Academy CEO Bill Kramer Reveals Plans to Expand International Oscar Qualifying Festivals

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is set to broaden the list of film festivals that can serve as standalone qualifiers for the International Film Oscar category. AMPAS CEO Bill Kramer confirmed the move during an interview with Deadline at the Tokyo Film Festival, where he has become a regular presence. While specific festivals were not named, the expansion aims to make the submission process more accessible for filmmakers worldwide. Kramer’s announcement signals a shift toward inclusivity in the Academy’s awards ecosystem, potentially opening doors for films from underrepresented regions. The International Film category has long relied on a limited set of qualifying events, and this change could reshape how global cinema reaches the Oscars. As the Academy continues to modernize, industry observers will watch closely for the official list of added festivals.