The Oscars has released new rules to ensure filmmakers competing for its prestigious Best Picture awards are more inclusive – including of LGBT+.
The rules will force producers to tell more diverse stories. And it pushes them to hire more LGBT+ people, people of color, women, and people with ‘cognitive or physical disabilities’.
It’s the latest sign the Academy Awards is attempting to change course over inclusivity. Over the years critics have accused the Academy of being white and male dominated.
In particular they point out that only three women have ever had nominations in the Best Director category. The Oscars have never nominated a lesbian, bi or trans director, even the legendary Dorothy Arzner.