OREANDA-NEWS. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has presented a list of criteria that must be met in order to receive an Oscar Award for the Best Picture. The Academy’s statement explains that the new standards should “encourage equitable representation on and off screen in order to better reflect the diversity of the movie-going audience.”

Among the criteria are the following: the lead or significant supporting role should be played by at least one Asian, black, Hispanic, etc.; at least 30 % of minor actors should be women, representatives of a racial or ethnic group, LGBT people, or people with disabilities; the main storyline or theme of the film should focus on these groups; at least two creative leadership positions should be held by representatives of minorities. Besides, other requirements of similar nature were established.

The criteria are grouped into four standards connected to film theme and casting, film leadership, industry access and opportunities, and marketing, publicity and distribution. The film must meet at least two of the four standards to be nominated.

The new rules will take effect from 2024.