What's Happening?
Deadline has launched a new streaming site called Contenders, providing virtual access to 13 films from the awards season lineup. This initiative was announced alongside the Contenders Film: Los Angeles
event, where Guillermo del Toro received the inaugural Contenders Hall of Fame award. The streaming site aims to democratize access to film screenings and panels, allowing guild and Academy voters to view films online immediately after in-person events. This move is expected to accelerate awards chatter and reshape voting behavior by offering earlier and broader access to potential contenders.
Why It's Important?
The launch of the Contenders streaming site is significant as it changes the dynamics of awards season campaigning. By providing immediate online access to films, it reduces gatekeeping and allows more voters to participate in the screening process. This could lead to faster consensus building around films and potentially influence the outcome of awards. The introduction of new Oscar categories for Casting in 2026 and Stunts in 2028 further highlights the evolving landscape of film awards, encouraging campaigns to target these new categories.
What's Next?
As the Contenders streaming site becomes a standard part of awards season, producers and studios may adjust their strategies to leverage this platform for campaigning. The site’s impact on voter behavior and awards outcomes will be closely monitored, with potential shifts in how films are promoted and discussed. The broader access could also lead to increased visibility for indie films, although there is a risk of them being overshadowed by larger studio productions.
