The Academy Award for Best Actor is an annual award presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to recognize outstanding performances by male actors in leading roles. It is one of the most prestigious awards in the film industry and is awarded during the annual Academy Awards ceremony, also known as the Oscars. Nominees for the Best Actor award are selected by members of the Academy, and the winner is determined through a voting process. The award has been given since 1929, and many legendary actors, such as Marlon Brando and Daniel Day-Lewis, have received this honor for their exceptional work in film.