The Oscar will become stricter and fairer in 2026. The award has approved new rules

One technical detail — and the familiar ceremony will never be the same.

The American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced several innovations for the 98th Oscars ceremony. According to the Hollywood Reporter, it is scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026.

Under the new rules starting next year, jury members must watch all nominated films before voting. Previously, the awards administration relied solely on their integrity.

The publication notes that the Oscars will implement an electronic voting system, which will grant access to ballots only after confirming that all nominated films have been watched.
A man in a jacket and glasses with an Oscar statuette in his hands studies the voting list for the film
The Oscars will more strictly monitor voters
Tracking will be done through a special app called Academy Screening Room. Participants who have watched films at festivals or other venues will need to fill out a special form indicating the time and place of viewing.

In other words, voters will be required to provide a full report on the films they have watched.

Does this mean that the fate of the world's most prestigious film award used to depend on the personal tastes and preferences of the voters? There's no guarantee they didn't just vote for their favorites. Now I doubt the Academy's authority even more. Earlier, we at zoomboola.com reported that by the 100th Oscars ceremony, a new nomination will be created. To find out who it will be dedicated to, read our material.