How the Academy Is Encouraging Thorough Oscar Voting
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is emphasizing a fuller engagement with its nominations this awards season. An internal email obtained by NBC News reveals a policy shift asking Oscar voters to confirm that they have watched every film nominated in each category before submitting ballots. The move aims to improve the integrity of the voting process and ensure that ballots reflect informed, deliberate choices rather than selective viewing.
What the Policy Entails
According to the leaked communication, members are required to verify that they have viewed all qualifying films in each category. This means voters may need to watch a broader slate of contenders than in previous years, especially in crowded categories like Best Picture, Best Director, and the acting categories where multiple titles compete for attention.
The Academy reportedly uses confirmations as a compliance check rather than a punitive measure. Still, the step underscores the expectation that voters engage with the full breadth of Academy-nominated work rather than relying on reputation, buzz, or conversations alone.
Why This Change Matters for Voters and Recipients
For voters, the requirement adds a layer of accountability and may influence how ballots are completed. It encourages thorough viewing, particularly for films that fly under the radar or face limited release windows. For films and their campaigns, the policy can shift emphasis toward ensuring accessibility and visibility so that eligible voters can actually watch every contender before casting a vote.
Film industry observers say the move could affect how campaigns are run. When voters acknowledge having seen all contenders, arguments for or against particular titles might carry more weight, potentially leveling influence among a larger pool of nominees rather than a small, highly engaged subset.
Potential Challenges and Reactions
Critics may worry about the practicality of watching every nominated film, especially in a year with numerous contenders across streaming, limited releases, and regional premieres. Some members work under tight schedules, and access to certain titles can vary. The policy may spark debates about viewer fatigue versus the goal of informed decision-making.
Proponents argue that stronger verification could reduce the impact of fan campaigns and outsize buzz on voting decisions, promoting a more thoughtful, merit-based process.
What This Means for the Oscar Race
As the season progresses, studios and campaigns might respond by expanding access to screeners, host Q&As, and provide clearer, more equitable release windows to reach all Academy members. The underlying principle is simple: when voters can verify they’ve seen every nominated film, ballots reflect a more comprehensive understanding of the field, not just a subset of well-marketed titles.
Looking Ahead
The controversy and its fallout will likely shape how studios approach nominations and outreach in future years. The Academy’s emphasis on viewing thoroughness could become a standard expectation if the policy proves practical and accepted by members. In the meantime, voters face the task of navigating a crowded slate with diligence, curiosity, and a commitment to informed judgment.
