The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today a new global award that celebrates moviegoing and the great tradition of the theatrical experience. The Academy Marquee Theater List is designed to recognize the most remarkable movie theaters around the world and honor the very best in exhibition. The Academy will recognize theaters that provide exceptional audience experiences, preserve cinematic history and serve as cultural anchors in their communities.
As we celebrate the Academy’s 100th anniversary in 2027, the Academy will select 50 theaters for the first Marquee Theater List in the spring of 2027. It will include 25 theaters from the United States and 25 international theaters. A committee of Academy members across all branches will select the movie theaters, and these will be approved by the Academy’s Board of Governors.
Eligible movie theaters must be brick-and-mortar theaters that operate year-round and can be located anywhere in the world. Theaters may show first-run films or repertory screenings. A maximum of 10 theaters operated by the same theater chain or owner may be submitted in a single submission cycle.
The evaluation criteria for the movie theaters include the following factors:
- Community engagement
- Visual and audio presentation
- Programming
- Diversity, inclusion and accessibility
- Historic significance and preservation
- Theater design, lighting and conditions
- Concessions
Selected movie theaters will be featured on the Academy’s digital platforms, including its website and social media channels, and will receive a physical certification to display in their lobbies.
The application is available now, with a deadline of Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 5pm PT. There is a fee per submission, with a tiered application schedule:
| Early: US $250 | Monday, June 1 – Tuesday, June 30 |
| Regular: US $350 | Wednesday, July 1 – Friday, July 3 |
| Late: US $450 | Saturday, August 1 – Tuesday, August 25 |