Oscars Abandon Post-Nomination Screenings Citing Dwindling Attendance
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made a significant change to its Oscar voting process by discontinuing post-nomination screenings for nominated films. This decision, which will take effect for the 2026 Academy Awards, comes as a direct response to consistently low attendance at these traditional in-person events.
Streaming Service Outshines Physical Screenings
The Academy revealed this move in its official Bulletin emailed to members last month, stating clearly that turnout for post-nomination screenings has been "incredibly small" in recent years. Data shows that Academy members attended an average of just five screenings over the past two years, a dramatic decline that began with the launch of the members-only Academy Screening Room streaming platform seven years ago.
This digital service allows members to watch eligible films conveniently from their homes, fundamentally changing how voters access content. Despite the elimination of organized post-nomination screenings, all nominated films will remain available through the Academy Screening Room, along with continued For Your Consideration screening opportunities.
Member Criticism and Visual Impact Concerns
Some Academy members have expressed concern about this shift, arguing that it disadvantages films specifically designed for the big screen experience. They point to visually spectacular works like Frankenstein and Avatar: Fire and Ash, whose sweeping cinematography and immersive visual effects lose significant impact when viewed on television screens rather than in proper theatrical settings.
This creates an interesting paradox for an organization dedicated to celebrating motion pictures while increasingly relying on small-screen viewing for its voting process. The tension between cinematic artistry and practical accessibility continues to shape Academy policies.
Updated Voting Requirements for 2026 Oscars
For the 2026 Oscars, the Academy has implemented stricter voting requirements. Members must now watch all nominated films within a specific category to be eligible to vote in that category's final round. The Academy will track viewing through the Screening Room app, while members who watch films through alternative channels like festivals or private screenings must submit detailed forms documenting their viewing.
This expanded rule builds upon previous requirements used for categories like international feature and animated feature. Additionally, final ballots will now list all designated nominees rather than just film titles, providing greater specificity in the voting process.
Broader Changes and Permanent Shift
The elimination of post-nomination screenings appears to be a permanent change, ending a long tradition of in-person events held in major cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and London. This reflects broader industry trends in how film professionals access and consume content.
Other significant changes for the 2026 Oscars include:
- Final voting opening on February 26 and closing on March 5, 2026
- Nominations following the established shortlist phase
- The ceremony airing live ahead of the March 5 voting deadline
- Introduction of a new Achievement in Casting award category
- Implementation of artificial intelligence guidelines for eligible films
These comprehensive adjustments demonstrate the Academy's ongoing efforts to modernize its processes while responding to changing member behaviors and technological advancements in the film industry.
