Scandal at a film festival is usually generated by provocative auteurs or loose-lipped actors stirring up drama at press conferences. Last weekend’s laid-back Sonoma International Film Festival, held in the heart of California wine country, was a different story.
Numerous indie film players spotted Sundance Film Festival director Eugene Hernandez at the event, alongside his two predecessors in the role: John Cooper, who left in 2020, and Tabitha Jackson, who stepped down in 2022. All three were in town to screen films and mingle when the eye-popping news spread that Joana Vicente, CEO of Sundance, had resigned her post after less than three years. Surely these observers found the right pinot noir to pair with whispers about what Vicente’s exit means for Sundance — the 40-year-old nonprofit founded by Robert Redford, known in global cinema circles as a destination for artistic discovery. So, what the hell happened?
Vicente arrived at Sundance...
Numerous indie film players spotted Sundance Film Festival director Eugene Hernandez at the event, alongside his two predecessors in the role: John Cooper, who left in 2020, and Tabitha Jackson, who stepped down in 2022. All three were in town to screen films and mingle when the eye-popping news spread that Joana Vicente, CEO of Sundance, had resigned her post after less than three years. Surely these observers found the right pinot noir to pair with whispers about what Vicente’s exit means for Sundance — the 40-year-old nonprofit founded by Robert Redford, known in global cinema circles as a destination for artistic discovery. So, what the hell happened?
Vicente arrived at Sundance...
- 4/1/2024
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Amanda Kelso, the new acting CEO of the Sundance Institute, told the Sundance community that she is focused on the “long term sustainability and growth” of the non-profit well into the 21st century.
“As we look to the future of the Sundance Institute, I am filled with both pride and humility as I take on the role of acting CEO,” Kelso said in a statement shared with press. “It is an immense honor to return to lead during this pivotal time for arts organizations and, more specifically, independent storytellers. I believe in the power of Sundance and its ongoing impact in nurturing our mission-based work. This work is dedicated to the discovery and development of independent artists and connecting them with audiences around the world.”
Joana Vicente, who joined Sundance from TIFF back in 2021, announced Friday that she will be stepping down, with Kelso coming aboard in April and Vicente...
“As we look to the future of the Sundance Institute, I am filled with both pride and humility as I take on the role of acting CEO,” Kelso said in a statement shared with press. “It is an immense honor to return to lead during this pivotal time for arts organizations and, more specifically, independent storytellers. I believe in the power of Sundance and its ongoing impact in nurturing our mission-based work. This work is dedicated to the discovery and development of independent artists and connecting them with audiences around the world.”
Joana Vicente, who joined Sundance from TIFF back in 2021, announced Friday that she will be stepping down, with Kelso coming aboard in April and Vicente...
- 3/22/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Joana Vicente has stepped down as CEO of the Sundance Institute.
The news will come as a shock to the global independent film community, as Vicente served under three years in a plum role she took after years in leadership at the Toronto International Film Festival. Amanda Kelso, a four-year member of the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees, has been named acting CEO in her place.
“After two-and-a-half inspiring years, I have made the decision to begin a new chapter and will be moving on,” Vicente wrote in a Friday memo to colleagues. “Over the past six years, I have had the privilege of leading two of the most culturally significant organizations for independent film in North America through some of the most challenging times for our industry … [and] have decided that it is time to explore new opportunities and adventures while I continue my lifelong passion for supporting transformative storytelling.
The news will come as a shock to the global independent film community, as Vicente served under three years in a plum role she took after years in leadership at the Toronto International Film Festival. Amanda Kelso, a four-year member of the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees, has been named acting CEO in her place.
“After two-and-a-half inspiring years, I have made the decision to begin a new chapter and will be moving on,” Vicente wrote in a Friday memo to colleagues. “Over the past six years, I have had the privilege of leading two of the most culturally significant organizations for independent film in North America through some of the most challenging times for our industry … [and] have decided that it is time to explore new opportunities and adventures while I continue my lifelong passion for supporting transformative storytelling.
- 3/22/2024
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Joana Vicente is departing the Sundance Institute, where she has overseen the nonprofit and its storied film festival since late 2021. Sundance board member Amanda Kelso will step in as acting CEO through April, while Vicente will remain as an adviser to Kelso and the board through June.
Vicente came to Sundance from the Toronto International Film Festival, and arrived as Covid had pushed the festival online for 2021 and again in 2022. During her tenure, she spearheaded a hybrid format for 2023 and 2024, in which films would be viewed in person as well as online. Like most festivals, fundraising has been challenging due to the pandemic followed by pressures in the larger economy. In June, the Institute laid off 11 staffers. Vicente has also been under pressure to set the festival up for the long term and shape its vision amid a challenging landscape for independent film.
“I look back at the significant work...
Vicente came to Sundance from the Toronto International Film Festival, and arrived as Covid had pushed the festival online for 2021 and again in 2022. During her tenure, she spearheaded a hybrid format for 2023 and 2024, in which films would be viewed in person as well as online. Like most festivals, fundraising has been challenging due to the pandemic followed by pressures in the larger economy. In June, the Institute laid off 11 staffers. Vicente has also been under pressure to set the festival up for the long term and shape its vision amid a challenging landscape for independent film.
“I look back at the significant work...
- 3/22/2024
- by Aaron Couch and Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sundance Institute CEO Joana Vicente is stepping down from her role as CEO after two-and-a-half years on the job, the non-profit organization announced Friday.
Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees has appointed board member Amanda Kelso as acting CEO while the institute launches a search for a new CEO. Kelso is returning to the organization after formerly serving as acting CEO in 2021 before Vicente was picked for the job after the departure of long-time CEO Keri Putnam. She’ll transition into the role in April, and Vicente will stay on in an advisory role through June.
“After two and half inspiring years, I have made the decision to begin a new chapter and will be moving on from my role as CEO of Sundance Institute,” Vicente wrote in a memo shared by Sundance. “Over the past six years, I have had the privilege of leading two of the most culturally...
Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees has appointed board member Amanda Kelso as acting CEO while the institute launches a search for a new CEO. Kelso is returning to the organization after formerly serving as acting CEO in 2021 before Vicente was picked for the job after the departure of long-time CEO Keri Putnam. She’ll transition into the role in April, and Vicente will stay on in an advisory role through June.
“After two and half inspiring years, I have made the decision to begin a new chapter and will be moving on from my role as CEO of Sundance Institute,” Vicente wrote in a memo shared by Sundance. “Over the past six years, I have had the privilege of leading two of the most culturally...
- 3/22/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Management and production company 2Am is bolstering its finance and sales division with the hire of former Sundance Catalyst executive Julia Nelson.
Nelson will report to former WME & Endeavor Content exec Christine D’Souza Gelb who oversees the sales arm of 2Am.
2Am will be launching sales on two titles at the upcoming Sundance Film Festival: Sam and Andy Zuchero’s Love Me starring Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun, and produced by 2Am, ShivHans, and AgX; and Haley Elizabeth Anderson’s Tendaberry, produced by Dweck and Flies Collective. 2Am is co-repping worldwide rights on both projects with WME, where the filmmakers are also represented.
