In another blow to the big-screen experience, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is ending the practice of hosting screenings for Oscar-nominated films, it was reported Monday.
The announcement was first made in the Academy Bulletin that was emailed to members last month, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The trade publication said the move was prompted by dwindling attendance at the screenings, but is being criticized nonetheless.
Attendance at the in-person screenings has dropped since the Academy unveiled a members-only streaming service seven years ago, allowing members to watch the nominated films at home.
“Moving forward, as turnout for our post-nomination screenings has been incredibly small over the last few years (an average of five members attended these screenings in the last two years), we will not rescreen these films,” the Academy announcement said, according to THR. “Please note that, in addition to FYC screening opportunities, all nominated films are available for members to watch on the Academy Screening Room.”
THR said some Academy members feel it’s inappropriate that an organization dedicated to the big screen will now require members to catch up with films they missed during the pre-nominations period on the small screen before voting, saying films that rely on sweeping visual content such as “Frankenstein” or “Avatar: Fire and Ash” can’t be fully appreciated on a television screen.