The 93rd Academy Awards arrangements, just like most things have been interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. To make sure that the crises don’t stop the occasion, the Academy is making new arrangements. They are allowing films including the International Feature films to qualify for Oscars nominations in 2021 without running in the theatres.
While other rules apply like release dates, films that run online and on VOD will be eligible for Oscar nominations in 2021.
A statement by the Academy said: “Until further notice, and for the 93rd Awards year only, films that had a previously planned theatrical release but are initially made available on commercial streaming or VOD service may qualify in the Best Picture, general entry and speciality categories for the 93rd Academy Awards.”
Best International Feature Films for Oscars 2021
This is the category that Nollywood would normally run for. This year, the Academy does not require an international film to screen in Los Angeles to qualify in this category.
The film, however, gets to screen in the Academy Screening Room within 60 days of online release.
Last year, 92nd international features including ‘Lionheart’ were submitted but did not make the cut.
Nollywood has a chance to get a spot on the International Feature Films of the 2021 Oscar as fewer countries are likey to submit. The category only demands subtitled digital prints for any movie submitted.
Movie theatres across Africa are anticipating a reopening date. South Africa has announced that they will reopen soon. Though they are yet to reopen, the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria, CEAN, are sharing safety measure that will be used when they reopen soon. They have included the compulsory use of face masks for filmgoers and ticket reservation technology.
The change in rules will only apply to next year’s 93rd Oscars in February 2021 and will be scrapped afterwards.
Related: Parasite win raises the bar for international films at the Oscars
Related: The real reason for ‘Lionheart’ disqualification by the Academy
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