The company, which is a producer on Celine Song’s Golden Globe nominee Past Lives, has previously repped Sing J. Lee’s Accidental Getaway Driver, Andrew Semans’ Resurrection, and Christopher Makoto Yogi’s I Was A Simple Man.
Nelson joins the company after six years at...
Nelson will report to former WME & Endeavor Content exec Christine D’Souza Gelb who oversees the sales arm of 2Am.
2Am will be launching sales on two titles at the upcoming Sundance Film Festival: Sam and Andy Zuchero’s Love Me starring Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun, and produced by 2Am, ShivHans, and AgX; and Haley Elizabeth Anderson’s Tendaberry, produced by Dweck and Flies Collective. 2Am is co-repping worldwide rights on both projects with WME, where the filmmakers are also represented.
The company, which is a producer on Celine Song’s Golden Globe nominee Past Lives, has previously repped Sing J. Lee’s Accidental Getaway Driver, Andrew Semans’ Resurrection, and Christopher Makoto Yogi’s I Was A Simple Man.
Nelson joins the company after six years at...
- 12/15/2023
- by Andreas Wiseman and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
IndieWire proudly announces that Deputy Managing Editor Ryan Lattanzio will join Editor-at-Large Anne Thompson as co-host of our long-running, popular weekly podcast series, “Screen Talk.” Launched in 2014, “Screen Talk” is a weekly dive behind the scenes of the latest industry news while debating and discussing new film and television releases. Thompson previously co-hosted “Screen Talk” with Eric Kohn, who joined filmmaker Harmony Korine’s multidisciplinary design collective Edglrd earlier this fall.
“It’s been a lot of fun to see Ryan grow his career and his voice at IndieWire,” said IndieWire Editor-in-Chief Dana Harris-Bridson. “I’m looking forward to hearing what he brings to ‘Screen Talk’ and his longtime partnership with Anne.”
“I’m thrilled to take the reins of co-hosting ‘Screen Talk’ alongside Anne, my friend and mentor of many years,” Lattanzio said. “Eric shaped such a great legacy for the podcast with his sharp week-by-week analyses and insights.
“It’s been a lot of fun to see Ryan grow his career and his voice at IndieWire,” said IndieWire Editor-in-Chief Dana Harris-Bridson. “I’m looking forward to hearing what he brings to ‘Screen Talk’ and his longtime partnership with Anne.”
“I’m thrilled to take the reins of co-hosting ‘Screen Talk’ alongside Anne, my friend and mentor of many years,” Lattanzio said. “Eric shaped such a great legacy for the podcast with his sharp week-by-week analyses and insights.
- 10/11/2023
- by IndieWire Staff
- Indiewire
Documentary veterans Natalie Bullock Brown, Kirsten Johnson, Mary Lampson and Jacqueline Olive are the inaugural documentary film fellows for the documentary film in the public interest research initiative by Harvard’s Shorenstein Center.
As the first cohort of doc film fellows, the foursome will join the center for the fall 2023 semester. There, each fellow will conduct research and do public education activities about questions facing the documentary film field and civic information.
Led by Shorenstein Center’s director Nancy Gibbs and doc filmmaker Sara Archambault, the initiative, which was established in March, will work to examine the challenges facing the documentary field and their impacts on civic life and information.
“In this challenging moment for media and our information ecosystem, we are excited that the Shorenstein Center can provide the support and infrastructure to drive renewed and creative thinking about complex issues in the documentary film space,” says Gibbs.
Archambault...
As the first cohort of doc film fellows, the foursome will join the center for the fall 2023 semester. There, each fellow will conduct research and do public education activities about questions facing the documentary film field and civic information.
Led by Shorenstein Center’s director Nancy Gibbs and doc filmmaker Sara Archambault, the initiative, which was established in March, will work to examine the challenges facing the documentary field and their impacts on civic life and information.
“In this challenging moment for media and our information ecosystem, we are excited that the Shorenstein Center can provide the support and infrastructure to drive renewed and creative thinking about complex issues in the documentary film space,” says Gibbs.
Archambault...
- 9/5/2023
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety Film + TV
As AMC Theatres enters into a critical 2023, the movie theater chain has named some indie cred to its board of directors. Keri Putnam, the former CEO of the Sundance Institute, will join the AMC board at the start of the new year, the company announced Thursday.
Putnam, who exited Sundance in 2021, will join the board alongside another newcomer, global information technology executive Denise “Dee” Clark. Additionally, Lee Wittlinger, who has been an AMC director since 2018, will resign from his position on the board at the end of the year. His private investment firm Silver Lake sold its equity stake in AMC back in January 2021.
With both Putnam and Clark joining the board, three of AMC’s nine directors will now be female, whereas currently, just one of its eight members is a woman.
Though AMC stock had risen by market close on Thursday and was trading at 4.14, the stock fell...
Putnam, who exited Sundance in 2021, will join the board alongside another newcomer, global information technology executive Denise “Dee” Clark. Additionally, Lee Wittlinger, who has been an AMC director since 2018, will resign from his position on the board at the end of the year. His private investment firm Silver Lake sold its equity stake in AMC back in January 2021.
With both Putnam and Clark joining the board, three of AMC’s nine directors will now be female, whereas currently, just one of its eight members is a woman.
Though AMC stock had risen by market close on Thursday and was trading at 4.14, the stock fell...
- 12/29/2022
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
AMC Entertainment has rejiggered is board, announcing the election of two new directors and one who is exiting.
The former Sundance Institute chief and Miramax production president Keri Putman, a big advocate for independent film, as well as Dee Clark, who has worked in information technology at Hasbro, Mattel, Warner Music and Apple, will join as directors effective Jan. 1 for a one-year term, up for reelection in 2023. Lee Wittlinger of Silver Lake, on the board since 2018, will resign, as is general practice following the firm’s exit from its investment in the company in Jan. of 2021.
“With the appointments of Ms. Clark and Ms. Putnam, along with Mr. Wittlinger’s resignation, AMC has made significant progress in reaching its diversity goals,” the company said. Three of AMC’s nine directors will be women, versus one of eight currently.
Putnam founded and runs Putnam Pictures, to produce film and television from...
The former Sundance Institute chief and Miramax production president Keri Putman, a big advocate for independent film, as well as Dee Clark, who has worked in information technology at Hasbro, Mattel, Warner Music and Apple, will join as directors effective Jan. 1 for a one-year term, up for reelection in 2023. Lee Wittlinger of Silver Lake, on the board since 2018, will resign, as is general practice following the firm’s exit from its investment in the company in Jan. of 2021.
“With the appointments of Ms. Clark and Ms. Putnam, along with Mr. Wittlinger’s resignation, AMC has made significant progress in reaching its diversity goals,” the company said. Three of AMC’s nine directors will be women, versus one of eight currently.
Putnam founded and runs Putnam Pictures, to produce film and television from...
- 12/29/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Ahead of what will be a critical 2023 for the company, AMC Entertainment, the owner of the AMC Theatres chain, is shaking up its board of directors.
