Academy announces key dates and new rules for the 2026 Oscars
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released the schedule for the 2026 Oscars and introduced several updates, including mandatory viewing of all nominees and a new category for casting.
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The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has approved the rules and schedule for the 98th Oscars ceremony, which will take place on March 15, 2026. This information was announced by the official press center of the Academy.
For the first time, a new award will recognize achievements in casting — nominees will be selected through a special screening and discussion process.
Final voting will now require mandatory viewing of all films in each category. Submission deadlines have been clarified — for example, soundtracks and songs must be registered by October and November 2025.
The Academy also stated that generative AI will not affect a film's eligibility — the focus remains on the degree of human creativity involved.
Rules for international films have been clarified, including participation by directors with refugee status. The campaign code has also been updated — any public attacks on competitors are prohibited.
Earlier, it was reported that the documentary "20 Days in Mariupol" became the first Ukrainian film to win an Oscar, while "Oppenheimer" dominated the ceremony with seven awards, including Best Picture.
It was also reported that Paramount unveiled the trailer for the eighth "Mission: Impossible" film, hinting at the conclusion of Ethan Hunt's story and showcasing numerous references to earlier entries in the franchise.