When Jonathan Majors was a student at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, he taped a photocopied black and white headshot of Oscar-winning actor, director and activist Sidney Poitier on his wall.
“That’s the thing about Sidney, a lot of people know him from all his beautiful film work, but this is a theater-trained actor, that’s how I got to know him,” Majors tells Variety of the impact Poitier had on his career. “That’s why he was up in my dorm room — because I didn’t know anything about film — I just knew this man played Walter Lee [Younger from ‘A Raisin in the Sun’] on Broadway — the Hamlet, the King Lear of the African American canon.”
When Poitier died in January, at age 94, tributes poured in from across the industry and among the salutes was the Gotham Film and Media Institute’s posthumous presentation of the 2022 Icon tribute, which Majors,...
“That’s the thing about Sidney, a lot of people know him from all his beautiful film work, but this is a theater-trained actor, that’s how I got to know him,” Majors tells Variety of the impact Poitier had on his career. “That’s why he was up in my dorm room — because I didn’t know anything about film — I just knew this man played Walter Lee [Younger from ‘A Raisin in the Sun’] on Broadway — the Hamlet, the King Lear of the African American canon.”
When Poitier died in January, at age 94, tributes poured in from across the industry and among the salutes was the Gotham Film and Media Institute’s posthumous presentation of the 2022 Icon tribute, which Majors,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Film Independent President Josh Welsh announced today that entertainment attorney and producer Brenda Robinson has been elected the new chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
- 1/26/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Brenda Robinson, an entertainment attorney, producer and partner at film financing and development company Gamechanger Films, has been elected the new chair of the board of directors at Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization behind the Spirit Awards.
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
- 1/26/2022
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
David Kaminow, the marketing chief at the Annapurna-mgm joint venture recently rebranded as United Artists Releasing, has stepped down from his post.
The executive sent a memo notifying colleagues of his decision on Friday, staff including distribution chief Erik Lomis and communications head Adriene Bowles, individuals familiar with his exit told Variety. Kaminow was beloved in workplace, prompting tears in the office when he delivered the news. Kaminow said that as a single father to two young girls, the recent loss of his own mother prompted him to take time with his family.
Uar was unveiled in February, with added support from the distribution team of Orion Pictures (another MGM holding), led by Kevin Wilson under Annapurna’s Megan Ellison and MGM’s chief operating officer Chris Brearton. Former Screen Gems executive Pam Kunath serves as chief operating officer. The venture’s marquee property is the upcoming “Bond 25,” starring...
The executive sent a memo notifying colleagues of his decision on Friday, staff including distribution chief Erik Lomis and communications head Adriene Bowles, individuals familiar with his exit told Variety. Kaminow was beloved in workplace, prompting tears in the office when he delivered the news. Kaminow said that as a single father to two young girls, the recent loss of his own mother prompted him to take time with his family.
Uar was unveiled in February, with added support from the distribution team of Orion Pictures (another MGM holding), led by Kevin Wilson under Annapurna’s Megan Ellison and MGM’s chief operating officer Chris Brearton. Former Screen Gems executive Pam Kunath serves as chief operating officer. The venture’s marquee property is the upcoming “Bond 25,” starring...
- 6/14/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
A throng of Hollywood elite in a tent on the freezing beach gave a standing ovation when “If Beale Street Could Talk” won the best feature prize at the Independent Spirit Awards in February.
Barry Jenkins also took directing honors for the film, an adaptation of James Baldwin’s classic novel that was produced by Annapurna and Plan B.
Looking over the rows of boldface names, including Timothée Chalamet and Glenn Close, Jenkins singled out his absent benefactor, who was at home stricken with the flu: “Megan Ellison!” he exclaimed. “Financiers do not put their money behind black authors. Thank you for your money, my dear. James Baldwin thanks you.”
Jenkins is not alone in heaping praise on Ellison, who is known in the creative community as someone who consistently backs auteur directors, among them Paul Thomas Anderson, Spike Jonze and David O. Russell, making sizable investments in risky movies that major studios frequently shun.
Barry Jenkins also took directing honors for the film, an adaptation of James Baldwin’s classic novel that was produced by Annapurna and Plan B.