Lee Wittlinger, a managing director at investment firm Silver Lake, will step down from the board, with two new members set to be added: Former Sundance chief Keri Putnam, and veteran tech executive and corporate board member Dee Clark.
The company announced the board refresh Thursday afternoon.
Putnam and Clark will serve as Class III directors until the company’s 2023 annual meeting, when they will stand for election. The company notes that with the new changes, three of the chain’s nine directors will be female, up from one in eight directors previously.
Silver Lake sold its stake in the company last year in the throes of the early “memestock” rally, netting gains of nearly 300 million for the investment firm.
Ahead of what will be a critical 2023 for the company, AMC Entertainment, the owner of the AMC Theatres chain, is shaking up its board of directors.
Lee Wittlinger, a managing director at investment firm Silver Lake, will step down from the board, with two new members set to be added: Former Sundance chief Keri Putnam, and veteran tech executive and corporate board member Dee Clark.
The company announced the board refresh Thursday afternoon.
Putnam and Clark will serve as Class III directors until the company’s 2023 annual meeting, when they will stand for election. The company notes that with the new changes, three of the chain’s nine directors will be female, up from one in eight directors previously.
Silver Lake sold its stake in the company last year in the throes of the early “memestock” rally, netting gains of nearly 300 million for the investment firm.
- 12/29/2022
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
The Sundance Institute has added three new names to its board of trustees: Lulu Wang, Patrick Gaspard and Shripriya Mahesh. The trio will help guide and advise the nonprofit on its endeavors, including the prolific filmmaker labs and annual film festival.
Wang is an award winning director, producer, and writer behind titles like The Farewell. Gaspard is president and CEO of the think tank Center for American Progress. Mahesh is a filmmaker and the founding partner of venture capital firm Spero Ventures, a technology executive.
“The new trustees bring an invaluable depth of experience in government and civic engagement, technology and digital product development, and deep knowledge of the media, entertainment, and storytelling landscape,” said Sundance Institute board chair Ebs Burnough.
“We are honored to have Lulu, Patrick and Shripriya join us as Trustees on the Board of Sundance Institute. Their vision and...
The Sundance Institute has added three new names to its board of trustees: Lulu Wang, Patrick Gaspard and Shripriya Mahesh. The trio will help guide and advise the nonprofit on its endeavors, including the prolific filmmaker labs and annual film festival.
Wang is an award winning director, producer, and writer behind titles like The Farewell. Gaspard is president and CEO of the think tank Center for American Progress. Mahesh is a filmmaker and the founding partner of venture capital firm Spero Ventures, a technology executive.
“The new trustees bring an invaluable depth of experience in government and civic engagement, technology and digital product development, and deep knowledge of the media, entertainment, and storytelling landscape,” said Sundance Institute board chair Ebs Burnough.
“We are honored to have Lulu, Patrick and Shripriya join us as Trustees on the Board of Sundance Institute. Their vision and...
- 11/10/2022
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Eugene Hernandez has been named director of the Sundance Film Festival and head of public programming, following the departure of Tabitha Jackson in June.
Hernandez joins the Sundance Insitute from Film at Lincoln Center, where he has overseen the New York Film Festival for the past three years. He will depart after this year’s festival, which runs from Sept. 30 to Oct 16. Prior to Flc, Hernandez — who serves on the board of advisors for SXSW and SeriesFest, among others —was the co-founder and editor-in-chief of IndieWire, the indie-focused film publication.
“Sundance’s decades of leadership, championing artistic discovery and independent expression, was a landmark catalyst in my life. Nearly 30 years ago, looking for direction and curious, I went to the Sundance Film Festival for the first time. I immediately connected with its mission, and it changed my life,” said Hernandez, who is also a member-at-large of the Academy.
Eugene Hernandez has been named director of the Sundance Film Festival and head of public programming, following the departure of Tabitha Jackson in June.
Hernandez joins the Sundance Insitute from Film at Lincoln Center, where he has overseen the New York Film Festival for the past three years. He will depart after this year’s festival, which runs from Sept. 30 to Oct 16. Prior to Flc, Hernandez — who serves on the board of advisors for SXSW and SeriesFest, among others —was the co-founder and editor-in-chief of IndieWire, the indie-focused film publication.
“Sundance’s decades of leadership, championing artistic discovery and independent expression, was a landmark catalyst in my life. Nearly 30 years ago, looking for direction and curious, I went to the Sundance Film Festival for the first time. I immediately connected with its mission, and it changed my life,” said Hernandez, who is also a member-at-large of the Academy.
- 9/7/2022
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
The Sundance Insitute is detailing plans for the planned hybrid format of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.
The in-person festival will return to Utah, running from Jan. 19 to 29, while films will begin to screen online starting Jan. 24. The on-demand, online offerings will include all 2023 competition titles. These are films programmed in the U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Documentary, World Cinema Dramatic, World Cinema Documentary, and Next sections — as well as work across other sections of the feature programs, and episodic and short films. The 2023 award–winning films will screen both in person and online on Jan. 28 and 29.
The 2023 hybrid format comes after an all-virtual festival in 2021 and 2022, the latter happening after an 11th-hour switch due to the then rise of Covid-19 cases due to the Omicron variant.
Sundance also outlined Covid-19 safety precautions for the 2023 fest. All festival staff and volunteers will be required...
The Sundance Insitute is detailing plans for the planned hybrid format of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.
The in-person festival will return to Utah, running from Jan. 19 to 29, while films will begin to screen online starting Jan. 24. The on-demand, online offerings will include all 2023 competition titles. These are films programmed in the U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Documentary, World Cinema Dramatic, World Cinema Documentary, and Next sections — as well as work across other sections of the feature programs, and episodic and short films. The 2023 award–winning films will screen both in person and online on Jan. 28 and 29.
The 2023 hybrid format comes after an all-virtual festival in 2021 and 2022, the latter happening after an 11th-hour switch due to the then rise of Covid-19 cases due to the Omicron variant.
Sundance also outlined Covid-19 safety precautions for the 2023 fest. All festival staff and volunteers will be required...
- 8/30/2022
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 18th edition of the Camden Intl. Film Festival, kicking off Sept. 15, will feature a handful of award-contending documentaries fresh off showings at Telluride and the Toronto film festivals. The Maine-based festival will unfold in a hybrid format, with both in-person events over a three-day period concluding Sept. 18, and online screenings available from Sept. 15 to Sept. 25 to audiences across North America.
This year’s Ciff highlights include the U.S. premiere of Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen’s Netflix release “In Her Hands,” which follows one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors during the months leading up to the Taliban takeover the country in 2021; Chris Smith’s “Sr.,” centered on the life and career of Robert Downey Sr. and his relationship to his son, Robert Downey Jr.; and Steve James’ “A Compassionate Spy,” about Manhattan Project physicist, Soviet spy and University of Chicago alum Theodore Hall. Each of the three...
