Inclusion Exemptions for Non-Best Picture Competitors at Academy Awards
The Academy said the films not bothering to compete for Best Picture won’t have to complete a form adhering to their inclusion rules.
When the Academy announced its intention to implement inclusion standards in 2020, the decision sparked a mix of applause and criticism. As these regulations prepare to take full effect for the upcoming Academy Awards, a notable exception emerges—those not vying for the highly coveted Best Picture Oscar.
According to Deadline, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has provided updated details on its Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) policies via their FAQ page. Specifically addressing the question, “Is it necessary to create a RAISE submission form for a film that I don’t want to be considered for Best Picture?”, the Academy clarified that the inclusion requirements would not apply in this case. The response stated, “You will have the option to opt-in or opt-out for Best Picture consideration. If you do decide to opt-out, then you do not need to fill out a RAISE form.”
The initial unveiling of the Academy’s inclusion guidelines featured a tiered approach, aiming to achieve certain levels of diversity among core cast members, crew personnel, and studio executives. Additionally, the rules aimed to create more opportunities for apprentices and interns. The Academy’s goal was clear, stating, “The standards encourage equitable representation on and off-screen to better reflect the diverse global population.”
On average, around 300 films become eligible for the Best Picture Oscar each year. Given that the number of nominees is capped at 10, and realistically, the list of films with a strong chance of nomination is even smaller, many movies won’t need to adhere to the Academy’s inclusion rules. However, those seeking to compete for the prestigious award will still need to submit a form detailing statistics related to factors such as race and gender.
This new addendum to the Academy’s inclusion rules raises intriguing questions about the impact on the Best Picture nominees. What changes will this exemption bring to the composition of the nominees? Share your insights and thoughts on this development in the comments section below.
