With the ever-rising popularity of online streaming services like Netflix, more and more people are tuning their TVs and Computers to original films created on the platforms. Until this upcoming awards season, movies were required to have a theatrical release for Oscar consideration. However, that is no longer.
Beginning in 2021, streaming-only movies will be eligible for Academy Awards, such as the Oscar. The change is partly to do with changing consumer tastes, and even more due to the widespread closure of movie theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the second case being temporary, it seems the Academy’s decision will be short-lived.
“There is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theater. Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering. Nonetheless, the historically tragic COVID-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our awards eligibility rules.” The Academy said in an official statement.
Hopefully, we will see this change become permanent. Americans, as a whole, have been making strides towards dominating the consumer entertainment market from their own homes. With changing tastes comes changing times, and we need to prevent weighing down the next step of innovation.
TVDM101 Blog - Nick Vitagliano 