This year’s Ciff highlights include the U.S. premiere of Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen’s Netflix release “In Her Hands,” which follows one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors during the months leading up to the Taliban takeover the country in 2021; Chris Smith’s “Sr.,” centered on the life and career of Robert Downey Sr. and his relationship to his son, Robert Downey Jr.; and Steve James’ “A Compassionate Spy,” about Manhattan Project physicist, Soviet spy and University of Chicago alum Theodore Hall. Each of the three...
- 8/22/2022
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety Film + TV
Among the pandemic’s many side effects, it created a unique capacity to force even the most august institutions to experience identity crises and growing pains. And in the film industry, perhaps no organization has felt this syndrome more acutely than the Sundance Institute.
“We have to look back at how do we sustain Sundance, for the future,” Michelle Satter, director of Sundance Institute’s Feature Film Program, told me. “We’re in a moment of stepping back and making tough decisions. You have to prioritize, and build back.”
After longtime festival director John Cooper left in 2020, Sundance veteran Tabitha Jackson took over; she stepped down June 7 and the festival now seeks a new leader. Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam left in 2021; Joana Vicente, who helped guide the Toronto International Film Festival during the pandemic, is now tasked with putting Sundance on its feet. Two years of a virtual Sundance...
“We have to look back at how do we sustain Sundance, for the future,” Michelle Satter, director of Sundance Institute’s Feature Film Program, told me. “We’re in a moment of stepping back and making tough decisions. You have to prioritize, and build back.”
After longtime festival director John Cooper left in 2020, Sundance veteran Tabitha Jackson took over; she stepped down June 7 and the festival now seeks a new leader. Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam left in 2021; Joana Vicente, who helped guide the Toronto International Film Festival during the pandemic, is now tasked with putting Sundance on its feet. Two years of a virtual Sundance...
- 6/23/2022
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Tabitha Jackson is departing from the Sundance Film Festival in her role as director, the festival announced today. CEO Joana Vicente is leading a search for a new festival director, while director of programming Kim Yutani has joined the senior leadership team of the Sundance Institute.
The news comes just over two years after Jackson replaced longtime festival director John Cooper, who worked in that capacity for over a decade. Jackson was the first woman, the first person of color, and the first person from outside the United States to hold the position at the festival. She is a Sundance veteran who headed up the festival’s Documentary Film Program and advocated for adventurous forms of non-fiction storytelling. She will depart the festival following the latest edition of Sundance Film Festival: London 2022, which takes place June 9- 12.
No specific reason was provided for Jackson’s abrupt departure, though rumors of...
The news comes just over two years after Jackson replaced longtime festival director John Cooper, who worked in that capacity for over a decade. Jackson was the first woman, the first person of color, and the first person from outside the United States to hold the position at the festival. She is a Sundance veteran who headed up the festival’s Documentary Film Program and advocated for adventurous forms of non-fiction storytelling. She will depart the festival following the latest edition of Sundance Film Festival: London 2022, which takes place June 9- 12.
No specific reason was provided for Jackson’s abrupt departure, though rumors of...
- 6/7/2022
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
Click here to read the full article.
The Sundance Institute has announced that film festival director Tabitha Jackson will be stepping down after two years at the post.
Jackson will depart as the director of the Sundance Film Festival and public programming following the upcoming Sundance Film Festival: London. Today’s announcement was made by Sundance Institute CEO Joana Vicente, who will be heading the festival’s development and planning in the interim.
A public search, led by Vicente, is underway to find Jackson’s replacement.
Also announced today was the promotion of director of programming Kim Yutani to the institute’s senior leadership team. Yutani, who is entering her fifth year leading the festival’s programming, will now manage industry and artist relations.
Jackson was named to her post in 2020, taking over for John Cooper, who had been leading the festival for 11 years. She had the difficult job of...
The Sundance Institute has announced that film festival director Tabitha Jackson will be stepping down after two years at the post.
Jackson will depart as the director of the Sundance Film Festival and public programming following the upcoming Sundance Film Festival: London. Today’s announcement was made by Sundance Institute CEO Joana Vicente, who will be heading the festival’s development and planning in the interim.
A public search, led by Vicente, is underway to find Jackson’s replacement.
Also announced today was the promotion of director of programming Kim Yutani to the institute’s senior leadership team. Yutani, who is entering her fifth year leading the festival’s programming, will now manage industry and artist relations.
Jackson was named to her post in 2020, taking over for John Cooper, who had been leading the festival for 11 years. She had the difficult job of...
- 6/7/2022
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Steve Gravestock, longtime Toronto Film Festival programmer of Canadian and Nordic films, is set to step down.
The TIFF senior programmer will leave the festival at the end of 2022. “It was always a thrill to see Canadian filmmakers — from every corner of the country — bring our stories to the screen,” Gravestock said in a statement on Monday.
His retirement from TIFF comes amid a continuing programming shakeup in Toronto, with Diana Sanchez, senior director of film, stepping down at the end of 2021, and Anita Lee recently being named as the new chief programming officer.
Lee along with Kelly Boutsalis, associate international programmer of Canadian features, and Ravi Srinivasan, senior manager of festival programming, will take the lead on TIFF’s Canadian film programming.
In addition, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey was promoted to the top post at Toronto after fellow co-head Joana Vicente stepped...
Steve Gravestock, longtime Toronto Film Festival programmer of Canadian and Nordic films, is set to step down.
The TIFF senior programmer will leave the festival at the end of 2022. “It was always a thrill to see Canadian filmmakers — from every corner of the country — bring our stories to the screen,” Gravestock said in a statement on Monday.
His retirement from TIFF comes amid a continuing programming shakeup in Toronto, with Diana Sanchez, senior director of film, stepping down at the end of 2021, and Anita Lee recently being named as the new chief programming officer.
Lee along with Kelly Boutsalis, associate international programmer of Canadian features, and Ravi Srinivasan, senior manager of festival programming, will take the lead on TIFF’s Canadian film programming.
In addition, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey was promoted to the top post at Toronto after fellow co-head Joana Vicente stepped...
- 6/6/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The search for a new chief executive officer at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has escalated in recent weeks, multiple sources familiar with the process tell Variety.
Months ago, the organization behind the Oscars hired management consulting firm Korn Ferry to scout replacements for outgoing CEO Dawn Hudson, who previously announced she would step down by May 2023. Insiders close to AMPAS say she could depart sooner if her position is filled. Korn Ferry, known for identifying board members and C-suite executives for global corporations, has been reaching out to a number of qualified candidates of late.
Names being floated for the role include insider Bill Kramer, director and president of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures; David White, the former executive director of SAG-AFTRA who stepped down last May after 12 years at the guild; and Keri Putnam, the former longtime Sundance CEO whose institutional knowledge of nonprofits...
Months ago, the organization behind the Oscars hired management consulting firm Korn Ferry to scout replacements for outgoing CEO Dawn Hudson, who previously announced she would step down by May 2023. Insiders close to AMPAS say she could depart sooner if her position is filled. Korn Ferry, known for identifying board members and C-suite executives for global corporations, has been reaching out to a number of qualified candidates of late.
Names being floated for the role include insider Bill Kramer, director and president of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures; David White, the former executive director of SAG-AFTRA who stepped down last May after 12 years at the guild; and Keri Putnam, the former longtime Sundance CEO whose institutional knowledge of nonprofits...
