The Oscars Ban AI-Generated Performances and Screenplays from Awards Eligibility
Key Takeaways
- ▸The Academy explicitly requires acting performances to be performed by humans and screenplays to be human-authored, effectively banning AI-generated content from these award categories
- ▸The policy was prompted by recent controversies around AI-generated performers and performances entering major film productions
- ▸The Academy has not yet addressed AI use in other Oscar categories like visual effects, costume design, or music, leaving those areas open for future regulation
Summary
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced new eligibility rules that explicitly prohibit AI-generated acting performances and screenplays from winning in their respective categories. Acting roles must be 'demonstrably performed by humans with their consent,' and screenplays must be 'human-authored.' The policy was prompted by recent high-profile use of generative AI in entertainment, including AI-generated performers like Tilly Norwood and an upcoming film using AI-generated performance of deceased actor Val Kilmer. While the Academy cannot prevent productions from incorporating AI technology, the new rules ensure such work will not be rewarded in these major categories. The Academy has not yet established rules for AI use in other categories such as visual effects, costume design, or music composition.
- The Academy can't prevent productions from using AI, but the new rules prevent them from being rewarded, shifting the burden of ethical choice to studios
