Streaming-only films are eligible for Oscars 2021 nominations

For the first time in history, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will allow the streaming-only films to be eligible for the Oscar nominations. The Academy made this announcement on Tuesday. It took the decision due to the coronavirus pandemic. This will be for one year only.

In a media statement, The Academy president David Rubin said that The Academy firmly believes there is no greater experience of watching a film in the theatre. But the tragic circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic has forced them to take the decision. However, it will be valid for only one edition. In the past, Netflix films like Roma, Marriage Story, and The Irishman got nominated for Oscars and won a few awards as well. But those films had a theatrical run in select cities. Till now, Oscars didn't accept any streaming-only films. The Oscars 2021 is now scheduled to take place on February 28, 2021. The fate of the show is still unknown. It depends on the intensity of the pandemic and also reopening of the theaters. Currently, many makers are opting for digital releases as the theaters got shut. A few makers have also stated that they will release films simultaneously in theaters and online, once the movie halls reopen. On the whole, the COVID-19 pandemic is bringing some major and serious changes in the film fraternity. Not only award shows, but film festivals like Cannes and Venice Film festivals are getting affected due to the pandemic. Many festival organizers are planning for digital events rather than the physical ones.