- 5/3/2022
- by Matt Donnelly and Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Festival
“Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral” director Mike Newell and actor Jason Wong are launching the Kingston International Film Festival (Kiff) to support independent film makers in a post-pandemic world. Taking place June 24-26, the festival is a 50:50 partnership between Blue Elephant Films and Rose Theatre which aims to address a decline in the independent film industry by establishing a new platform for emerging talent and creating opportunities which will link new filmmakers and industry experts. Kiff also received early support from Oscar-winning actor Dame Vanessa Redgrave and “Star Trek” actor Marina Sirtis.
The Festival announcement comes in the wake of a BFI report which revealed that investment into the independent film industry in the U.K. has dropped 45% and that just twenty-two films accounted for 78% of UK film production spend. Kiff will be headed by festival directors David Cunningham and...
“Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral” director Mike Newell and actor Jason Wong are launching the Kingston International Film Festival (Kiff) to support independent film makers in a post-pandemic world. Taking place June 24-26, the festival is a 50:50 partnership between Blue Elephant Films and Rose Theatre which aims to address a decline in the independent film industry by establishing a new platform for emerging talent and creating opportunities which will link new filmmakers and industry experts. Kiff also received early support from Oscar-winning actor Dame Vanessa Redgrave and “Star Trek” actor Marina Sirtis.
The Festival announcement comes in the wake of a BFI report which revealed that investment into the independent film industry in the U.K. has dropped 45% and that just twenty-two films accounted for 78% of UK film production spend. Kiff will be headed by festival directors David Cunningham and...
- 1/25/2022
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
‘Run Rabbit Run’ Adds Cast
Damon Herriman and Greta Scacchi have joined Sarah Snook in Run Rabbit Run, the horror-thriller that commenced production this week in South Australia and Victoria. Further cast includes Trevor Jamieson, Neil Meville, Naomi Rukavina, Georgina Naidu, Genevieve Morris, Katherine Slattery and newcomer Sunny Whelan. In the movie, Snook plays a fertility doctor whose firm grasp on the cycle of life is put to the test as her young daughter begins to exhibit increasingly strange behavior. Daina Reid is directing the project. Hannah Kent wrote the script from an original idea developed with Carver Films, with Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw of Carver Films producing. XYZ Films is executive producing, financing and handling world sales.
Spanish Soccer Piracy Case
Mediapro, the Spanish media outfit that controls the majority of soccer rights in the country, is calling for a six-year jail term for the creator of Rojadirecta.
Damon Herriman and Greta Scacchi have joined Sarah Snook in Run Rabbit Run, the horror-thriller that commenced production this week in South Australia and Victoria. Further cast includes Trevor Jamieson, Neil Meville, Naomi Rukavina, Georgina Naidu, Genevieve Morris, Katherine Slattery and newcomer Sunny Whelan. In the movie, Snook plays a fertility doctor whose firm grasp on the cycle of life is put to the test as her young daughter begins to exhibit increasingly strange behavior. Daina Reid is directing the project. Hannah Kent wrote the script from an original idea developed with Carver Films, with Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw of Carver Films producing. XYZ Films is executive producing, financing and handling world sales.
Spanish Soccer Piracy Case
Mediapro, the Spanish media outfit that controls the majority of soccer rights in the country, is calling for a six-year jail term for the creator of Rojadirecta.
- 1/25/2022
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
After three years as the Executive Director and Co-Head of the Toronto International Film Festival, Joana Vicente is heading to the Sundance Institute as their new CEO. She will start her new job at the beginning of November, splitting her time between Sundance’s office in New York, Los Angeles and Park City, Ut.
Vicente succeeds CEO Keri Putnam, who stepped down earlier this year and will oversee the entire Sundance media and arts nonprofit organization which includes its year-round artist programs, the Sundance Film Festival, Sundance Collab, public and field-building programs, advancement, its historic commitment to inclusion and equity in all its work, as well as advancing the Institute’s advocacy work. Vicente will depart TIFF on Oct. 31.
Vicente will report to the Sundance board and work with the Institute’s artists, funders, industry, donors, and national and international partners, and oversee a year-round staff of 200 with an additional seasonal staff of 250.
Vicente,...
Vicente succeeds CEO Keri Putnam, who stepped down earlier this year and will oversee the entire Sundance media and arts nonprofit organization which includes its year-round artist programs, the Sundance Film Festival, Sundance Collab, public and field-building programs, advancement, its historic commitment to inclusion and equity in all its work, as well as advancing the Institute’s advocacy work. Vicente will depart TIFF on Oct. 31.
Vicente will report to the Sundance board and work with the Institute’s artists, funders, industry, donors, and national and international partners, and oversee a year-round staff of 200 with an additional seasonal staff of 250.
Vicente,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
After spending three years as Toronto International Film Festival’s executive director, Joana Vicente is leaving her post to join the Sundance Institute as its CEO.
She is succeeding long-time executive Keri Putnam, who stepped down earlier this year. In her new role, Vicente will oversee all areas of the Institute, including the annual Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah.
She will report to Sundance’s board of directors and work with key stakeholders, including artists, funders and industry donors, as well as lead a cadre of 200 year-round employees and an additional 250 seasonal staffers. Vicente begins her position in early November, working between the Institute’s Park City, Los Angeles, and New York City offices.
“This was a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder, Robert Redford,...
She is succeeding long-time executive Keri Putnam, who stepped down earlier this year. In her new role, Vicente will oversee all areas of the Institute, including the annual Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah.
She will report to Sundance’s board of directors and work with key stakeholders, including artists, funders and industry donors, as well as lead a cadre of 200 year-round employees and an additional 250 seasonal staffers. Vicente begins her position in early November, working between the Institute’s Park City, Los Angeles, and New York City offices.
“This was a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder, Robert Redford,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
It’s the changing of the film festival guard as Toronto International Film Festival co-head and executive director Joana Vicente steps down from her TIFF role after three years to return to her roots in American independent film. She will take over as CEO of the Sundance Institute, succeeding influential CEO Keri Putnam, who exited earlier this year after 10 years. Vicente’s last day at TIFF will be October 31, and she will begin her role at the start of November, working between the Institute’s Park City, Los Angeles, and New York City offices.
The search for her replacement was led by Sundance Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Chair-Elect Ebs Burnough. In a statement, the board said the hiring resulted from “a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder,...
The search for her replacement was led by Sundance Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Chair-Elect Ebs Burnough. In a statement, the board said the hiring resulted from “a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
It’s the changing of the film festival guard as Toronto International Film Festival co-head and executive director Joana Vicente steps down from her TIFF role after three years to return to her roots in American independent film. She will take over as CEO of the Sundance Institute, succeeding influential CEO Keri Putnam, who exited earlier this year after 10 years. Vicente’s last day at TIFF will be October 31, and she will begin her role at the start of November, working between the Institute’s Park City, Los Angeles, and New York City offices.
The search for her replacement was led by Sundance Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Chair-Elect Ebs Burnough. In a statement, the board said the hiring resulted from “a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder,...
