A new rule will be in place for the 2026 season, which was enacted in April of 2025. The rule states that all final voters must watch all of the movies in a category before casting a vote. 

This will be the first year this rule is in effect, and with the upcoming Academy Awards, commonly referred to as the Oscars; the new rule is shocking the public due to a variety of aspects. Some think this rule was already in play and others are questioning past award winners.

The voters are all accomplished film industry leaders and artists. In order to make sure everyone has watched the nominated movies, there is an Academy Program that has digital screening rooms to track what movies are being watched by the voters. If voters saw one of the movies at a theater or festival, they have to submit an online form that confirms the viewing through an honor system.

Watching all of the movies in a category in order to vote applies to all awards. There are 24 categories this year, including a one new one for casting. There will be another category being added in 2028: Achievement in Stunt Design.

Another rule that is relatively new is that AI will not affect a movie’s chances of winning a category. The movies do not have to state that they are using AI.

Some of Del Val’s staff have shared their opinions on the new rule.

“The Oscars is very subjective and I don’t think that will change,” Del Val Director of Curriculum Tara Civitillo said.

Michael Fortino, Del Val Film and Literature teacher, shared his opinions on this new rule as well.

“I am ashamed that I assumed this was always a rule,” Fortino said.

This year the Oscars will be held on March 15 at 7 p.m. Read a list of the categories and requirements for each one here.