Oscars Adds Popular Film Category, Will Edit Shows to 3 Hours
The Academy Awards are getting some sweeping changes.
The Hollywood Reporter printed a message from the Academy to its members, outlining the new changes approved by the Board of Governors.
It may be good news to hear that the show will be limited to three hours -- some of us could go with even less, considering there's also the red carpet pre-show -- but that means not all wins will be shown live. Certain winners will make their speeches while we're watching commercials, and their speeches will be edited to be sandwiched into the broadcast to fit the three-hour time.
That change is going to disappoint the unlucky (and unfamous) people who've waited their lives to win an Oscar, only to have their thunder somewhat dimmed.
Another change includes the addition of Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film. No further details were shared, but that category will probably air live, and be a nod to massive comic book movies like "Black Panther" -- which just hit another domestic milestone. Might as well just call it the Disney/Marvel category.
Here are the three changes in detail, via THR's letter:
1. A three-hour Oscars telecast
"We are committed to producing an entertaining show in three hours, delivering a more accessible Oscars for our viewers worldwide.
To honor all 24 award categories, we will present select categories live, in the Dolby Theatre, during commercial breaks (categories to be determined). The winning moments will then be edited and aired later in the broadcast."
2. New award category
"We will create a new category for outstanding achievement in popular film. Eligibility requirements and other key details will be forthcoming."
3. Earlier airdate for 92nd Oscars
"The date of the 92nd Oscars telecast will move to Sunday, February 9, 2020, from the previously announced February 23. The date change will not affect awards eligibility dates or the voting process.
The 91st Oscars telecast remains as announced on Sunday, February 24, 2019."
Some Oscar viewers are pushing for other new categories -- like best stunt work (Helen Mirren has advocated for this) and best casting. Maybe next time?
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