The search for her replacement was led by Sundance Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Chair-Elect Ebs Burnough. In a statement, the board said the hiring resulted from “a very comprehensive search to find the right person who would continue to move us forward with a vision that aligns with the founding values of the Institute’s founder,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Immediately following premieres of their latest documentaries at major awards-circuit festivals, veteran filmmakers Liz Garbus, Robert Greene and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi headed to a small, remote village on the coast of Maine – two hours from a major airport.
The trio made the trek so they could attend the 17th edition of the Camden Intl. Film Festival. Each brought with them their Oscar-contending docus — “Becoming Cousteau,” “Procession” and “The Rescue,” respectively.
Fresh off showings at Telluride and the Toronto film fests, Garbus’ ‘Becoming Cousteau” kicked off Ciff, which was held in-person Sept. 16-19 and continues online until Sept. 26. During its first weekend, a who’s who of the docu community — including Oscar winner Alex Gibney, Cinetic Media founder and principal John Sloss, former Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam, NBC News Studios’ head of documentary Molly O’Brien and Pov executive director Erika Dilday — could be seen at various festival venues in...
The trio made the trek so they could attend the 17th edition of the Camden Intl. Film Festival. Each brought with them their Oscar-contending docus — “Becoming Cousteau,” “Procession” and “The Rescue,” respectively.
Fresh off showings at Telluride and the Toronto film fests, Garbus’ ‘Becoming Cousteau” kicked off Ciff, which was held in-person Sept. 16-19 and continues online until Sept. 26. During its first weekend, a who’s who of the docu community — including Oscar winner Alex Gibney, Cinetic Media founder and principal John Sloss, former Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam, NBC News Studios’ head of documentary Molly O’Brien and Pov executive director Erika Dilday — could be seen at various festival venues in...
- 9/20/2021
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety Film + TV
The Sundance Institute Board of Trustees today named Ebs Burnough to serve as the nonprofit’s next Chair, Board of Trustees, starting in October.
The org also announced today two new Vice Chairs of the Board: Walt Disney Studios President of Production Sean Bailey and Producer Gigi Pritzker, who will also begin their roles in October. Bailey was most recently the Chair of the 2021 Festival Task Force, is the Chair of the Board’s Marketing Committee and sits on the CEO Search Committee. Pritzker currently Chairs the Building Committee and sits on the Racial Equity and Justice Task Force and the CEO Search Committee.
Burnough was appointed as the Board’s Vice Chair in 2020, and will succeed Pat Mitchell when her term as Chair expires in October. She will continue on as a Trustee when Burnough assumes the role of Chair. Mitchell is a 25-year Trustee, serving as Chair of the Development Committee,...
The org also announced today two new Vice Chairs of the Board: Walt Disney Studios President of Production Sean Bailey and Producer Gigi Pritzker, who will also begin their roles in October. Bailey was most recently the Chair of the 2021 Festival Task Force, is the Chair of the Board’s Marketing Committee and sits on the CEO Search Committee. Pritzker currently Chairs the Building Committee and sits on the Racial Equity and Justice Task Force and the CEO Search Committee.
Burnough was appointed as the Board’s Vice Chair in 2020, and will succeed Pat Mitchell when her term as Chair expires in October. She will continue on as a Trustee when Burnough assumes the role of Chair. Mitchell is a 25-year Trustee, serving as Chair of the Development Committee,...
- 7/30/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Ebs Burnough has been elected to chair the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees, with Sean Bailey and Gigi Pritzker elected as vice-chairs.
Burnough will replace Pat Mitchell, whose term as chair will expire in October 2021 after being named to the post in 2014. Mitchell and Ebs co-chair the CEO search committee, with Bailey and Pritzker also on the committee. It is responsible for finding the organization’s successor to Keri Putnam, who announced her departure in March of this year.
Currently, Burnough serves as the chair of the Institute’s racial equity and justice task force. He is a former Obama-era White House advisor,...
Burnough will replace Pat Mitchell, whose term as chair will expire in October 2021 after being named to the post in 2014. Mitchell and Ebs co-chair the CEO search committee, with Bailey and Pritzker also on the committee. It is responsible for finding the organization’s successor to Keri Putnam, who announced her departure in March of this year.
Currently, Burnough serves as the chair of the Institute’s racial equity and justice task force. He is a former Obama-era White House advisor,...
- 7/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ebs Burnough has been elected to chair the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees, with Sean Bailey and Gigi Pritzker elected as vice-chairs.
Burnough will replace Pat Mitchell, whose term as chair will expire in October 2021 after being named to the post in 2014. Mitchell and Ebs co-chair the CEO search committee, with Bailey and Pritzker also on the committee. It is responsible for finding the organization’s successor to Keri Putnam, who announced her departure in March of this year.
Currently, Burnough serves as the chair of the Institute’s racial equity and justice task force. He is a former Obama-era White House advisor,...
Burnough will replace Pat Mitchell, whose term as chair will expire in October 2021 after being named to the post in 2014. Mitchell and Ebs co-chair the CEO search committee, with Bailey and Pritzker also on the committee. It is responsible for finding the organization’s successor to Keri Putnam, who announced her departure in March of this year.
Currently, Burnough serves as the chair of the Institute’s racial equity and justice task force. He is a former Obama-era White House advisor,...
- 7/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
IndieWire turns 25 this year. To mark the occasion, we’re running a series of essays about the future of everything we cover.
Halfway through the Cannes Film Festival, the streets erupted with activity. Drunken revelers crammed the streets just outside the Palais des Festival. Some took to mopeds, honking in unison and waving three-color flags as they belted out a triumphant cry: “Italia!”
That wasn’t a movie, of course. The European soccer championship provided yet another reminder of how little space the movies occupy in the broader cultural conversation, even at the world’s most prominent film festival.
And that was in France, where the government subsidizes the art form and cinema is celebrated as a key aspect of the nation’s history. Across the Atlantic, the situation is much more dire.
American film festivals faced an identity crisis even before the pandemic. An impenetrably dense media landscape, the proliferation of on-demand content,...
Halfway through the Cannes Film Festival, the streets erupted with activity. Drunken revelers crammed the streets just outside the Palais des Festival. Some took to mopeds, honking in unison and waving three-color flags as they belted out a triumphant cry: “Italia!”
That wasn’t a movie, of course. The European soccer championship provided yet another reminder of how little space the movies occupy in the broader cultural conversation, even at the world’s most prominent film festival.
And that was in France, where the government subsidizes the art form and cinema is celebrated as a key aspect of the nation’s history. Across the Atlantic, the situation is much more dire.
American film festivals faced an identity crisis even before the pandemic. An impenetrably dense media landscape, the proliferation of on-demand content,...
- 7/23/2021
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
The Sundance Film Festival has announced the dates for its 2022 edition, which will take place in-person and online in a hybrid format.
The festival will return to Park City, Utah, from January 20-30, 2022.
