Oscars 2021 shock: Academy Awards announce MAJOR historic change due to pandemic

If anything the move seems reluctant and purely due to the pandemic considering it only counts for the 2021 Oscars.

After the pandemic, all entries will have to have had a cinematic release.

After all, the statement continued: “On a date to be determined by the Academy, and when theatres reopen in accordance with federal, state and local specified guidelines and criteria, this rules exemption will no longer apply. 

“All films released thereafter will be expected to comply with the standard Academy theatrical qualifying requirements.”