The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released updated guidelines for the upcoming Oscars, introducing stricter rules to limit the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. Under the new regulations, only roles that are “demonstrably performed by humans with their consent” will be considered for acting awards. Similarly, screenplays must be “human-authored” to qualify in writing categories.
AI Performances Excluded
This decision effectively disqualifies Val Kilmer’s posthumous AI-generated performance in the forthcoming film As Deep as the Grave, directed by Coerte Voorhees. The move follows growing concerns from prominent actors about AI’s impact on the industry. In February, Matthew McConaughey speculated about the possibility of AI winning Oscars, questioning whether a separate category for AI might emerge in the future.
Industry Reactions
James Cameron, director of Avatar, previously criticized generative AI, stating that creating performances from scratch using text prompts is “horrifying” and fundamentally different from performance capture technology.
Additional Rule Changes
The Academy also announced several other modifications for the next awards cycle. Actors may now be nominated for multiple performances in the same category if all rank among the top five votes. For instance, Paul Mescal could have been nominated last year for both The History of Sound and Hamnet under this rule.
Furthermore, the eligibility criteria for Best International Film have been expanded. Films winning top prizes at major festivals—including Berlin, Busan, Cannes, Sundance, Toronto, and Venice—will automatically qualify. The award will now be credited to the film and its director rather than the nominating country.
These changes will take effect at the 99th Academy Awards, scheduled for Sunday, March 14, 2027.