Looking over the rows of boldface names, including Timothée Chalamet and Glenn Close, Jenkins singled out his absent benefactor, who was at home stricken with the flu: “Megan Ellison!” he exclaimed. “Financiers do not put their money behind black authors. Thank you for your money, my dear. James Baldwin thanks you.”
Jenkins is not alone in heaping praise on Ellison, who is known in the creative community as someone who consistently backs auteur directors, among them Paul Thomas Anderson, Spike Jonze and David O. Russell, making sizable investments in risky movies that major studios frequently shun.
- 3/12/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Development marks 100th anniversary of United Artists launch.
MGM and Annapurna Pictures have expanded their distribution partnership and branded their existing joint venture as United Artists Releasing.
Tuesday’s (Feb 5) development comes 100 years to the day after the launch of United Artists. The parties said the new expanded venture would be bolstered by the addition of the Orion Pictures distribution team and cover releases from tentpoles to lower budget films to auteur-driven awards bait.
The United Artists Releasing hierarchy plans to work with MGM and Annapurna as well as third-party filmmakers. Laika’s animated feature Missing Link (pictured) will be...
MGM and Annapurna Pictures have expanded their distribution partnership and branded their existing joint venture as United Artists Releasing.
Tuesday’s (Feb 5) development comes 100 years to the day after the launch of United Artists. The parties said the new expanded venture would be bolstered by the addition of the Orion Pictures distribution team and cover releases from tentpoles to lower budget films to auteur-driven awards bait.
The United Artists Releasing hierarchy plans to work with MGM and Annapurna as well as third-party filmmakers. Laika’s animated feature Missing Link (pictured) will be...
- 2/6/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Annapurna and MGM announced on Tuesday that they are expanding their existing theatrical distribution joint venture, branding the collaboration as United Artists Releasing.
The expansion of the Annapurna and MGM’s collaboration, which began in December 2017, marks the return of the United Artists banner. United Artists opened its doors for the first time 100 years ago on Feb. 5 and went on to become one of the most iconic movie studios in history.
“I could not be more excited to have the opportunity to expand this releasing venture under the iconic banner that is United Artists. Annapurna was founded with a very similar intent as the original [United Artists] in 1919 – to provide a home for artists and their creations in hopes of moving our culture forward,” said Annapurna founder and CEO Megan Ellison in a statement. “With the major corporations continuing to consolidate, I believe it is important to have an independent option to...
The expansion of the Annapurna and MGM’s collaboration, which began in December 2017, marks the return of the United Artists banner. United Artists opened its doors for the first time 100 years ago on Feb. 5 and went on to become one of the most iconic movie studios in history.
“I could not be more excited to have the opportunity to expand this releasing venture under the iconic banner that is United Artists. Annapurna was founded with a very similar intent as the original [United Artists] in 1919 – to provide a home for artists and their creations in hopes of moving our culture forward,” said Annapurna founder and CEO Megan Ellison in a statement. “With the major corporations continuing to consolidate, I believe it is important to have an independent option to...
- 2/5/2019
- by Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Annapurna Pictures and MGM have doubled down on their joint distribution venture, rebranding the operation as United Artists Releasing. MGM has long owned the storied UA label, which turns 100 on Tuesday.
The newly named entity will proceed with its planned slate, led by the 25th installment in the James Bond franchise — in theaters next year — as well as Richard Linklater’s “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” and a contemporary reboot of the killer-doll franchise “Child’s Play.” The venture also seeks to offer a third-party distribution alternative to the major studios and streaming companies, in the vein of projects like the upcoming Hugh Jackman family film “Missing Link” from the stop-motion studio Laika.
“I could not be more excited to have the opportunity to expand this releasing venture under the iconic banner that is United Artists. Annapurna was founded with a very similar intent … to provide a home for artists...
The newly named entity will proceed with its planned slate, led by the 25th installment in the James Bond franchise — in theaters next year — as well as Richard Linklater’s “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” and a contemporary reboot of the killer-doll franchise “Child’s Play.” The venture also seeks to offer a third-party distribution alternative to the major studios and streaming companies, in the vein of projects like the upcoming Hugh Jackman family film “Missing Link” from the stop-motion studio Laika.
“I could not be more excited to have the opportunity to expand this releasing venture under the iconic banner that is United Artists. Annapurna was founded with a very similar intent … to provide a home for artists...
