813: The Oscars | Skeptical Sunday

Membership

The process of becoming a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is shrouded in mystery. Andrew Gold explains that the Academy consists of around 10,000 members who vote for nominees within their respective branches, such as actors nominating actors 1. However, the criteria for membership remain unclear, and Jordan Harbinger shares his experience of receiving DVDs meant for Academy members due to previous tenants being actors 2. Andrew humorously notes his failed attempt to join the Academy, highlighting the opaque nature of the selection process 2.

You can apparently apply to be a member. But I think that really they go about choosing how and when they want to expand their membership.

--- Andrew Gold

The lack of transparency in membership criteria raises questions about the diversity and inclusivity of the Academy.

   

Subjectivity

The Oscars voting process is inherently subjective, leading to debates about its fairness. Andrew Gold and Jordan Harbinger discuss how the voting system is not straightforward, with nominations often predetermined by the time they are announced 1. Andrew critiques the selection of winners, noting that some films chosen do not align with the Oscars' glamorous image, and questions the exclusion of popular films like "The Dark Knight" 3.

The choice of winners doesn't chime with the glamorous branding around the Oscars.

--- Andrew Gold

This subjectivity, coupled with the lengthy ceremony, contributes to declining viewership as audiences seek more engaging content.