By alexpettyfersource 
Empire Awards vs. Oscars: What Makes Them Different?
When it comes to awards ceremonies, two of the most prestigious events in the film industry are the Empire Awards and the Oscars. While both events celebrate outstanding achievements in filmmaking, they differ in a number of ways that make each unique. Here, we will explore the key differences between the Empire Awards and the Oscars, and what sets them apart from each other.
History and Prestige
The Oscars, officially known as the Academy Awards, are the oldest and most prestigious film awards ceremony in the world. The Oscars were first held in 1929 and are presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to honor excellence in cinematic achievements. Winning an Oscar is considered the highest honor in the film industry and can significantly boost a filmmaker’s career.
On the other hand, the Empire Awards were established in 1996 by the British film magazine Empire as a way to celebrate the best in film as voted for by the magazine’s readers. While the Empire Awards may not have the same level of prestige as the Oscars, they are still highly regarded within the film industry and are known for recognizing popular and genre films that may not receive as much attention at the Oscars.
Categories and Nominations
One of the major differences between the Empire Awards and the Oscars is the categories in which films are nominated. The Oscars have a wide range of categories including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and more. The Academy Awards also have separate categories for animated and foreign language films, as well as technical categories such as Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Editing.
In contrast, the Empire Awards have fewer categories and tend to focus more on genre films such as sci-fi, horror, and fantasy. Some of the unique categories at the Empire Awards include Best Horror, Best Comedy, and Best Thriller. This allows the Empire Awards to recognize films that may not be as well-represented at the Oscars.
Voting Process
Another key difference between the Empire Awards and the Oscars is the voting process. The Oscars are voted on by the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which consists of over 9,000 industry professionals including actors, directors, and producers. The voting process for the Oscars is famously long and complex, with multiple rounds of voting to determine the winners in each category.
In contrast, the Empire Awards are voted on by readers of the magazine Empire, as well as members of the general public who can vote online. This gives the Empire Awards a more democratic feel, as anyone can participate in the voting process and have a say in who wins each award. While some may argue that this makes the Empire Awards less prestigious, it does allow for a broader range of films to be recognized.
Ceremony and Atmosphere
The Oscars are known for their glitzy red carpet, star-studded audience, and glamorous ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The event is a major Hollywood spectacle that is watched by millions of viewers around the world. The Oscars are also known for their lengthy broadcast, which can run upwards of three hours or more.
On the other hand, the Empire Awards have a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, with a smaller audience and less formal dress code. The ceremony is typically held in London and is attended by a mix of industry professionals, fans, and celebrities. The Empire Awards are known for their fun and lighthearted tone, with lots of humor and surprises throughout the evening.
In conclusion, while both the Empire Awards and the Oscars celebrate excellence in filmmaking, they each offer a unique perspective on the film industry. The Oscars are the oldest and most prestigious awards ceremony, with a wide range of categories and a complex voting process. The Empire Awards, on the other hand, are more focused on genre films and have a more democratic voting process. Ultimately, both awards ceremonies have their own charm and appeal, making them important events in the film calendar.