- 2/5/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Development marks 100th anniversary of United Artists launch.
MGM and Annapurna Pictures have expanded their distribution partnership and branded their existing joint venture as United Artists Releasing.
Tuesday’s (5) development comes 100 years to the day after the launch of United Artists. The parties said the new expanded venture would be bolstered by the addition of the Orion Pictures distribution team and cover releases from tentpoles to lower budget films to auteur-driven awards bait.
The United Artists Releasing hierarchy plans to work with MGM and Annapurna as well as third-party filmmakers. Laika’s animated feature Missing Link (pictured) will be the first to go in April,...
MGM and Annapurna Pictures have expanded their distribution partnership and branded their existing joint venture as United Artists Releasing.
Tuesday’s (5) development comes 100 years to the day after the launch of United Artists. The parties said the new expanded venture would be bolstered by the addition of the Orion Pictures distribution team and cover releases from tentpoles to lower budget films to auteur-driven awards bait.
The United Artists Releasing hierarchy plans to work with MGM and Annapurna as well as third-party filmmakers. Laika’s animated feature Missing Link (pictured) will be the first to go in April,...
- 2/5/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
When Annapurna Pictures moved into distribution, Hollywood viewed the move as bold but bizarre. In a market where indies struggle to survive, it was a strange time to reinvent a dying economic model. Now after several costly, high-profile failures, Annapurna and MGM will work together to distribute their films theatrically in the U.S.
Annapurna hired veteran talent — from ex-Weinstein distribution president Erik Lomis and studio marketing exec Marc Weinstock to Focus Features’ publicity chief Adrienne Bowles — but they inexplicably chose “Detroit” as its first release. From director Kathryn Bigelow and writer Mark Boal, the Oscar-winning team behind “The Hurt Locker” and Annapurna’s “Zero Dark Thirty,” this intense recreation of the 1967 race riot in Detroit is a tough sit and demanded special handling from the neophyte distributor.
The movie (Metascore: 78) opened well in 20 theaters in late July, but collapsed when it went wide to 2,800 screens the following weekend. (It topped out at $16.8 million domestic.
Annapurna hired veteran talent — from ex-Weinstein distribution president Erik Lomis and studio marketing exec Marc Weinstock to Focus Features’ publicity chief Adrienne Bowles — but they inexplicably chose “Detroit” as its first release. From director Kathryn Bigelow and writer Mark Boal, the Oscar-winning team behind “The Hurt Locker” and Annapurna’s “Zero Dark Thirty,” this intense recreation of the 1967 race riot in Detroit is a tough sit and demanded special handling from the neophyte distributor.
The movie (Metascore: 78) opened well in 20 theaters in late July, but collapsed when it went wide to 2,800 screens the following weekend. (It topped out at $16.8 million domestic.
- 10/31/2017
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
When Annapurna Pictures moved into distribution, Hollywood viewed the move as bold but bizarre. In a market where indies struggle to survive, it was a strange time to reinvent a dying economic model. Now after several costly, high-profile failures, Annapurna and MGM will work together to distribute their films theatrically in the U.S.
Annapurna hired veteran talent — from ex-Weinstein distribution president Erik Lomis and studio marketing exec Marc Weinstock to Focus Features’ publicity chief Adrienne Bowles — but they inexplicably chose “Detroit” as its first release. From director Kathryn Bigelow and writer Mark Boal, the Oscar-winning team behind “The Hurt Locker” and Annapurna’s “Zero Dark Thirty,” this intense recreation of the 1967 race riot in Detroit is a tough sit and demanded special handling from the neophyte distributor.
The movie (Metascore: 78) opened well in 20 theaters in late July, but collapsed when it went wide to 2,800 screens the following weekend. (It topped out at $16.8 million domestic.
Annapurna hired veteran talent — from ex-Weinstein distribution president Erik Lomis and studio marketing exec Marc Weinstock to Focus Features’ publicity chief Adrienne Bowles — but they inexplicably chose “Detroit” as its first release. From director Kathryn Bigelow and writer Mark Boal, the Oscar-winning team behind “The Hurt Locker” and Annapurna’s “Zero Dark Thirty,” this intense recreation of the 1967 race riot in Detroit is a tough sit and demanded special handling from the neophyte distributor.
