Daijiworld Media Network - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, May 2: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced key rule changes across categories, retaining the emphasis on human authorship while allowing the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking.

A major shift has been introduced in the Best International Feature Film category, with eligibility now extended to films that win top honours at leading global festivals such as Cannes Film Festival, Venice Film Festival, Berlin International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, Busan International Film Festival, and Sundance Film Festival.

Under the revised framework, films no longer depend solely on national submissions to qualify for the Academy Awards. Recognition at major festivals can now independently secure eligibility, marking a departure from the earlier system where countries could send only one official entry.

The change is expected to have significant implications for India, where the selection process by the Film Federation of India has often been debated. In 2024, Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light, which won the Grand Prix at Cannes, was widely seen as a strong contender but was not chosen as India’s official entry. Instead, Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies was submitted, but it failed to make the shortlist.

Under the new rules, Kapadia’s film would have gained eligibility through its festival success, bypassing the need for national nomination.

Similar controversies have arisen in the past. In 2013, Ritesh Batra’s The Lunchbox, which earned international acclaim and awards at Cannes, was overlooked in favour of The Good Road, drawing criticism from filmmakers including Anurag Kashyap.

Over the years, selections such as Gully Boy, Eklavya: The Royal Guard, and Barfi have also sparked debate, with none advancing to the final nominations.

Despite such challenges, India has achieved notable success at the Oscars. The song “Naatu Naatu” from RRR won Best Original Song, while The Elephant Whisperers secured Best Documentary Short Film. Legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray received an honorary Oscar, and Bhanu Athaiya became the first Indian to win an Academy Award for her work in “Gandhi.”

Historically, only a few Indian films — including Mother India, Lagaan, and Salaam Bombay — have secured nominations in the Best International Feature Film category.

The revised rules are expected to open new pathways for globally acclaimed Indian films, potentially improving their prospects at the Oscars.