Academy Sets New AI Guidelines for Oscars Eligibility

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released new guidelines that regulate the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking.

It will apply them ahead of the 99th ceremony in 2027. The Academy now reviews how filmmakers use AI tools in submitted projects. It places a strong focus on protecting human creativity.

The most significant change affects screenwriting awards. The Academy requires all eligible scripts to come from human writers. It does not accept screenplays that rely on AI-generated writing.

This rule covers both original and adapted screenplay categories. The Academy states that storytelling must remain a human-driven craft. It also responds to rising concern about automated writing in film production.

The Academy also defines limits for acting categories. It requires human performers to carry out all nominated roles. Actors must give consent for any use of their likeness.

This rule responds to the growing use of digital recreations in films. Some productions now use AI to recreate actors who have passed away or cannot perform.

One example appears in the film As Deep as the Grave. The production uses AI to recreate the presence of actor Val Kilmer. His daughter Mercedes Kilmer supports the project.

She explains that the idea began during her father’s illness. She also notes that people in the industry hold different views about AI use in storytelling.

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The Academy also introduces changes beyond AI rules. It allows actors to receive multiple nominations in one category during the same year.

A performer can compete against themselves if they appear in several films. For example, an actor like Josh O’Connor may receive more than one nomination in a single category.

The Academy also updates rules for international films. It now allows films from the same country to compete against each other in the international feature category.

This adjustment follows past cases where some films missed entry despite strong recognition elsewhere.

The Academy also revises technical and campaign rules. It updates guidance for casting, makeup, and hairstyling categories. It also clarifies how studios present their award campaigns. The goal focuses on fairness and clear evaluation across all categories.

The Academy says it will continue to monitor changes in technology. It will review its rules as tools evolve. It also maintains its focus on human-centered storytelling. The organization wants to balance innovation with fairness in film recognition.

Filmmakers respond in different ways to the new rules. Some welcome clear limits on AI use in writing and acting. They believe this protects original work.

Others see AI as a useful tool for editing and production tasks. They expect the industry to continue testing new methods in post-production and visual effects.

The Academy states that it will keep updating its policies as filmmaking evolves. It aims to ensure clear credit for human contributors in all major categories.

It also stresses that technology should support creativity without replacing it. These rules guide studios as they prepare films for future award seasons. The organization expects more discussion as filmmakers adjust to the requirements.

The Academy also reviews submissions closely to confirm compliance with the rules. It checks screenplay credits and performance records before final nominations.

It also works with category committees to apply consistent standards. These steps support fairness in the selection process. Filmmakers now pay closer attention to how they document creative work during production.

The guidelines may change again as new tools enter filmmaking. The Academy will continue to publish updates for filmmakers and studios. It will review feedback from the industry before making further decisions. These updates aim to keep award standards clear and consistent over time.