What are the Academy's inclusion standards for Best Picture?
Films must meet two out of four standards: on-screen representation, creative leadership/crew, industry access opportunities, and audience development.
Entertainment / Movies
The 98th Academy Awards sparked heated debates regarding diversity, inclusion, and merit. From Jason Whitlock's claim that Michael B. Jordan's Oscar was a DEI award to Ted Cruz's criticism of recent Best Picture winners, the ceremony ignite...
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences introduced Representation and Inclusion Standards (RAISE) to promote diversity. Films must meet two of four standards to be eligible for Best Picture, including on-screen representation, creative leadership, industry access, and audience development. These standards, fully effective since the 96th Oscars in 2024, have been a subject of controversy.
Jason Whitlock's assertion that Michael B. Jordan's Oscar was a DEI award generated significant backlash. Whitlock argued that Jordan's performance in 'Sinners' was 'mid at best' and that the award was a result of the entertainment industry's diversity push. Conversely, many defended Jordan's performance, citing his dual role in 'Sinners' and his broader body of work. Jamie Foxx, for example, congratulated Jordan and said he deserved two Oscars for the role.
Ted Cruz's criticism of recent Best Picture winners also stirred debate. Cruz claimed that recent winners, excluding 'Oppenheimer', were not widely seen and were made to 'virtue signal to left-wing elites.' He also incorrectly stated that classics like 'The Godfather' would not qualify under today's inclusion standards. This was refuted by many, who pointed out the box office success of films like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' ($143 million on a $25 million budget) and the fact that 'The Godfather' could likely qualify under existing corporate diversity programs.
Films must meet two out of four standards: on-screen representation, creative leadership/crew, industry access opportunities, and audience development.
Whitlock claimed it was a DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) award, not based on merit.
Cruz said that 'nobody saw any of these movies' except 'Oppenheimer' and that classics wouldn't qualify today.
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