What do voters actually look for in a Best Picture winner?

[Steven31]

I just watched the ceremony and I’m genuinely confused about how that film won Best Picture over the other nominees. The direction and acting in the runner-up felt so much more cohesive and powerful to me. Am I missing something about what the voters look for in a winner these days?

[Mila_B]

I felt the same watching it for Best Picture. I think the voters look for how a film holds up in many rooms over time not just how tight the scenes feel tonight.

[Alexander5]

A friend who used to vote told me they weigh campaign and visibility as much as craft. Maybe that film had more attention or buzz that year.

[Edward67]

I am not sure what I am missing. The acting did land for me but the overall cohesion felt different in the other film.

[StellaEJ]

Do you think the history or prestige of the studio weighed in more than the craft this time?