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond — for next year’s Sundance Film Festival,” the organization announced Thursday. “The 2022 Festival will take place in-person and online January 20-30. We are in the process of designing a safe and accessible Festival where our audiences and artists can come together to celebrate and discover new work, and each other. Mark your calendars and stay tuned: This summer we will have more details to help you craft your plan and arrange for any travel.”
This year’s Sundance Film Festival nabbed its largest-ever audience, despite the new, virtual format and shorter duration. The 2021 event took place a few days later than normal and...
The festival will return to Park City, Utah, from January 20-30, 2022.
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond — for next year’s Sundance Film Festival,” the organization announced Thursday. “The 2022 Festival will take place in-person and online January 20-30. We are in the process of designing a safe and accessible Festival where our audiences and artists can come together to celebrate and discover new work, and each other. Mark your calendars and stay tuned: This summer we will have more details to help you craft your plan and arrange for any travel.”
This year’s Sundance Film Festival nabbed its largest-ever audience, despite the new, virtual format and shorter duration. The 2021 event took place a few days later than normal and...
- 5/13/2021
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Organizers of the Sundance Film Festival said Thursday that next year’s fest will run January 20-30, 2022 and be a mix of in-person and virtual. The news comes after this year’s edition was all-virtual because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond,” the festival said in a release today, adding, “We are in the process of designing a safe and accessible Festival where our audiences and artists can come together to celebrate and discover new work, and each other.”
The 2021 edition, which ran January 28-February 3 and was the debut of new festival director Tabitha Jackson, actually drew a total audience more that twice as large than the typical in-person event in Park City. It had fewer feature films than usual, but because of the online nature it saw participation from all 50 states and 120 countries.
More than 70% of the...
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond,” the festival said in a release today, adding, “We are in the process of designing a safe and accessible Festival where our audiences and artists can come together to celebrate and discover new work, and each other.”
The 2021 edition, which ran January 28-February 3 and was the debut of new festival director Tabitha Jackson, actually drew a total audience more that twice as large than the typical in-person event in Park City. It had fewer feature films than usual, but because of the online nature it saw participation from all 50 states and 120 countries.
More than 70% of the...
- 5/13/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City – and beyond – for next year’s Sundance Film Festival.”
The 2022 Sundance Film Festival will take place in person and online from January 20–30 next year.
Festival brass said they were eager to return to Sundance’s traditional Utah hubs in Park City and Salt Lake City and would provide updates in the summer. Further details were unavailable at time of writing.
Sundance 2021: all the deals
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond — for next year’s Sundance Film Festival,” Sundance said in a note to press.
The 2022 Sundance Film Festival will take place in person and online from January 20–30 next year.
Festival brass said they were eager to return to Sundance’s traditional Utah hubs in Park City and Salt Lake City and would provide updates in the summer. Further details were unavailable at time of writing.
Sundance 2021: all the deals
“We can’t wait to return to Park City, Salt Lake City — and beyond — for next year’s Sundance Film Festival,” Sundance said in a note to press.
- 5/13/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Tues. April 6 L.A. County Public Health Issues Updates Guidelines for Filming
As Los Angeles County continues to see Covid-19 case rates, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to decline and the county enters the Orange Tier of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy framework, new protocols have been issued to lift some local activity-specific restrictions.
With craft services and dining, indoor dining is now allowed at 50% capacity (maximum 200 people), but outdoor dining is still strongly recommended and single serving meals are still required. With sit-down meals, the guidelines suggest “Dining must occur only in designated dining areas. It is recommended to have cast and crew eating in shifts with fewer people. Seating for sit-down meals must be large enough to allow for physical distancing of at least six (6) feet between persons eating and should be done outdoors.
Live audiences indoors are limited to 50 people and they may not be members of the general public.
As Los Angeles County continues to see Covid-19 case rates, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to decline and the county enters the Orange Tier of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy framework, new protocols have been issued to lift some local activity-specific restrictions.
With craft services and dining, indoor dining is now allowed at 50% capacity (maximum 200 people), but outdoor dining is still strongly recommended and single serving meals are still required. With sit-down meals, the guidelines suggest “Dining must occur only in designated dining areas. It is recommended to have cast and crew eating in shifts with fewer people. Seating for sit-down meals must be large enough to allow for physical distancing of at least six (6) feet between persons eating and should be done outdoors.
Live audiences indoors are limited to 50 people and they may not be members of the general public.
- 4/6/2021
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Excusive: The inclusive coalition of industry professionals ReFrame has selected former director of Canada’s Inside Out LGBTQ Film Festival Andria Wilson Mirza as its new Director.
In addition, the organization has created the new ReFrame Council, which includes the initiative’s founding members Wif Executive Director Kirsten Schaffer, Sundance CEO Keri Putnam, and Oscar-winning producer, Wif President Emeritas and founder of Welle Entertainment Cathy Schulman, alongside Channing Dungey, Franklin Leonard, Rena Ronson (Head of UTA Independent Film Group), and Bird Runningwater. The Council will lead the strategic development of ReFrame’s initiatives and provide oversight on future advocacy efforts.
ReFrame was founded in 2017 by Women In Film and Sundance Institute with the mission to increase the number of women of all backgrounds working in the screen industries.
In her role at ReFrame,...
In addition, the organization has created the new ReFrame Council, which includes the initiative’s founding members Wif Executive Director Kirsten Schaffer, Sundance CEO Keri Putnam, and Oscar-winning producer, Wif President Emeritas and founder of Welle Entertainment Cathy Schulman, alongside Channing Dungey, Franklin Leonard, Rena Ronson (Head of UTA Independent Film Group), and Bird Runningwater. The Council will lead the strategic development of ReFrame’s initiatives and provide oversight on future advocacy efforts.
ReFrame was founded in 2017 by Women In Film and Sundance Institute with the mission to increase the number of women of all backgrounds working in the screen industries.
In her role at ReFrame,...
- 4/6/2021
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Executive arrives from Inside Out in Toronto.
Women In Film and Sundance Institute industry support initiative ReFrame, the non-profit designed to increase the representation of women in the industry, has named Andria Wilson Mirza director.
Mirza will work with ReFrame ambassadors and partner companies to implement key programmes including the distribution of the ReFrame Stamp denoting distinction on productions that demonstrate gender-balanced hiring practices, the ReFrame Rise programme in support of mid-career women directors, and the expansion of the group’s Culture Change Handbook into the interactive ReFrame Playbook, which will launch this year.
She most recently served as executive...
Women In Film and Sundance Institute industry support initiative ReFrame, the non-profit designed to increase the representation of women in the industry, has named Andria Wilson Mirza director.
Mirza will work with ReFrame ambassadors and partner companies to implement key programmes including the distribution of the ReFrame Stamp denoting distinction on productions that demonstrate gender-balanced hiring practices, the ReFrame Rise programme in support of mid-career women directors, and the expansion of the group’s Culture Change Handbook into the interactive ReFrame Playbook, which will launch this year.
She most recently served as executive...
