September 5, 2001

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  John Pavlik - (310) 247-3000

Beverly Hills, CA - The 2001 guidelines concerning the limits on the ways in which film companies may "campaign" for Academy Awards were sent by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences last week to studio and distribution company marketing departments.

Academy Executive Administrator Ric Robertson said the guidelines have been tightened and the potential penalty for violation strengthened.

• While screenings are encouraged, the guideline now specifically prohibits "add-ons," such as receptions and Q&A with filmmakers.
• Key art is no longer allowed on screening schedules. Graphics are limited to logo and title. The change is echoed throughout the guidelines wherever graphics are addressed, including videotape and DVD packaging.
• A guideline regarding email has been added, establishing the same restrictions as apply to traditional mail. This item prohibits mention of or links to websites in email or traditional mail.
• A website guideline has been added, equating website contents with those activities, materials and media that are not subject to the guidelines.
• The date after which videocassettes or DVDs can be received by Academy members has been moved up two weeks, to November 1. Commercial packaging is no longer allowed for tapes or DVDs already in release to the home video market.

In cases where violations of the guidelines are encountered, Robertson warned, "significant penalties" may be imposed, including, "in the case of more serious infringements, up to half of a company's allotment of tickets to the Academy Awards Presentation and Governors Ball could be held back."

Robertson said the guidelines were formulated following summer meetings held by the Academy's Public Relations Branch Executive Committee with top executives of the distribution company's marketing departments.