An Academy Award. (Photo via Wikimedia Commons)

Also known as the Oscars, nominations for the 84th annual Academy Awards are scheduled for Jan. 24, 2012. Now, the AMPAS is saying that large receptions for films and/or individual nominees is prohibited after the nominees are released.

Normally, the social calendars of those nominated for any award begin to fill quickly during the month's time between the nominations and the awards shows, but the AMPAS hopes that this new measure will curtail such actions.

There are no restrictions on events or receptions before the nominations are announced in late January, but after January 24, no individual from any film may participate in more than two panel discussions.

Academy President Ric Robertson said the new rules were put in place to re-emphasize the films themselves.

"For us, it was a matter of perception as much as anything," Robertson told TheWrap. "To the extent that you guys were writing about parties and campaigns and things other than the work itself, that's not good for us. We want to do everything we can to put the focus back on the work."

The restrictions also extend to social media. According to the AMPAS, any Academy member that violates the new rules may get a one-year suspension and could be subject to subsequent expulsion.

The 84th Academy Awards will air on ABC on Feb. 26, 2012.

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