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Awards
New Golden Rules: Oscars Changes for 2025
Ahead of the 97th Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has implemented several rule changes. These include extending the theatrical run requirement for Best Picture eligibility and accepting non-U.S. territory releases for two of the 10 qualifying markets. Other alterations affect categories like Animated Feature, International Feature Film, Original Score, and Writing.
Industry
Diversifying Postproduction: New Industry Talent Accelerator Launches
Jennifer Sofio Hall, managing director of MakeMake Entertainment, and impact producer Bedonna Smith have launched Industry Standard, a talent accelerator for early- to mid-career postproduction professionals. This nine-month paid program aims to tackle visibility and accessibility challenges in the industry by connecting talent with opportunities.
Film Festival
New Festival Makes a Splash: Ho Chi Minh Film Festival Completes First Edition
The Ho Chi Minh Film Festival (HIFF) aims to become Southeast Asia's largest film celebration. Its successful inaugural edition showcased over 100 movies, drawing over 280,000 visitors, including international guests. Despite challenges like venue limitations and censorship, HIFF received positive feedback from industry professionals, signaling Vietnam's potential as a key player in the regional entertainment scene.
DEI
API Representation: New Report Looks at Authenticity
A new study by McKinsey & Co. and nonprofit Gold House reveals significant gains in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) representation in entertainment. However, most API consumers perceive this representation as lacking authenticity. The report highlights that authentic API representation could boost industry revenues by $2 to $4.4 billion, with half of API consumers willing to spend more on films and TV shows that accurately reflect their experiences.
International
Unions, Government, and AI: U.K. Industry Professionals Call for Protections
PACT and Equity, the U.K.'s producer trade body and actors' union, are calling on the government to re-engage in the AI debate and propose new legislation to safeguard the industry. They argue that such legislation is crucial to guarantee transparency, consent, and fair remuneration in the entertainment sector's use of AI.
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