Academy Decides AI Performances Not Eligible for Oscars

The Oscars have some new rules in place, and they’re making some big changes to the way AI is involved. As of May 1, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has decided that AI performances won’t be up for consideration for an Oscar. That means no golden statuettes for robots, sorry Tilly Norwood! However, filmmakers are still allowed to use AI tools in their work, but when it comes to the Oscars, only real human actors and human-written screenplays will be in the running for those top honors.

This decision follows agreements made during the 2023 Writers’ Guild of America (WGA) and SAG-AFTRA strikes, reflecting the growing concerns surrounding generative AI tools in artistic industries.

For instance, the trailer for a new film called “As Deep as the Grave” caused quite a stir because it features an entirely AI-generated version of the late Val Kilmer. Fans had mixed reactions to seeing his digital likeness on screen. Before his passing, Kilmer had worked with UK tech company Sonantic to create an AI version of his speaking voice. Other celebrities like Matthew McConaughey and Michael Caine have also dabbled in AI, partnering with ElevenLabs to clone their voices. On the flip side, singer Taylor Swift has taken a stand against unauthorized deepfakes by trademarking her voice and image, including the phrase “Hey, it’s Taylor,” amidst a proliferation of AI-generated likenesses used in scams online.

In addition to the AI rules, the Academy made changes to the international film and acting categories. Now, countries can have multiple entries nominated for Best International Film, rather than being limited to just one. Similarly, actors can now receive multiple nominations in the same category if they have more than one standout performance. These updates are creating quite a buzz online, especially after some intense Oscar campaign races in recent years. The Oscars just keep getting more interesting!