Industry, Nominees React To Decision On Off-Air Awards

Los Angeles: Earlier, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had decided to present eight awards off-air to make the broadcast crisp and streamlined. But, apparently the move has caused outrage among the nominees across eight categories. The original score, make-up and hairstyling, documentary short, film editing, production design, animated short, live action short and sound — will be awarded prior to the start of the upcoming March 27 show, edited for time, and broadcast sporadically throughout the evening, according to Variety.

Before the decision was made public, a Zoom call was convened to lend a personal touch to the news and show respect for their nominees. Present on the call was Shawn Finnie, executive vice president of membership and awards; Christine Simmons, AMPAS chief operating officer; Jennifer Todd, governor of the producers branch; and Academy CEO Dawn Hudson, who joined the call after it began.

A source told 'Variety' that several individuals on the call tried to offer alternative ways to streamline the show but their suggestions weren't considered. They were informed that the decision was final. The source as quoted by 'Variety' said: "To relegate us in this way, it's so disrespectful. It sends a strong message about prioritising branches and specific filmmakers within the Academy."

One notable producer speaking on condition of anonymity, said: "I think there would be other ways where the Academy could still present these awards live and quicken the pace of the show overall. This specific choice feels a bit lacking in creativity."

Meanwhile, the American Cinema Editors were the only guild to publicly decry the decision as they said in a statement accessed by 'Variety', "We are deeply disappointed by the Academy's decision to alter the way certain categories, including film editing, will be presented in the Oscars telecast. It sends a message that some creative disciplines are more vital than others. Nothing could be further from the truth and all who make movies know this." The statement further read, "As a group of artists wholly dedicated to advancing the art and prestige of film editing, we passionately believe that editing — and all other creative disciplines that are part of the collaborative art of filmmaking — should be treated equally. Our contributions to that collaboration may sometimes appear invisible but they are undeniable." 

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