The In Memoriam segment of the 2026 Oscars has generated controversy for not including several prominent figures from the film industry, despite its 15-minute duration and paying tribute to numerous personalities who passed away in recent months. Among the most notable absences is that of IMAX pioneer, David Keighley, who left a significant legacy in the film industry.
An unforgivable oversight
Geoff Keighley, son of David Keighley and creator of The Game Awards, expressed his deep disappointment through social media, stating: “I am incredibly disappointed and heartbroken that the Academy has overlooked my father’s name.” This statement has resonated among industry professionals, who share the sentiment that the omission does not do justice to David’s contributions to feature film.
During his 15 years as quality director at IMAX, Keighley was an essential reference in overseeing the post-production of more than 500 films, ensuring that the brand’s image and sound standards remained intact. Renowned directors like Christopher Nolan and James Cameron have highlighted the importance of his work, stating that “no director could shoot or project film in any format today if it weren’t for David Keighley”, Nolan previously commented.
For his part, Cameron recalled the collaboration he had with Keighley and his dedication to creating the ultimate cinematic experience. “He was a great ally and a staunch advocate,” said the director of Avatar, highlighting his lasting legacy in the world of cinema. These comments reinforce the perception that David Keighley’s exclusion from the Oscars ceremony is a mistake that many consider regrettable in light of his immense impact on the industry.
