Oscars to go ahead with multiple in-person ceremonies simultaneously
The 93rd Academy Awards is braving all odds of pandemic to retain its stature of the highest global recognition for films. They are doing it with multiple in-person ceremonies. While that is a refreshing news for people getting bored of virtual ceremonies happening out of the obvious fear of community spread, authorities at the Academy are treading cautiously over how this will pan out.
Traditional venue intact; Dolby Theatre is one among the locations
There is no information on the venues chosen for the ceremonies, although Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, the traditional locale, continues to be one among them. The Academy released a statement on Wednesday, declaring that the date stays the same, that is April 25, while the ceremony will be broadcast from multiple locations. The statement also assured to provide further updates on the locations soon.
Oscars determined to stay live 'while prioritizing the public health'
"In this unique year that has asked so much of so many, the Academy is determined to present an Oscars like none other, while prioritizing the public health and safety of all those who will participate," the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences statement read. "The ceremony will broadcast live from multiple locations, including the landmark Dolby Theatre...look forward to sharing more details."
Academy may follow the way Venice film festival was conducted
Authorities may look up to the procedures taken by last year's Venice Film Festival, as it was the only ceremony to be held public amid mounting COVID-19 cases globally, while assuring the mandatory yet limited star presence from afar. Cate Blanchett, the chair of the Venice film jury, had thanked the festival for a relaxing respite from lockdown, while supporting the strict safety measures.
Authorities have already released shortlisted titles for nine categories
Meanwhile, the Academy has released shortlisted titles for nine categories, including original song, visual effects, animated short film, original score, makeup-hairstyling and international feature film. Each of these categories have a minimum of 10 shortlisted titles and a maximum of 15 titles. Now, the race is about to tighten up as the final nominees for each category will be announced on March 15.
