Charles EstherThe Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released its first formal stance on the use of generative AI in filmmaking.
This new rule will take effect ahead of the 98th Oscars ceremony scheduled for March 2026.
Why the Rule Was Introduced
This decision follows a divisive 2024 awards season.
Two films in particular, The Brutalist and Emilia Perez, drew criticism for their use of AI to enhance actor performances and produce artistic visuals.
To address this growing concern, the Academy’s Science and Technology Council recommended a guideline that maintains neutrality.
What the Rule Says
The rule clarifies that AI will neither improve nor diminish a film’s chances at Oscar nominations.
Instead, achievements will be evaluated based on the human element involved in the creative process.
Here’s the official wording:
“With regard to Generative Artificial Intelligence and other digital tools used in the making of the film, the tools neither help nor harm the chances of achieving a nomination.
The Academy and each branch will judge the achievement, taking into account the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship when choosing which movie to award.”
Additional Oscar Rule Changes for 2026
Alongside the AI policy, the Academy has also introduced three significant changes:
- Members must now watch all nominated films in a category to vote in the final round.
- The new Achievement in Casting award will be selected from ten nominees.
- Films submitted by countries can be made by individuals with citizenship, residency, or refugee/asylum status.
AI in Film – A Double-Edged Sword
While the Academy’s rule attempts to remain balanced, critics argue that it fails to address Hollywood’s evolving relationship with technology.
The industry has a long-standing tradition of embracing innovation—from practical effects to digital animation.
AI is simply the next frontier.
However, the backlash is real.
In 2023, Late Night with the Devil was criticised for using AI to create a few still images, despite being one of the year’s top horror films.
It received zero Oscar nominations—perhaps no surprise given the genre’s track record, but the AI use didn’t help.
On the other hand, The Brutalist, a historical drama, received 10 nominations.
Its heavy reliance on AI, particularly in editing actor Adrien Brody’s accent, caused a stir.
Still, Brody won Best Actor, suggesting that the performance—even AI-aided—was well received.
The Slippery Slope of Enhancement
The use of AI to polish performances raises uncomfortable questions.
If a Hungarian accent is essential, should casting not favour native speakers over software solutions?
Wouldn’t the raw authenticity of a committed actor be more valued than digitally perfected accuracy?
This debate echoes larger industry fears.
The 2023 Writers Strike brought AI to the centre of labour disputes, with many fearing job displacement.
A Missed Opportunity or a Necessary Middle Ground?
While some hoped the Academy would outright ban AI, such a decision may be unrealistic.
The current rule tries to walk a fine line—welcoming innovation while preserving human creativity.
But critics argue it’s vague and lacks enforceability.
Moving forward, more films may choose to clearly label themselves as “AI-free” to gain public trust—like Heretic, which proudly included such a disclaimer.
Conclusion
The Academy may have taken a diplomatic step, but the conversation around AI in film is far from over.
As technology continues to shape the creative arts, expect further updates, more controversies, and perhaps, new Oscar categories built around the tools of the future.
