The Oscars’ proposed “Popular” category has proved not so popular anymore.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced last month that it would be introducing a new category to the 2019 Academy Awards, entitled “Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film.”
The introduction sparked criticism from many within the industry, including Code Black actor, Rob Lowe, who signaled it as the death of the film industry:
The film business passed away today with the announcement of the “popular” film Oscar. It had been in poor health for a number of years. It is survived by sequels, tent-poles, and vertical integration.
— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) August 8, 2018
And now, it appears as though the Academy is having second thoughts…
“The Academy recognized that implementing any new award nine months into the year creates challenges for films that have already been released,” AMPAS said in a statement. “There has been a wide range of reactions to the introduction of a new award, and we recognize the need for further discussion with our members.”
One change which will remain, however, is the handing out of some awards during commercial breaks to make the ceremony broadcast shorter.
The 91st annual Academy Awards will be held at the Dolby Theatre on the 24th of February 2019.
