Oscar rejects Puerto Rico's foreign-lingo film entry

Despite getting sent 11 photos for foreign-language film Oscar consideration since 1986, Puerto Rico continues to be shut from the race this season due to its status like a U.S. protectorate. However, the Dominican Republican won an attract get its pic into account. "We desired to obvious up an inconsistency that permitted a U.S. territory to compete inside a category intended for nations outdoors the U.S.," stated AMPAS chief operating officer Ric Robertson. "We said excitedly within our letter this past year that 2010 will be the last time they might submit an entry." Based on Puerto Rico's film commissioner Mariella Perez, the Academy informed her in August 2010 from the rule. "After asking it to reconsider, the Academy responded that it is decision was final, but that Puerto Rico could make an application for the other groups," Perez stated. "I informed the filmmakers of the new rule however they sent their film anyway." Naturally, the Academy declined helmer Sonia Fritz's The spanish language-language "America," starring Edward James Olmos, Tony Plana and Lymari Nadal. Puerto Rican commentators allege the Academy bowed to pressure from Hispanic filmmakers in other states who felt that Puerto Rico had been given a preferred status. They question why Puerto Rico is known as a completely independent country in sporting occasions. "Different organizations have different rules," stated Robertson. Puerto Rico continues to be posting records since Marcos Zurinaga's 1986 pic "La gran fiesta" (The Large Party) was the hopeful within the 59th Oscars later. In 1989, Jacobo Morales' "What Went Down to Santiago" grew to become the very first local pic to clinch a nom. This Year, Rafi Mercado's "Miente" (Lie) vied for any foreign-lingo film Oscar nom. Fritz will still are able in a foreign-lingo Oscar slot through tobago pic she co created, "La Hija Natural" (Love Child) by Leticia Tonos. It was initially declined through the Academy on the technicality but was recognized after tobago become a huge hit. The nation had unsuccessful to submit what they are called of their selection committee people towards the org prior to the March. 3 deadline. The 84th Oscars is going to be held February. 26 in the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com