on the secure Academy Screening Room member site within 60 days of the film’s streaming/VOD release or broadcast.
2. Films may qualify with a traditional theatrical release, completing a seven-day run in one of six qualifying cities (Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco/Bay Area, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta), screening at least three times daily, with at least one screening between 6 pm and 10 pm daily.  Additionally, drive-in theaters in these cities will now qualify as a commercial venue, however, the screening requirement will be adjusted from three times daily to once daily.  Films that have a theatrical release are not required to submit to the Academy Screening Room within 60 days—It is optional.

The complete Rules Addendum will be posted at www.oscars.org/rules as a separate document under the 93^rd Academy Awards Rules.