Oscars 2021: Films Released On Streaming Platforms To Qualify For Awards

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has evolved in its view on films that did not make theatrical released but streamed online as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown and that they will be considered for awards nominations in the year's ceremony.

This move does not imply that every film on streaming platforms will be qualified as already known that film like Troll World Tour was released on online because of the movement restriction enforced by the lockdown.

However, the move to shortlist films released on streaming or VOD service is only going to be considered for this year's ceremony only if they meet the criteria stated, according to a statement released by the Academy president David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson, which confirmed that the decision was necessary because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in theatre. Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering," said David and Hudson in the statement. "Nonetheless, the historically tragic COVID-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our eligibility rules."

For films streamed to qualify for awards nomination, the Academy gave a set of conditions before a film can be considered for any categories - this simply disqualified films that are basically for the streaming network such as dramas and stuff.

The statement released by the Academy reads, "Until further notice, and for the 93rd Award year only, films that had a previously planned theatrical release but are initially made available on commercial streaming or VOD service may qualify in the Best Picture, general entry and specialty categories for the 93rd Academy Awards under these provisions:

1. The film must be made available on the secure Academy Screening Room member-only streaming site within 60 days of the film's streaming or VOD release;
2. The film must meet all other eligibility requirements.

This made it the first time in the history of Oscars to welcome films released on streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO, and the likes provided the conditions are meant.

 Just like any other industry, the film industry also suffered from the impact of the outbreak of the killer bug, the reason for which James Bond films No Time To Die and Dwayne Johnson's Fast and Furious 9 to change their release dates.