Oscars Rule Changes: Multiple Nominations for Actors and International Film Updates
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences has recently implemented significant rule changes in the acting and International Film categories for the Oscars. In the acting categories, actors can now be nominated for multiple performances in both lead and supporting roles if they rank in the top five votes. This change allows actors like Leonardo DiCaprio to potentially receive nominations for more than one performance in the same category. Additionally, the International Film category now accepts submissions based on winning qualifying awards at international film festivals, in addition to being the official selection of a country or region. The category will now be credited to the film itself rather than the country or region, with the director's name on the statuette plaque. Furthermore, the Academy has clarified that only performances and screenplays "demonstrably performed by humans" are eligible for consideration in the acting and writing categories.
The Academy has also updated submission deadlines and key dates for the 99th Annual Academy Awards. The first submission deadline for various categories is on August 13, 2026, with final submission deadlines for different categories throughout the following months. The campaign promotional regulations for the Oscars have been revised to specify how motion picture companies and individuals associated with eligible films can promote their work to Academy members. These changes are part of the ongoing efforts to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the Oscars process.