This year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to join its esteemed ranks to 487 new members, marking a significant moment for the film industry. Among the notable invitees are prominent figures such as SS Rajamouli, Shabana Azmi, Lily Gladstone, Greta Lee, and others, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on cinema.
The Academy’s announcement, made on Tuesday night, revealed a diverse list encompassing executives and artists celebrated for their impactful work in theatrical motion pictures. Shabana Azmi, recognized for her remarkable debut in Shyam Benegal’s “Ankur” and acclaimed performances in “Arth,” “Godmother,” and “Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani,” stands out among the talented Indians included in this prestigious list.
SS Rajamouli, the visionary filmmaker behind the groundbreaking “RRR,” which made history as the first Indian film to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, is also among the invitees. Adding to this recognition, Rama Rajamouli, known for her contributions in costume design, has received an invitation to join the esteemed Costume Designers section of the Academy.
The roster of invitees extends to directors like Rima Das, renowned for her critically acclaimed works such as “Village Rockstars” and “Bulbul Can Sing,” highlighting their significant impact on global cinema. Joining them is Ritesh Sidhwani, the accomplished producer behind influential films like “Gully Boy” and “Dil Chahta Hai,” who joins the esteemed producers branch of the Academy.
Prem Rakshith, a distinguished choreographer, has been welcomed into the Production and Technology branch, underscoring the Academy’s commitment to recognizing excellence across various facets of film production. Notably, this year’s invitations reflect a commendable stride towards inclusivity, with 44% of the new invitees being women—a 4% increase from the previous year. Additionally, 41% of the invitees hail from underrepresented groups, further enhancing the diversity and richness of perspectives within the Academy.
In essence, the Academy’s latest invitations celebrate not only individual achievements but also the vibrant diversity and evolving landscape of cinema worldwide. Each new member brings a unique voice and vision, enriching the Academy’s collective tapestry and shaping the future of filmmaking. As these luminaries join the ranks of the Academy, they continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations in the art of storytelling through film.
