Screener
Advance copies of films or episodes sent to award voters and critics for consideration.
Definition
Screeners are advance copies of films or television programs distributed to award voters, guild members, and critics during awards season. These copies allow voters to watch contenders at their convenience rather than attending theatrical screenings.
Screener distribution is tightly controlled due to piracy concerns, with watermarking and legal restrictions attempting to prevent unauthorized copying and distribution.
Why It Matters
Screener strategy significantly impacts awards outcomes—voters are more likely to watch and remember projects that arrive conveniently. Distribution timing, packaging, and accompanying materials all influence voter engagement.
Screener leaks have historically caused industry headaches, with major releases appearing online before theatrical debuts when awards screeners were compromised.
Examples in Practice
Academy members receive hundreds of screeners annually, creating viewing challenges that favor projects with strong FYC campaigns to cut through the clutter. Some voters famously never open their screeners, voting based on reputation alone.
Streaming has complicated screener practices, with platforms often providing direct access to voters rather than physical copies, changing consumption patterns.