Joel Edgerton Responds to James Cameron’s Criticism of Netflix’s Oscar Eligibility
At the Gotham Awards on Monday night, Joel Edgerton addressed James Cameron’s recent remarks criticizing Netflix’s eligibility for Oscars. Cameron argued that films without a substantial theatrical run should not compete at the Academy Awards.
Edgerton disagreed, emphasizing inclusivity. He stated, “None of us should be squabbling with each other over what has a right to be seen or awarded or part of a conversation — because there are some people that only get their chance because of streamers.”
Cameron’s stance, voiced on the podcast The Town, was clear. He called Netflix’s awards tactics “fundamentally rotten at the core,” insisting a film must screen for at least a month in 2,000 theaters to qualify. He believes, “The Academy Awards to me mean nothing if they don’t mean theatrical.”
Netflix has reshaped awards seasons since 2019 with Roma, earning ten best picture nominations but no wins. All their contenders met eligibility by limited theatrical runs in major markets. However, none received the traditional wide release typical of theatrical films.
The Academy recently updated its rules for 2025. Best picture hopefuls must now complete a one-week qualifying run plus a seven-day expansion in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days. Edgerton and others warn this could hurt smaller-budget films struggling to fund extensive theatrical runs.
Edgerton balanced his critique of Cameron’s position, acknowledging the importance of cinema’s survival. He said, “James is one of the greats… He’s making movies on a big canvas. He’s always been a pioneer.” Yet, Edgerton argued streaming remains a vital platform for many filmmakers without theatrical access.
Other industry voices express divided views. Stellan Skarsgård supports Cameron, stating, “That’s the only way to make the theater survive… And without cinema, you don’t have any Netflix.” Meanwhile, director Park Chan-Wook highlights the rise of high-quality streaming films, saying this new reality cannot be ignored.
A recent AP-NORC survey supports the shifting habits. About 75% of U.S. adults watched a new movie on streaming instead of theaters last year, with nearly a third doing so monthly.
Edgerton concluded with a personal reflection, “Most of my favorite movies were made in the 70s… I didn’t get a chance to watch them until I was watching on a VHS cassette… And they’re still my favorite films.” He affirmed his support for cinema’s legacy but remains pragmatic about evolving viewing trends.
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