The movie (Metascore: 78) opened well in 20 theaters in late July, but collapsed when it went wide to 2,800 screens the following weekend. (It topped out at $16.8 million domestic.
- 10/31/2017
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Annapurna Pictures founder Megan Ellison has released a supercut highlighting everything the company has done since its foundation in 2011. The 131-second-long reel is a celebration of the company’s great accomplishments in its mere six years of existence.
Read More: Annapurna Pictures Hires Adriene Bowles as President of Publicity, Its First Move As An Awards-Season Distributor
The clip opens with Joaquin Phoenix in his role of Freddie Quell in Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2012 drama “The Master.” Jessica Chastain makes an appearance in John Hillcoat’s crime drama “Lawless,” which also stars Shia LeBouf, Tom Hardy and Jason Clarke. The reel also includes scenes from “20th Century Woman,” starring Annette Bening; “Sausage Party;” “Spring Breakers,” starring James Franco, Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Benson; and much more.
Read More: Annapurna Pictures To Launch Distribution and Marketing Division with Kathryn Bigelow’s ‘Untitled Detroit Project’
Up next for Annapurna is the...
Read More: Annapurna Pictures Hires Adriene Bowles as President of Publicity, Its First Move As An Awards-Season Distributor
The clip opens with Joaquin Phoenix in his role of Freddie Quell in Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2012 drama “The Master.” Jessica Chastain makes an appearance in John Hillcoat’s crime drama “Lawless,” which also stars Shia LeBouf, Tom Hardy and Jason Clarke. The reel also includes scenes from “20th Century Woman,” starring Annette Bening; “Sausage Party;” “Spring Breakers,” starring James Franco, Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Benson; and much more.
Read More: Annapurna Pictures To Launch Distribution and Marketing Division with Kathryn Bigelow’s ‘Untitled Detroit Project’
Up next for Annapurna is the...
- 3/30/2017
- by Yoselin Acevedo
- Indiewire
Focus Features used CinemaCon to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a celebratory luncheon. Judging by its show reel, Focus plans to spend the year doing what it knows best: Making movies designed for awards-season release.
Dame Judi Dench, who earned two of her seven Oscar nominations in Stephen Frears movies, reunites with her “Philomena” and “Mrs. Henderson Presents” filmmaker on lush period drama “Victoria and Abdul” (from Oscar factory Working Title), a true story about the elderly Queen Victoria, who, bored being the world’s longest-serving monarch, formed an unlikely friendship with Abdul Karim (Ali Fasal), who she makes her Indian Secretary. It’s written by the Oscar-nominated Lee Hall (“Billy Elliott”).
See More‘Blade Runner 2049’: Sony Comes Out Swinging With New Footage at CinemaCon
Dench introduced the first-look footage via video. Clearly the movie falls inside the same Academy sweet spot as Frears’ Meryl Streep Oscar vehicle...
Dame Judi Dench, who earned two of her seven Oscar nominations in Stephen Frears movies, reunites with her “Philomena” and “Mrs. Henderson Presents” filmmaker on lush period drama “Victoria and Abdul” (from Oscar factory Working Title), a true story about the elderly Queen Victoria, who, bored being the world’s longest-serving monarch, formed an unlikely friendship with Abdul Karim (Ali Fasal), who she makes her Indian Secretary. It’s written by the Oscar-nominated Lee Hall (“Billy Elliott”).
See More‘Blade Runner 2049’: Sony Comes Out Swinging With New Footage at CinemaCon
Dench introduced the first-look footage via video. Clearly the movie falls inside the same Academy sweet spot as Frears’ Meryl Streep Oscar vehicle...
- 3/30/2017
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Focus Features used CinemaCon to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a celebratory luncheon. Judging by its show reel, Focus plans to spend the year doing what it knows best: Making movies designed for awards-season release.
Dame Judi Dench, who earned two of her seven Oscar nominations in Stephen Frears movies, reunites with her “Philomena” and “Mrs. Henderson Presents” filmmaker on lush period drama “Victoria and Abdul” (from Oscar factory Working Title), a true story about the elderly Queen Victoria, who, bored being the world’s longest-serving monarch, formed an unlikely friendship with Abdul Karim (Ali Fasal), who she makes her Indian Secretary. It’s written by the Oscar-nominated Lee Hall (“Billy Elliott”).
