Academy Awards Inclusion Standards: Complicated Idea, Easy Practice

 

            With Parasite essentially sweeping the Oscars (as it rightfully should), The Academy Awards established a set of standards that are to be met in order to not only qualify for the Academy Award for “Best Picture”, but to also contribute in reinforcing diversity. Some veteran artists might view the standards may complain; saying things like “Art is dead” or any other sort of phases that may express their frustrations towards how limiting these standards might feel. My take on this? The structure of the actual standards themselves might feel limiting, but when it comes to putting them to practice, it is not that hard. It is essential, even.

            When viewing the actual inclusion standards there is a pattern of words that are conveyed when it comes to the listing of “underrepresented groups” or “underrepresented racial or ethnic group”.  As of now, this is to be implemented in about five years. This can be construed towards the idea of the time it will most likely take for the film industry to adapt to such a standard if they do intend on qualifying for that award. This will make way for future film companies and artists alike to have more opportunities, for it is a given that the next generation will grow up to the future values and norms adapted within their society. This inclusion standard will pave way towards that goal.

            As for the idea of necessity, yes, it should in fact be taken as such. There will always be tropes that will be outgrown or be viewed as obsolete within the public, so it is best to adapt one’s point of view towards the idea of inclusion. The critical acclaim from Parasite is a testament to how movies can break language barriers and form a community that is accepting of all differences and harmonizing each other’s culture.

            The hardest part of this change is the change itself. In other words, not just a change in policy, but a change in perspective, a swapping of powers, a sacrifice of one’s own benefits to cater to the ones who are inferior. All in the name of inclusivity. Societal norms are getting changed for the better or worse every generation, so there comes a time when the current societal generation peaks within their time, and makes way for the next generation that can approach these norms and policies with no issue.

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