LOS ANGELES, Jan 27 (Portal) – Hollywood’s Film Academy on Friday said it was reviewing this year’s campaigns for Oscar nominations, a day after a media report raised questions about British actress Andrea Riseborough’s surprise nod.
On Tuesday, Riseborough was nominated for best actress for the role of an alcoholic single mother in the little-seen film To Leslie, a shock to awards pundits who didn’t expect her to be in the mix.
Media newsletter Puck reported Thursday that the unexpected nomination raised questions about whether an aggressive campaign for Riseborough violated lobbying rules set by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
The academy issued a statement on Friday saying the organization was “conducting a review of campaign procedures surrounding this year’s nominees to ensure no guidelines were violated.” Riseborough did not provide the explanation.
The review is also intended to “inform us on whether policy changes may be needed in a new era of social media and digital communications,” the statement said.
The Academy restricts how studios can reach voters, how often, and what they can say in any communications related to their Oscar campaigns.
Puck reported that the film director’s wife, actress Mary McCormack, and friends “emailed and called tons of members of the Academy’s acting department, asking them to watch the little-seen alcoholic drama and comment online about Riseborough’s searing performance.” Post”.
Dozens of A-list stars “then praised her and helped her win the coveted nomination,” Puck said.
McCormack and Riseborough officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
According to Box Office Mojo, “To Leslie” has grossed $27,000 at the box office since its release in October.
“We have confidence in the integrity of our nomination and voting processes and support genuine grassroots campaigns for excellence,” the Academy’s statement said.
The Academy Awards winners will be announced on March 12th.
Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Edited by Sandra Painter
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