Exceptions to the rules

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and its more than 5,800 members followed a highly detailed process in determining who goes home with a statuette tonight.

Academy members cast nomination votes only in their own disciplines -- for example, acting choices are selected by the members of the Actors Branch -- but all academy members cast a final vote for the winners.This is the academy route for most of this year’s 24 award categories, such as best picture, best actor and best actress. But there are several exceptions.

Sound editing and visual effects

Branches narrowed the field to seven nominees apiece. Finalists submitted a 10- to 15-minute reel for branch members, who whittled the groups to three each. The entire academy cast a final vote.

Foreign-language films

A committee selected five finalists. All academy members could cast a final vote after pledging that they watched all the nominees in a theater setting.

Documentary short subject, animated short film and live-action short film

The respective branches selected five nominees. All academy members could cast a final vote, which took place at academy screenings.

Documentary feature

The branch selected five nominees. All academy members could cast a final vote after pledging in writing that they have watched all the nominees in a theater setting.

Source: oscars.org