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The Oscar Awards will accept digital platform movies 0:38
(CNN) - The Oscars are making what is described as a unique concession by allowing films initially available through digital platforms to compete in the Best Film category at the 2021 Awards.
As a reason for the change, the Academy cited the closing of theaters as a consequence of the covid-19 pandemic, but clarified that only those films that had had a "previously planned theatrical release" would be eligible.
- The Oscar Awards had the lowest audience in the history of the ceremony
Previously, films had to have been on theaters for at least a week in order to be considered candidates for the golden statuette.
The decision of the board of directors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awards also made other changes in the award process, among which it stands out to integrate in one category those of editing sound and sound mixing.
Through a statement, Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson emphasized that the organization's commitment to the movie theater experience is "consistent and unwavering."
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The Academy has faced pressure to be more flexible with its rules as internet content services like Netflix push for their productions to be considered for awards.
Director Steven Spielberg, among other high-profile members, is inclined to maintain the distinction between digital platform premieres and film premieres.
The date for the 93rd edition of the Oscars is set for February 28 of next year, although the Academy recognized that additional changes could occur "based on national guidelines, government orders required by the State and best practices determined by The academy".
Following the low audience levels at the Oscars this year, the board approved that all members be able to vote in the international feature film category, previously known as the Best Foreign Language Film.
The Academy also announced that the current award season will be the last in which studios can distribute DVD projectors to voters, citing environmental concerns, so the distribution will be in a digital version in 2021.
Oscar awards