When lockdown began, cinemas around the world began shutting down indefinitely. Hollywood studios took tough decisions in delaying upcoming releases to later in 2020 or even next year. Much is still up in the air over when cinemas will reopen and now it looks likely the 2021 Oscars will be affected too.

According to Variety, multiple sources claim the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences are considering postponing the Oscars.

The 93rd Academy Awards are set to take place in Hollywood on February 28, 2021.

This would follow the usual few months of Oscars contender movie releasing in cinemas.

However, one source said of the 2021 Academy Awards: “It’s likely they’ll be postponed.”

READ MORE: Oscars 2021 shock: Academy Awards announce MAJOR historic change

For the first time in history, the Oscars will allow streaming movies that have not had a cinematic release to qualify for entry in the Best Picture categories and others.

A statement on the Academy Awards website read: “Until further notice, and for the 93rd Awards year only, films that had a previously planned theatrical release but are initially made available on a commercial streaming or VOD service may qualify in the Best Picture, general entry and speciality categories for the 93rd Academy Awards under these provisions:

“The film must be made available on the secure Academy Screening Room member-only streaming site within 60 days of the film’s streaming or VOD release [and] The film must meet all other eligibility requirements.”

However, the move is purely circumstantial, with the rules reverting back when the world is out of the pandemic.

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The statement continued: “On a date to be determined by the Academy, and when theatres reopen in accordance with federal, state and local specified guidelines and criteria, this rules exemption will no longer apply. 

“All films released thereafter will be expected to comply with the standard Academy theatrical qualifying requirements.”

Academy CEO Dawn Hudson said: “The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theatre. 

“Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering.”

She added: “Nonetheless, the historically tragic COVID-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our awards eligibility rules. 

“The Academy supports our members and colleagues during this time of uncertainty.

“We recognise the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate movies more than ever.”

Perhaps a Netflix movie will finally win Best Picture?