Oscars says AI actors and writing cannot win awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has updated its rules to clarify that only acting and writing demonstrably performed and authored by humans are eligible for Oscars. This change marks a significant shift in the Academy’s eligibility criteria amid growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking. While AI can be used in various aspects of film production, the Academy emphasized that performances and scripts created or generated by AI will not qualify for acting or writing awards. The updated guidelines come as AI technology increasingly influences the entertainment industry. Examples include the planned AI recreation of the late actor Val Kilmer for a lead role in an upcoming film and the creation of entirely fictional AI actors, such as one developed by London-based comedian Eline van der Velden. The use of AI in scriptwriting has also been a contentious issue, notably contributing to a Hollywood writers’ strike two years ago. The Academy’s new rules aim to preserve the recognition of human creativity and authorship in these core artistic categories. Despite the restrictions on acting and writing, the Academy did not impose a blanket ban on AI use in filmmaking. AI tools may still be employed in other areas of production, such as visual effects or editing, without affecting a film’s eligibility for awards. The Academy stated that it will evaluate the extent of human involvement in creative authorship when considering nominations and reserves the right to request additional information about AI use if questions arise. This approach reflects a nuanced stance that acknowledges the evolving role of technology while maintaining the primacy of human artistry in the Oscars. The decision highlights ongoing tensions in Hollywood over AI’s impact on creative labor and intellectual property. It also underscores the challenges faced by the industry in balancing innovation with protecting the contributions of human artists. As AI continues to advance, the Academy’s rules may serve as a precedent for how other creative institutions address the integration of artificial intelligence in artistic fields.