Maybe the backlash and pressure got to them but The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is postponing the introduction of the new “popular” Oscar category. The new category was to potentially launch at the 91st Academy Awards on February 24.
Following a meeting of the board of governors on Tuesday, it was decided to shelve the idea for the moment but they will continue to discuss the idea for the new award and “will examine and seek additional input regarding the new category.” It was explained that implementing the new award nine months into the year “created challenges” for films that have already been released. A timeline for when the category would potentially launch was not announced.
Here is a statement from Academy CEO Dawn Hudon about the decision:
“There has been a wide range of reactions to the introduction of a new award, and we recognize the need for further discussion with our members. We have made changes to the Oscars over the years, including this year, and we will continue to evolve while also respecting the incredible legacy of the last 90 years.”
Hoping to fix stalling ratings, The Academy announced the award last month and the visceral reaction to it was immediate. The Academy did not lay out the criteria or voting process that would be used to determine what a “popular” film would be and many in the industry thought it was insulting to popular films that happen to be good and have a legitimate shot at getting a Best Picture nomination. The new award was seen as a way to guarantee that blockbuster movies, like the Marvel, Star Wars and DC Universe movies, as well as surprise hits like Crazy Rich Asians and A Quiet Place, would be assured some airtime on the telecast.
Guess it’s back to the drawing board…