See More‘Blade Runner 2049’: Sony Comes Out Swinging With New Footage at CinemaCon
Dench introduced the first-look footage via video. Clearly the movie falls inside the same Academy sweet spot as Frears’ Meryl Streep Oscar vehicle...
Dame Judi Dench, who earned two of her seven Oscar nominations in Stephen Frears movies, reunites with her “Philomena” and “Mrs. Henderson Presents” filmmaker on lush period drama “Victoria and Abdul” (from Oscar factory Working Title), a true story about the elderly Queen Victoria, who, bored being the world’s longest-serving monarch, formed an unlikely friendship with Abdul Karim (Ali Fasal), who she makes her Indian Secretary. It’s written by the Oscar-nominated Lee Hall (“Billy Elliott”).
See More‘Blade Runner 2049’: Sony Comes Out Swinging With New Footage at CinemaCon
Dench introduced the first-look footage via video. Clearly the movie falls inside the same Academy sweet spot as Frears’ Meryl Streep Oscar vehicle...
- 3/30/2017
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Longtime executive at The Weinstein Company and Miramax replaces Adriene Bowles, who has joined Annapurna Pictures.
Dani Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity and awards campaigns at Focus Features.
The incoming executive vice-president of publicity will be based in New York and reports to president of marketing Jason Cassidy.
Weinstein has more than 20 years of experience in the industry and spent most of the past 17 years working alongside Harvey Weinstein.
It was announced earlier this week that former Focus Features worldwide publicity and marketing chief Bowles will serve as president of publicity at Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures.
Dani Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity and awards campaigns at Focus Features.
The incoming executive vice-president of publicity will be based in New York and reports to president of marketing Jason Cassidy.
Weinstein has more than 20 years of experience in the industry and spent most of the past 17 years working alongside Harvey Weinstein.
It was announced earlier this week that former Focus Features worldwide publicity and marketing chief Bowles will serve as president of publicity at Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures.
- 3/10/2017
- ScreenDaily
Focus Features has named longtime Weinstein Co. executive Dani Weinstein as its new executive vp publicity.
The move comes a day after Focus' Adriene Bowles jumped ship to join Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures.
In her new role, Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity efforts for the entire Focus slate, including all awards campaigns. Weinstein will be based in New York and report to Focus marketing president Jason Cassidy.
“Dani is a consummate professional who has an incredible track record for spearheading breakthrough publicity campaigns for specialty titles,” Cassidy said. “Her breadth of experience working with world-class filmmakers and talent...
The move comes a day after Focus' Adriene Bowles jumped ship to join Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures.
In her new role, Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity efforts for the entire Focus slate, including all awards campaigns. Weinstein will be based in New York and report to Focus marketing president Jason Cassidy.
“Dani is a consummate professional who has an incredible track record for spearheading breakthrough publicity campaigns for specialty titles,” Cassidy said. “Her breadth of experience working with world-class filmmakers and talent...
- 3/10/2017
- by Tatiana Siegel
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dani Weinstein has been named the executive vice president of publicity at Focus Features, the company announced Friday. Weinstein, who left her former position of head of publicity at The Weinstein Company last August, will replace Adriene Bowles, who left earlier this week and was announced the president of Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures. Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity and awards campaigns for all Focus films. She will operate from New York and will report to Focus’ marketing president Jason Cassidy. Also Read: Annapurna Taps Adriene Bowles as Head of Publicity “Dani is a consummate professional who has an incredible track record for spearheading.
- 3/10/2017
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Dani Weinstein has been named executive vice president of publicity by Focus Features. Weinstein, who last August left her post as The Weinstein Company’s head of publicity, will replace Adriene Bowles. She is leaving to become president of publicity at Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures. Weinstein will oversee theatrical publicity and awards campaigns for all Focus films. She will operate from New York, and report to Focus Features marketing president Jason…...
- 3/10/2017
- Deadline
Former Focus Features worldwide publicity and marketing chief lands at Megan Ellison’s auteur-driven company.
Adriene Bowles has been appointed president of publicity at Annapurna Pictures where she will oversee communications and spearhead publicity and awards campaigns.
Bowles arrives from Focus Features, where she served as president of worldwide publicity and executive vice-president of marketing.
She will work closely with and report to Annapurna president Marc Weinstock and president of marketing David Kaminow.
