James Cameron Says Netflix Films Shouldn't Qualify for Oscars

James Cameron has sparked renewed debate over streaming and cinema by saying that Netflix-produced films should not qualify for the Academy Awards unless they commit to proper theatrical releases.

The 'Avatar' director shared his views during an appearance on the podcast 'The Town with Matthew Belloni,' ahead of the release of his upcoming film 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' Cameron expressed concern over reports that Netflix is interested in acquiring Warner Bros., saying he believes the studio would be better off under Paramount's leadership. In his view, Netflix acquiring such a major traditional studio could be damaging to the theatrical movie business.

Image Courtesy: People

James Cameron's Thoughts on Theatrical Cinema

Cameron also referenced Netflix's previous position on movie theatres, noting that the company's leadership has suggested that theatrical cinema is no longer essential. While Netflix has recently promised that Warner Bros. films would still be released in cinemas if the acquisition happens, Cameron remains sceptical. He believes that short, limited theatrical runs simply to meet Oscar eligibility rules undermine the spirit of what the awards are supposed to represent.

According to him, films should be created primarily for full theatrical experiences, not designed mainly for streaming platforms. He argues that the Academy Awards lose their meaning if they no longer prioritise movies made for large-scale cinema audiences. In his opinion, Netflix films should only be eligible for Oscars if the company changes its release strategy and commits to wide theatrical releases, including showing films in thousands of theatres for at least a month before moving them to streaming.

Image Courtesy: NME

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Netflix's Major Wins

In recent years, several Netflix-backed films have competed for Best Picture, starting with 'Roma' in 2019. Other nominees have included 'The Irishman,' 'The Trial of the Chicago 7,' 'The Power of the Dog,' and 'Emilia Perez.' While none have won Best Picture, Netflix-backed projects have earned major wins in the directing category, including awards for Alfonso Cuarón and Jane Campion.

James Cameron's own Oscar history is extensive, with three Academy Award wins for 'Titanic' in 1998. His later film, 'Avatar,' received several nominations in 2010, and its sequel 'Avatar: The Way of Water,' also earned recognition in 2023.

Image Courtesy: People

'Avatar: Fire and Ash' is scheduled to premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on 1st December before its theatrical release in both the United States and the United Kingdom on 19th December. Two additional sequels in the 'Avatar' franchise are also planned for release in 2029 and 2031.

Beyond 'Avatar,' Cameron is also involved in an upcoming 3D concert film for Billie Eilish titled 'Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour,' which is set to be released in March next year.

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