In a bold move that may reshape the future of the Oscars, movie theater owners across the United States and internationally are now lobbying to gain voting rights for the prestigious Academy Awards. Their goal: to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) and have a formal say in deciding who wins Hollywood’s most coveted honors.
This push, led by independent cinema owners and chains alike, comes at a time when the film industry is undergoing massive change. The rise of streaming platforms, evolving viewing habits, and pandemic-related disruptions have significantly altered how audiences consume films. Yet, even amid these shifts, theater owners argue that they remain vital stakeholders in the cinematic ecosystem — ones whose voices deserve to be heard when it comes to honoring the best in film.
The Call for Recognition
Theater owners believe they have long been overlooked in Oscar decision-making despite being a crucial link between filmmakers and the public. While AMPAS includes actors, directors, producers, writers, and other film professionals among its 10,000+ members, there is currently no branch for theater exhibitors. This exclusion, critics argue, creates a disconnect between the Academy and the very people who ensure that movies reach the big screen.
“We are the ones who champion films at the grassroots level,” said Paul Dergarabedian, a veteran box office analyst. “We nurture audiences, drive buzz, and often keep smaller independent films alive. Our role deserves recognition — and a vote.”
Theater owners assert that their deep understanding of audience preferences and trends can offer fresh insights into Oscar voting. For example, sleeper hits like Everything Everywhere All At Once, which earned massive success through word-of-mouth and sustained theatrical runs, exemplify the kind of film that theaters help elevate — sometimes even before awards season buzz kicks in.
A Changing Landscape
This demand also reflects the evolving power dynamics within the entertainment industry. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ have gained significant influence in Oscar races, often investing heavily in campaigns and limited theatrical releases just to meet eligibility. Meanwhile, traditional theater chains continue to face economic pressures due to changing consumer behaviors.
By giving exhibitors a seat at the table, proponents argue, the Academy can strike a better balance between artistic merit and audience engagement — and foster greater diversity of opinion within its ranks.
Moreover, industry insiders say that incorporating theater owners could help AMPAS rebuild trust with audiences who have increasingly criticized the Oscars for being out of touch with the general public. Box office appeal and mainstream success have often been overshadowed by niche, arthouse fare during recent ceremonies, which has led to calls for more inclusive and popular recognition.
Challenges and Resistance
Not everyone within the Academy is on board with the idea. Some members have expressed concern about the potential conflict of interest that could arise from involving exhibitors, particularly when it comes to marketing and box office performance.
“There is a risk that voting could be swayed more by commercial appeal than artistic value,” said an anonymous AMPAS member. “We have to be cautious about maintaining the integrity and purpose of the awards.”
Others question the logistics of creating a new branch or extending voting rights to individuals who may not be directly involved in film production or criticism.
Despite the resistance, there are precedents for such a move. Over the years, the Academy has expanded its membership to include casting directors, public relations professionals, and executives — roles that were once considered peripheral to filmmaking.
A Step Toward Inclusion?
Supporters argue that recognizing theater owners could mark a significant step toward making the Academy more inclusive and reflective of the entire film ecosystem. They emphasize that it is not just about voting rights but about fostering dialogue between creators and exhibitors, ensuring the survival of theatrical experiences, and embracing the full spectrum of cinema culture.
With declining Oscar viewership in recent years, some believe that engaging theater owners might even help revitalize the awards’ relevance among general audiences.
For now, the Academy has yet to issue an official response to the movement. But with growing momentum and public support, the conversation around expanding Oscar voting rights to include exhibitors is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
As one theater chain executive put it, “We’re not just showing the movies — we’re shaping the experience. It’s time our role was recognized.”