Annapurna is preparing to release Kathryn Bigelow’s Untitled Detroit Project, the first film under its new full-service marketing and distribution operation.
The crime drama takes place against the backdrop of Detroit’s 1967 riots and is scheduled to open theatrically on August 4.
“In building our marketing dream team, there was no better choice than Adriene, who from day one was at the top of our list to run publicity,” Kaminow said. “Her impressive background, passion, and strategic creativity are unparalleled and I look forward...
Adriene Bowles has been appointed president of publicity at Annapurna Pictures where she will oversee communications and spearhead publicity and awards campaigns.
Bowles arrives from Focus Features, where she served as president of worldwide publicity and executive vice-president of marketing.
She will work closely with and report to Annapurna president Marc Weinstock and president of marketing David Kaminow.
Annapurna is preparing to release Kathryn Bigelow’s Untitled Detroit Project, the first film under its new full-service marketing and distribution operation.
The crime drama takes place against the backdrop of Detroit’s 1967 riots and is scheduled to open theatrically on August 4.
“In building our marketing dream team, there was no better choice than Adriene, who from day one was at the top of our list to run publicity,” Kaminow said. “Her impressive background, passion, and strategic creativity are unparalleled and I look forward...
- 3/9/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Annapurna Pictures has named Adriene Bowles its new president of publicity. Bowles, a marketing and PR executive whose tenure at Focus Features stretches all the way back to its inception as USA Films, will work with Annapurna president Marc Weinstock and marketing president David Kaminow. In her new role, she’ll spearhead awards campaigns as part of Megan Ellison’s new marketing and distribution wing in addition to serving as Annapurna’s head of communications.
Bowles, who leaves her post as Focus’ president of worldwide publicity and executive VP marketing, worked on campaigns that included “Nocturnal Animals,” “The Theory of Everything,” “Dallas Buyers Club,” “Milk,” “Lost in Translation,” and “Brokeback Mountain.”
Her hire is a significant move for Annapurna as it prepares to make a stance in specialty distribution. Annapurna is expected to be a significant player on the festival circuit, and was aggressively bidding for titles at the most recent Sundance Film Festival.
Bowles, who leaves her post as Focus’ president of worldwide publicity and executive VP marketing, worked on campaigns that included “Nocturnal Animals,” “The Theory of Everything,” “Dallas Buyers Club,” “Milk,” “Lost in Translation,” and “Brokeback Mountain.”
Her hire is a significant move for Annapurna as it prepares to make a stance in specialty distribution. Annapurna is expected to be a significant player on the festival circuit, and was aggressively bidding for titles at the most recent Sundance Film Festival.
- 3/9/2017
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Adriene Bowles, who ran publicity all through the various gyrations Focus Features went through over the past few years, is leaving to become president of publicity at Annapurna Pictures. It’s the latest signal Megan Ellison’s company is ready to step up as a substantial distributor as well as financier/producer of prestige fare, after top execs Erik Lomis and Marc Weinstock joined the company. Bowles, one of the most respected PR execs in the prestige space, will…...
- 3/9/2017
- Deadline
Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures continues to add Hollywood vets as it ramps up to become a full-fledged production and distribution house, naming former Focus Features head of publicity Adriene Bowles to the same position at Annapurna, TheWrap has learned. Bowles has worked for Focus since it was created in 2002, serving as its president of worldwide publicity and executive vice president of marketing since 2007. She has overseen the publicity campaigns for Oscar-winning movies including “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Brokeback Mountain.” Annapurna, the indie shingle behind “Zero Dark Thirty” and last summer’s surprise hit “Sausage Party,” hired former Twentieth Century Fox President of.
- 3/9/2017
- by Matt Pressberg
- The Wrap
Adriene Bowles, longtime head of publicity at Focus Features, is joining Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures as that company ramps up its new marketing and distribution operation.
As president of publicity, Bowles will oversee publicity and awards campaigns for Annapurna's future releases as well as company communications.
With Marc Weinstock newly installed as president of Annapurna Pictures, the company is launching its own marketing and distribution division with the Aug. 4 release of Kathryn Bigelow’s currently untitled film set during the Detroit riots of 1967. Bowles will report to Weinstock and president of marketing David Kaminow.
