Academy Invites 529 Film Professionals Including Vishal Bhardwaj to Join 2026 Membership
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 529 film professionals, including several Indians, to join its 2026 membership class, granting them potential voting rights for the Oscars. Notable Indian invitees include filmmaker-composer Vishal Bhardwaj, costume designer Eka Lakhani, casting director Dilip Shankar, and editors Deepa Bhatia and A. Sreekar Prasad. The new class features 42% women, 56% from underrepresented communities, and members from 60 countries, reflecting increased diversity.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 0%, Centre 100%, Right 0%). Overall sentiment is positive (75/100). Lens Score 32/100 — low public interest.
Outlets analysed (first-hand measurement by TBN's Bias Engine):
- timesnow— balanced framing, positive sentiment
- indiatoday— balanced framing, positive sentiment
AI Analysis
The articles present a straightforward cultural and entertainment news story without political framing. They focus on the recognition of film professionals, highlighting diversity and inclusion within the Academy. The coverage includes perspectives from the Academy's official statements and emphasizes the significance of membership without partisan viewpoints.
The overall tone across the articles is positive and celebratory, highlighting the honor of being invited to the Academy and the increased diversity among invitees. The coverage conveys recognition and achievement within the film industry, with no negative or critical sentiment present.
How 2 sources covered this story
Each source's own headline, political lean, and sentiment — so you can see framing differences at a glance.