After much backlash, the Oscars are officially postponing that whole “Popular Film” award
On August 8th, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that the 2019 Academy Awards would have a new “popular film” category in addition to the traditional “Best Picture” award. But it seems that the idea was less than popular, because today, September 6th, the Academy announced that it’s “postponing” the category.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Academy has said that it will not present an award for best popular film at the 2019 Oscars, but instead “will examine and seek additional input regarding the new category.” The Academy reportedly reached this decision after a meeting with board members. So while we can’t count on the category at the 2019 Oscars, there’s a chance we will see it presented at future ceremonies.
In a news release posted to the Oscars website, Academy CEO Dawn Hudson admitted that there were mixed feelings about the addition.
"There has been a wide range of reactions to the introduction of a new award, and we recognize the need for further discussion with our members, Hudson said in the release. “We have made changes to the Oscars over the years—including this year—and we will continue to evolve while also respecting the incredible legacy of the last 90 years."
https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/1037765936491593728
As The New York Times pointed out, when the Academy announced the new “popular films” category, it didn’t specify which movies would be considered “popular” or if they could also be nominated for Best Picture. Consequently, the August announcement left many mystified. Some worried that high-quality blockbusters, like Black Panther would win the “popular film” award as a consolation prize. Because of this, many Twitter users are relieved to see the category get delayed. false false
This just in: The stupidest thing the Academy has done recently, shoved into a hole where everyone will hopefully agree never to speak of it again:https://t.co/1aqWizMaWL
— John Scalzi (@scalzi) September 6, 2018
The Academy also announced that between six and eight awards would be presented during commercial breaks and aired later in an attempt to keep the ceremony shorter. false
It looks like we’ll just have to wait and see if “Best Popular Film” becomes a reality. What are your thoughts on the controversial new category?