"As Annapurna continues to grow, we truly could...
As president of publicity, Bowles will oversee publicity and awards campaigns for Annapurna's future releases as well as company communications.
With Marc Weinstock newly installed as president of Annapurna Pictures, the company is launching its own marketing and distribution division with the Aug. 4 release of Kathryn Bigelow’s currently untitled film set during the Detroit riots of 1967. Bowles will report to Weinstock and president of marketing David Kaminow.
"As Annapurna continues to grow, we truly could...
- 3/9/2017
- by Gregg Kilday ,Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On July 15, 1996, IndieWire launched as an e-mail newsletter providing “the daily news service for independent film.” (See the first newsletter here.) The original iteration of the site was the brainchild of Cheri Barner, Eugene Hernandez and Mark Rabinowitz, three recent college students obsessed with the movies. In the ensuing years, IndieWire grew and changed hands many times over. Barner now works as a talent manager in Los Angeles, Hernandez is the deputy director of the Film Society Lincoln Center, and Rabinowitz is a freelance publicist, consultant and programmer.
But they have remained a part of our close-knit community. As IndieWire arrives at its 20th anniversary, the trio gathered together for their first joint interview to recall the early days of IndieWire — as well as the thriving American independent film scene that inspired the publication.
Eugene Hernandez: IndieWire was an outgrowth of something that Mark, Cheri and I had started in 1995. At the time,...
But they have remained a part of our close-knit community. As IndieWire arrives at its 20th anniversary, the trio gathered together for their first joint interview to recall the early days of IndieWire — as well as the thriving American independent film scene that inspired the publication.
Eugene Hernandez: IndieWire was an outgrowth of something that Mark, Cheri and I had started in 1995. At the time,...
- 7/14/2016
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
Incoming Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel has announced his core team in the wake of the company’s merger with FilmDistrict as it emerged that senior executives Andrew Karpen, David Brooks and Jack Foley will be leaving the new set-up.
Current Focus Co-ceo Andrew Karpen was asked to relocate to Los Angeles but declined in order to keep his family in New York.
Karpen will remain in in his current role during the transition period, as will president of marketing David Brooks and president of distribution Jack Foley before they move on.
FilmDistrict COO Adrian Alperovich and president of marketing Christine Birch transition into the same respective roles at the new-look Focus, while FilmDistrict’s Jim Orr will head distribution and Lia Buman moves over to become president of acquisitions.
Current Focus Features president of publicity and evp of marketing Adriene Bowles will retain her current title and responsibilities, as will production president Jeb Brody.
Former [link=co...
Current Focus Co-ceo Andrew Karpen was asked to relocate to Los Angeles but declined in order to keep his family in New York.
Karpen will remain in in his current role during the transition period, as will president of marketing David Brooks and president of distribution Jack Foley before they move on.
FilmDistrict COO Adrian Alperovich and president of marketing Christine Birch transition into the same respective roles at the new-look Focus, while FilmDistrict’s Jim Orr will head distribution and Lia Buman moves over to become president of acquisitions.
Current Focus Features president of publicity and evp of marketing Adriene Bowles will retain her current title and responsibilities, as will production president Jeb Brody.
Former [link=co...
- 10/15/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Incoming Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel has announced his core team in the wake of the company’s merger with FilmDistrict as it emerged that senior executives Andrew Karpen, David Brooks and Jack Foley will be leaving the new set-up.
Current Focus Co-ceo Andrew Karpen was asked to relocate to Los Angeles but declined in order to keep his family in New York.
Karpen will remain in in his current role during the transition period, as will president of marketing David Brooks and president of distribution Jack Foley before they move on.
FilmDistrict COO Adrian Alperovich and president of marketing Christine Birch transition into the same respective roles at the new-look Focus, while FilmDistrict’s Jim Orr will head distribution and Lia Buman moves over to become president of acquisitions.
Current Focus Features president of publicity and evp of marketing Adriene Bowles will retain her current title and responsibilities, as will production president Jeb Brody.
Former [link=co...
Current Focus Co-ceo Andrew Karpen was asked to relocate to Los Angeles but declined in order to keep his family in New York.
Karpen will remain in in his current role during the transition period, as will president of marketing David Brooks and president of distribution Jack Foley before they move on.
