Academy Awards introduce major rule changes amid rising use of AI in film

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a series of significant rule changes for the Academy Awards, introducing updated guidelines on artificial intelligence, acting eligibility, and other key categories ahead of the next Oscars ceremony.

The revisions come as the film industry continues to grapple with the growing use of AI in filmmaking. 

According to updated guidance shared by the Academy, acting nominations will now only be eligible for performances “credited in the film’s legal billing and demonstrably performed by humans with their consent,” reinforcing the emphasis on human-led performances.

In addition, the writing categories have been tightened, with the Academy stating that screenplays must be “human-authored” to qualify for both Best Original Screenplay and Best Adapted Screenplay. 

The move is aimed at clarifying eligibility amid increasing use of generative tools in script development.

The Academy also addressed AI directly under its eligibility rules, stating it reserves the right to request further information about how artificial intelligence was used and to what extent human authorship was involved in submitted works.

Beyond technology-related changes, one of the most notable updates affects acting nominations. A long-standing restriction preventing performers from receiving multiple nominations in the same category has been removed. 

Actors may now be nominated for more than one performance in a single category, provided each role places within the top five votes.

Adjustments have also been made to the Best Original Song category, particularly regarding how music featured during end credits is evaluated. 

The Academy clarified that eligibility will depend on the placement of the song, and in specific cases, submitted clips must include the final 15 seconds of the film before the credits begin.

Additional updates span multiple branches, including casting, cinematography, international feature, visual effects, and makeup and hairstyling, reflecting broader efforts to modernize eligibility standards across the awards.

The changes come as the Oscars prepare for a major broadcast shift. The ceremony will move to YouTube starting in 2029 under a multi-year agreement that runs through 2033, ending the long-standing partnership with ABC, which has aired the awards since 1976.

The new deal will also include free global streaming of red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, and the Governors Ball, expanding international access to the event.