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Steven Spielberg Reportedly Wants Netflix Films To Be Disqualified From Oscars


Credit: Netflix

Steven Spielberg certainly is out for Netflix. The E.T. director is reportedly planning to discuss some issues with the Academy regarding the inclusion of independent films released on the streaming service. Simply put, Spielberg may be aiming to disqualify Netflix movies from the next Oscars.

Spielberg has been vocal about his thoughts about Netflix films, deeming them ineligible for the Oscars. The recent success of Roma, which earned three Oscars including Best Director for Alfonso Cuarón, may have convinced Spielberg that he needs to take action. According to Indiewire, the Indiana Jones director will be meeting with the Academy Boards of Governors where he could ask his colleagues to reconsider the rules.

"Steven feels strongly about the difference between the streaming and theatrical situation," an Amblin spokesperson said. "He'll be happy if the others will join [his campaign] when that comes up [at the meeting]. He will see what happens."

The Academy has not addressed Spielberg's plans. "Awards rules discussions are ongoing with the branches. And the Board will likely consider the topic at the April meeting," a spokesperson said in a statement.

Netflix is turning out to be the new preferred option for filmmakers in hopes of releasing their work. However, it isn't just the independent directors who are choosing to work with the streaming service. Cuarón is certainly proof of that and legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese himself will soon release a Netflix movie called The Irishman.

Roma won three major awards at the 91st Academy Awards including Best Director, Best Foreign Language Film, and Best Cinematography.

Related: Netflix is Adapting Kristin Hannah's Firefly Lane

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