FilmDistrict COO Adrian Alperovich and president of marketing Christine Birch transition into the same respective roles at the new-look Focus, while FilmDistrict’s Jim Orr will head distribution and Lia Buman moves over to become president of acquisitions.
Current Focus Features president of publicity and evp of marketing Adriene Bowles will retain her current title and responsibilities, as will production president Jeb Brody.
Former [link=co...
- 10/15/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Getting quickly down to business, new Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel has named key members of his management team. As expected, he's bringing with him several colleagues from FilmDistrict, the independent distribution company he founded with Graham King and Tim Headington. They include chief operating officer Adrian Alperovich, marketing chief Christine Birch, distribution head Jim Orr and acquisitions president Lia Buman (they will keep the same titles at Focus). Executives from Focus who have been asked to stay include president of publicity and executive vp marketing Adriene Bowles and president of production Jeb Brody, who is working on Fifty Shades
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- 10/15/2013
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film Independent, the Los Angeles-based non-profit that produces the Spirit Awards and the Los Angeles Film Festival, has elected its new officers: Bill Condon, president; Rodrigo Garcia, vp; Alan Poul, secretary; and Stephanie Allain, treasurer.
All four also are joining the board of directors.
"Getting independent movies made and seen is always a struggle, and we've entered a particularly difficult period. I look forward to working with Rodrigo, Alan, Stephanie, and our extraordinary board to help Film Independent fulfill its mission of promoting the cause of independent filmmaking in this country," Condon said.
Other new board members are Joe Drake, DeVon Franklin, Sue Kroll, David Linde and Ted Mundorff.
Previous officers Vondie Curtis Hall (president), Michael Helfant (vp), Tom Ortenberg (treasurer), and Kasi Lemmons (secretary) remain on the board.
Other members of the board are: Film Independent's current board is comprised of the following industry leaders: Randy Barbato, Adriene Bowles,...
All four also are joining the board of directors.
"Getting independent movies made and seen is always a struggle, and we've entered a particularly difficult period. I look forward to working with Rodrigo, Alan, Stephanie, and our extraordinary board to help Film Independent fulfill its mission of promoting the cause of independent filmmaking in this country," Condon said.
Other new board members are Joe Drake, DeVon Franklin, Sue Kroll, David Linde and Ted Mundorff.
Previous officers Vondie Curtis Hall (president), Michael Helfant (vp), Tom Ortenberg (treasurer), and Kasi Lemmons (secretary) remain on the board.
Other members of the board are: Film Independent's current board is comprised of the following industry leaders: Randy Barbato, Adriene Bowles,...
- 12/4/2009
- by By Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NEW YORK -- Focus Features has upped longtime domestic publicity head Adriene Bowles to president of worldwide publicity and executive vp marketing.
Focus CEO James Schamus said Thursday that Bowles, who was executive vp publicity and marketing, will expand her duties to work with Focus Features International to plan overseas publicity initiatives.
Bowles will continue working with NBC Universal specialty division Focus and its genre film-oriented sister company Rogue Pictures, but she will take "a more proactive role in establishing, building and maintaining the companies' filmmaker and talent relationships," the company said.
Bowles was executive vp publicity and marketing for Universal Pictures specialty division USA Films and continued her role heading domestic publicity when USA was absorbed into Focus in spring 2002. She will remain based at Focus' Universal City offices.
As the company expanded with the launch of Rogue in March 2004, Bowles responsibilities grew. She will continue her work supervising regional publicity, promotion and street-team initiatives and the company's field marketing and publicity department.
Focus CEO James Schamus said Thursday that Bowles, who was executive vp publicity and marketing, will expand her duties to work with Focus Features International to plan overseas publicity initiatives.
Bowles will continue working with NBC Universal specialty division Focus and its genre film-oriented sister company Rogue Pictures, but she will take "a more proactive role in establishing, building and maintaining the companies' filmmaker and talent relationships," the company said.
Bowles was executive vp publicity and marketing for Universal Pictures specialty division USA Films and continued her role heading domestic publicity when USA was absorbed into Focus in spring 2002. She will remain based at Focus' Universal City offices.
As the company expanded with the launch of Rogue in March 2004, Bowles responsibilities grew. She will continue her work supervising regional publicity, promotion and street-team initiatives and the company's field marketing and publicity department.
- 2/23/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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