The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recently declared that the utilization of generative artificial intelligence will neither enhance nor diminish a film's chances for Oscar nominations. This announcement comes amidst updates to the established rules during the Oscars' off-season, including the introduction of a new category and mandating voters to watch all nominated films. The statement does not delve deeply into ethical considerations or best practices but emphasizes human creative authorship as the key factor in judging achievements.
In response to the growing influence of AI in filmmaking, particularly highlighted during the 2024-2025 awards season with movies like "The Brutalist" and "Emilia Pérez," the Academy aims to clarify its position. Notably, "The Brutalist" utilized AI to create architectural drawings and refine Hungarian dialogue, while "Emilia Pérez" employed it to enhance singing performances. Despite these innovations, the exact impact of AI on their success at the 97th Academy Awards remains uncertain.
Further exploration reveals that "The Brutalist" was a strong contender for Best Picture, ultimately winning three Oscars: Best Cinematography, Best Score, and Lead Actor, where Adrian Brody triumphed over other notable actors. This suggests that even with AI involvement, human performance remains pivotal. Meanwhile, controversies surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón’s social media overshadowed technical aspects in "Emilia Pérez."
While the Academy does not explicitly ban AI usage, its emphasis on human creativity implies cautious acceptance. Future filmmakers may continue to use AI for technical adjustments but are encouraged to prioritize traditional artistic contributions for core creative elements.
Moving forward, this stance encourages a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving the essence of human artistry in cinema. As the industry evolves, maintaining this equilibrium will be crucial for both artistic integrity and recognition within prestigious award ceremonies such as the Oscars.