Oscars to Add New Category in 2019
Even the Academy can agree that it’s time for a change.
To have seen the Oscars or to have learned the winners through the years is to know that the awards are almost exclusively bestowed upon dramas, leaving films of other genres like action, comedy, and sci-fi to the wayside–often only to win awards in the Visual Effects or Makeup and Hairstyling categories (if any).
Movie-lovers everywhere have routinely been disappointed by the lack of inclusivity that the awards show, and have long hoped to see the day that the Academy would adapt. On Wednesday, August 8th, that day came at last.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that an “Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film” category would be added to the 2019 awards show. This is a historic development, especially given that the last new category of Animated Feature was added a whopping 18 years ago, back in 2001.
Change is coming to the #Oscars. Here’s what you need to know:
– A new category is being designed around achievement in popular film.
– We’ve set an earlier airdate for 2020: mark your calendars for February 9.
– We’re planning a more globally accessible, three-hour telecast. pic.twitter.com/oKTwjV1Qv9— The Academy (@TheAcademy) August 8, 2018
“We have heard from many of you about improvements needed to keep the Oscars and our Academy relevant in a changing world,” Academy President John Bailey and CEO Dawn Hudson informed members in a letter, “The Board of Governors took this charge seriously. We are excited about these steps, and look forward to sharing more details with you.”
