Oscars says AI actors and writing cannot win awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has updated its Oscar eligibility rules to specify that only acting "demonstrably performed by humans" and writing "must be human-authored" can qualify for awards. This marks a significant change in response to the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in film production. While AI-generated content cannot win acting or writing Oscars, the Academy clarified that AI use in other aspects of filmmaking will neither advantage nor disadvantage a film’s chances of nomination. The new rules come amid increasing instances of AI technology being used to replicate or replace human performances and creative work. Notably, the late actor Val Kilmer is set to be digitally recreated using AI for a leading role in an upcoming film. Additionally, a London-based actor and comedian created a fully AI-generated virtual actor who gained attention as a potential global star. The updated guidelines reflect concerns raised by Hollywood writers’ unions, which have previously protested the use of AI in scriptwriting, citing threats to creative jobs and copyright issues. Despite these restrictions on acting and writing, the Academy did not impose a blanket ban on AI tools in filmmaking. It emphasized that the human element remains central to judging creative authorship and that branches of the Academy will assess the degree of human involvement when selecting nominees and winners. The Academy also reserved the right to request further information about the use of generative AI if questions arise during the evaluation process. This development highlights ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry as AI technologies advance rapidly. While computer-generated imagery (CGI) has long been a staple of film production, AI’s ability to automate creative tasks through simple prompts presents new challenges for defining artistic contribution and protecting human creators’ rights. The Academy’s updated rules aim to preserve the integrity of the Oscars while acknowledging the evolving role of technology in filmmaking.