After reviewing the awards campaign for the independent drama “To Leslie,” the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Tuesday that Andrea Riseborough’s nomination for best actress will not be revoked.
The star-studded grassroots campaign for Riseborough elicited mistrust from some academy voters and stirred up controversy in Hollywood. The academy declared on Friday that it would investigate whether any regulations were broken. Shortly before nominations, a number of A-listers organized screenings of “To Leslie” and supported Riseborough on social media, propelling her into contention.
Following requests from “To Leslie” director Michael Morris and his wife, Mary McCormack, Kate Winslet, Charlize Theron, Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Amy Adams, and Courteney Cox attended screenings of the film. Riseborough, a well-respected British performer, was suddenly catapulted into the best-actress contest despite “To Leslie’s” very small audience (about $27,000 in ticket receipts).
Bill Kramer, the academy’s chief executive, said in a statement, “The Academy has determined that the activity in question does not warrant revoking the film’s nomination.” “However, we did find social media and outreach campaign strategies that were cause for worry. These techniques are being addressed immediately with the parties responsible.”
The academy has revoked nominations for previous violations of campaigning standards. Oscar season is characterized by screenings sponsored by celebrities, but how voters are approached during the voting period is restricted. Tuesday, the academy stated that Riseborough’s unconventional campaign may demand revisions to the governing documents.
“As a result of this analysis, it is clear that certain elements of the regulations need to be clarified in order to create a better framework for respectful, inclusive, and impartial campaigning,” stated Kramer. “These modifications will be implemented following this awards cycle, and our membership will be informed. The academy seeks to create an environment in which votes are exclusively based on the creative and technical merits of eligible films and achievements.”
The film was hosted by Mary McCormack, Kate Winslet, Charlize Theron, Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Amy Adams, and Courteney Cox.
Critics of Riseborough’s campaign stated that it demonstrated how an extensive Rolodex may offer a potential candidate an advantage.
Viola Davis (“Woman King”) and Danielle Deadwyler (“Till”) were notable omissions from best actress contention.
In addition to Riseborough, the nominees include Cate Blachett (“Tár”), Michelle Williams (“The Fabelmans”), Ana de Armas (“Blonde”), and Michelle Yeoh (“Everything, Everywhere, Everywhen”)
»Andrea Riseborough’s Oscar nomination will remain intact following Academy review«