22-04-2025
This wasn't a rule?: Internet is shocked as Academy announces new viewing mandate
Following the 2025 Oscars, a new rule has been introduced requiring Academy members to watch all nominated films in a category to be eligible to vote in the final round. The change comes after controversy surrounding the Best Leading Actor category, which was awarded to Adrien decision drew attention when it emerged that some voters believed Ralph Fiennes had already won an Oscar, which he has not. As a result, they chose Brody, not realising he had already won for 'The Pianist'.advertisementFor context, Variety reported in March: "Surprisingly, two separate voters who didn't vote for Fiennes said they did not 'vote for him because he won before."
Actor Patrick Schwarzenegger, who was recently seen in 'The White Lotus' Season Three, also voiced his support and wrote, "Smart. I like that (sic)."The reaction online has been strong. One user on X wrote, "How were they voting before without watching all nominated films (sic)." Another added, "THIS WASNT A RULE BEFOREHAND? (sic)."Another user said, "Not shocked. Based on some of the wins. It was pretty apparent to me. And it's why the overall viewership has gone to s**t. People watch these movies, the voters need to watch the films too. It's pretty clear they don't (sic)."advertisementVariety also pointed out that, "The Academy's voting process is now entirely digital", and that it includes "two-factor authentication - meaning it's pretty hard for someone to 'delegate their ballot to another person.'"All of this has led to concerns about the diligence of Oscar voters, with the implication being: these mistakes are not due to the process but to the voters Watch
