The Spanish Film Academy is set to host the 40th Goya Awards in 2026, introducing significant changes to both the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in filmmaking and the awards' eligibility criteria.
In response to the evolving role of AI in the film industry, the Academy has updated its guidelines to clarify that AI will serve as a support tool in filmmaking, emphasizing the continued importance of human creativity and oversight. This decision aligns with broader industry trends, as AI technologies are increasingly being utilized to streamline various aspects of film production, including post-production tasks like editing and special effects. However, the Academy has explicitly banned AI-generated compositions from the Best Original Score and Best Original Song categories to maintain artistic integrity.
Additionally, the Academy has revised the eligibility criteria for the Best Film category. Executive producers, who have made substantial contributions to a film's development, will now be eligible for consideration. This change acknowledges the evolving roles within film production and the increasing influence of executive producers in shaping a film's creative direction. Similar trends are observed in other major film awards, such as the Oscars, which have also expanded eligibility criteria to reflect the collaborative nature of modern filmmaking.
Furthermore, the Art Direction category will undergo modifications, and new regulations will be introduced for short film festivals. These changes aim to ensure the quality and authenticity of films competing for the awards, keeping the Goya Awards relevant and prestigious in the global film landscape. The Goya Awards continue to serve as a key indicator of the health and direction of Spanish cinema, with these updates designed to align the awards with the industry's future.