Bill Kramer

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences remains one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions, devoted to advancing the art and science of filmmaking on a truly global scale. With a distinguished membership of more than 11,000 industry professionals, the Academy continues to champion cinematic excellence, bringing together creativity, innovation, and storytelling at the highest level. Its enduring mission is to recognise achievement, preserve the rich history of film, and inspire future generations of storytellers. As it moves into 2027 and the era of the 99th Oscars, the Academy stands as a beacon of optimism and possibility, inviting the world to celebrate the transformative power of cinema through its iconic awards and year-round cultural initiatives.

Founded on May 4, 1927, with Douglas Fairbanks as its first president, the Academy has evolved from an intimate gathering of pioneers into a global authority that defines artistic recognition in film. As it approaches its centenary in 2028, the Academy100 campaign—a landmark $500 million global initiative—continues to expand its reach and secure its future. This ambitious vision is shaping a new chapter of growth, extending the Academy’s presence beyond Los Angeles to key cultural capitals such as Rome and London, reinforcing its role as a truly international institution.

Culturally, the Academy remains the foremost guardian of film heritage and a powerful advocate for diversity, inclusion, and creative opportunity. Through the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the largest museum dedicated to cinema, it offers an immersive journey through the stories that have shaped our world. Building on the momentum of recent years, the transition from the 98th to the 99th Oscars reflects a continued commitment to global representation and recognition, celebrating not only the artists in front of the camera but the extraordinary talent behind it—including the landmark introduction of the Best Casting category, honouring those who bring characters to life.

For audiences and creators alike, the 99th Oscars mark another exhilarating chapter in the Academy’s evolving story. Following the remarkable success and global resonance of the 98th ceremony, the upcoming awards promise to elevate the experience even further—blending tradition with innovation, and reaching audiences across more than 200 territories worldwide. Beyond the ceremony itself, the Academy continues to engage film lovers through immersive exhibitions, screenings, and educational programmes, ensuring that the magic of cinema remains vibrant, accessible, and inspiring. In every frame and every story, the Academy affirms a timeless truth: while films allow us to dream, it is through the Academy that those dreams are celebrated, preserved, and carried into the future.