EXCLUSIVE: In another example of the reality of the Covid world we, and the entertainment industry, are living in, Deadline has learned the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences will not be traveling to Colorado for its annual member trip to the Telluride Film Festival this upcoming Labor Day weekend, and as such will not be holding its usual cocktail reception which has been a highlight of the fest in recent years and was expected to once again draw a packed room of Oscar voters, as well as AMPAS officials including President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson. Sources tell me the current Delta Variant surge is a key reason the Academy is skipping the fest this year out of “an abundance of caution.” In recent weeks the Academy had been mulling whether to stick with tradition and attend or forgo the festival this year.

Of course Telluride is considered a key starting point for Oscar season and will be showcasing numerous awards hopefuls, between September 2-6, so not having the usual AMPAS contingent in town will be a disappointment for those launching their contenders there in about three weeks time.  Had they decided to attend it is likely the reception itself would have moved to an outdoor area in order to comply with all the various national, state, and local guidelines of safety and social distancing. In past years the reception was such a must-attend event and so crowded it was difficult to maueuver. The last time the Academy landed in Telluride was 2019. Due to Covid fears the festival was cancelled last year for the first time ever. Telluride is a very insulated town and has generally had very low Covid case rates.

Despite the absence of the Academy, it is still all systems go for the festival, in terms of studio and distributor participation. In fact, I have been contacted by at least one major player with several films this year asking if I am comfortable attending their planned event “as long as all precautions are taken”.  I  have heard of no one so far canceling or changing their plans regarding participation at Telluride. The festival keeps its lineup secret until the day before it starts and has so far not officially announced just who and what will be there, but there is lots of informed speculation and it appears festival honchos are putting together a very strong and promising lineup of films and tributes including in-person star and filmmaker participation.  The Telluride Festival is also reinforcing all healthy and safety guidelines and requirements including proof of vaccination that will be part of everyone’s official pass. Earlier this week the festival sent an email to all attendees adding another requirement of a Covid test taken within 72 hours of arrival, with written proof a stipulation of getting your pass when you arrive. Here is a copy of what they wrote: