The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences made several announcements on Monday regarding the 97th Academy Awards, including changes to eligibility criteria for certain categories.
Notably, films submitted for the International Feature Film category may now also be submitted for consideration in the Animated Feature Film category, provided they meet the eligibility requirements for both categories.
The new eligibility period for the International Feature Film category’s initial theatrical screening now spans from November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
Additionally, the awards are expanding the list of qualifying cities in the United States. Films must have at least a one-week theatrical run in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, in addition to existing qualifying cities such as Los Angeles County, the City of New York, the Bay Area, Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta.
The requirements for the Best Picture category have also been extended, now mandating a seven-day theatrical run in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days after the film’s initial release. Non-U.S. territories can count as two of the 10 required markets, provided they include the top 15 international theatrical markets along with the film’s home territory.
Films with a late initial theatrical run, followed by an expanded seven-day theatrical run after January 10, 2025, must submit release plans for verification by the Academy, with the run completed no later than January 24, 2025.
These rule changes are part of broader revisions for the 97th Academy Awards, impacting various award categories.