- 4/6/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
While the Oscars are still several weeks away, one of this year’s Best Picture nominees is already set for a celebration next week: “Judas and the Black Messiah” will be highlighted as the best movie of the year in the virtual edition of the African American Film Critics Association Awards on April 7. In anticipation of that event, Aafca co-founder Gil Robertson will join Eric Kohn and Anne Thompson this Thursday at 9 a.m. Pt (noon Et) for a live recording of their weekly movie podcast Screen Talk. Register to watch the live discussion and submit questions in the Q&a here.
Other Aafca winners this year include Regina King, Chadwick Boseman (“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”), and Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday”).
Veteran journalist Robertson founded Aafca in 2003, and the group has grown into the largest African American film organization over the past 18 years. He will discuss...
Other Aafca winners this year include Regina King, Chadwick Boseman (“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”), and Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday”).
Veteran journalist Robertson founded Aafca in 2003, and the group has grown into the largest African American film organization over the past 18 years. He will discuss...
- 3/30/2021
- by IndieWire Staff
- Indiewire
Keri Putnam, a fixture in Hollywood thanks to her longtime shepherding of America’s preeminent film festival, is resigning her post as CEO of the Sundance Institute.
Putnam has served in the role for over a decade, guiding the organization’s numerous programs and initiatives to fund and uplift indie filmmaking and marginalized voices, as well as overseeing the annual Park City-based festival.
“It’s been such an amazing ride. It’s been so immersive and rewarding, and I’m so proud of what we’ve done. After a decade, it’s the right time for me, for my next chapter and my next challenge,” Putnam told Variety. She will remain in the post through August, and is considering a return to the creative executive space, in which she has over two decades of experience.
“As a fierce supporter of independent creators, Keri has been instrumental in seeing the institute through a decade of transformation,...
Putnam has served in the role for over a decade, guiding the organization’s numerous programs and initiatives to fund and uplift indie filmmaking and marginalized voices, as well as overseeing the annual Park City-based festival.
“It’s been such an amazing ride. It’s been so immersive and rewarding, and I’m so proud of what we’ve done. After a decade, it’s the right time for me, for my next chapter and my next challenge,” Putnam told Variety. She will remain in the post through August, and is considering a return to the creative executive space, in which she has over two decades of experience.
“As a fierce supporter of independent creators, Keri has been instrumental in seeing the institute through a decade of transformation,...
- 3/25/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
After a very successful ten-year run, Keri Putnam will be departing the Sundance Institute as CEO at the end of August.
A successor has yet to be named. Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Vice-Chair Ebs Burnough will Co-Chair a Search Committee to identify Sundance Institute’s next Chief Executive.
Putnam’s departure comes in the wake of John Cooper’s exit in January 2020 as Festival Director, through he continues to be involved as an Emeritus Director, actively engaged with Sundance alumni and other sundry fest projects. While Sff Founder Robert Redford said he would not longer have a public-facing role in January 2019, the esteemed star and Oscar-winning filmmaker remains involved with Sundance Institute as a member of the board.
“As a fierce supporter of independent creators, Keri has been instrumental in seeing the Institute through a decade of transformation, while keeping a laser-focus on Sundance’s mission of preserving,...
A successor has yet to be named. Board of Trustees Chair Pat Mitchell and Vice-Chair Ebs Burnough will Co-Chair a Search Committee to identify Sundance Institute’s next Chief Executive.
Putnam’s departure comes in the wake of John Cooper’s exit in January 2020 as Festival Director, through he continues to be involved as an Emeritus Director, actively engaged with Sundance alumni and other sundry fest projects. While Sff Founder Robert Redford said he would not longer have a public-facing role in January 2019, the esteemed star and Oscar-winning filmmaker remains involved with Sundance Institute as a member of the board.
“As a fierce supporter of independent creators, Keri has been instrumental in seeing the Institute through a decade of transformation, while keeping a laser-focus on Sundance’s mission of preserving,...
- 3/25/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
After 10 years running the Sundance Institute, CEO Keri Putnam told her staff and the Board of Trustees that she will step down later this year.
In an interview this week, Putnam said the decision was her own and that she had been mulling a departure in recent years, particularly in the wake of long-time Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper’s exit in 2019 and hiring his replacement, Tabitha Jackson. However, she wanted to remain involved with the festival through the 2021 pandemic edition, and its conclusion struck her as a logical time to exit.
“Once the pandemic hit, it was obvious that I was going to stay with the organization to help onboard with Tabitha and the team for this challenging year,” Putnam said. “Having come through that in ways we all were really proud of, it just felt like a natural moment of closure for me to let the incredible team move forward.
In an interview this week, Putnam said the decision was her own and that she had been mulling a departure in recent years, particularly in the wake of long-time Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper’s exit in 2019 and hiring his replacement, Tabitha Jackson. However, she wanted to remain involved with the festival through the 2021 pandemic edition, and its conclusion struck her as a logical time to exit.
“Once the pandemic hit, it was obvious that I was going to stay with the organization to help onboard with Tabitha and the team for this challenging year,” Putnam said. “Having come through that in ways we all were really proud of, it just felt like a natural moment of closure for me to let the incredible team move forward.
- 3/25/2021
- by Anne Thompson and Eric Kohn
- Thompson on Hollywood
After 10 years running the Sundance Institute, CEO Keri Putnam told her staff and the Board of Trustees that she will step down later this year.
In an interview this week, Putnam said the decision was her own and that she had been mulling a departure in recent years, particularly in the wake of long-time Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper’s exit in 2019 and hiring his replacement, Tabitha Jackson. However, she wanted to remain involved with the festival through the 2021 pandemic edition, and its conclusion struck her as a logical time to exit.
“Once the pandemic hit, it was obvious that I was going to stay with the organization to help onboard with Tabitha and the team for this challenging year,” Putnam said. “Having come through that in ways we all were really proud of, it just felt like a natural moment of closure for me to let the incredible team move forward.
In an interview this week, Putnam said the decision was her own and that she had been mulling a departure in recent years, particularly in the wake of long-time Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper’s exit in 2019 and hiring his replacement, Tabitha Jackson. However, she wanted to remain involved with the festival through the 2021 pandemic edition, and its conclusion struck her as a logical time to exit.
“Once the pandemic hit, it was obvious that I was going to stay with the organization to help onboard with Tabitha and the team for this challenging year,” Putnam said. “Having come through that in ways we all were really proud of, it just felt like a natural moment of closure for me to let the incredible team move forward.
- 3/25/2021
- by Anne Thompson and Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
Keri Putnam, CEO of the Sundance Institute, will step down from her role later this year after more than 10 years with the arts non-profit.
Putnam this week informed staff and the Board of Trustees of her decision. She will remain in the role through the end of the fiscal year. Board of Trustees chair Pat Mitchell and vice-chair Ebs Burnough will co-chair a search committee to find Putnam’s replacement.
Under Putnam’s leadership, Sundance hosted its first ever virtual festival earlier this year, and she also led the non-profit in growth as well as the launch of new programs to support artists seeking production, financing and distribution, including Sundance Catalyst, which raised $40 million in equity and grant investment over the past eight years for a wide variety of independent projects.
“After an incredibly rewarding decade, and following the success of our first-ever online Festival, I have decided it’s...
Putnam this week informed staff and the Board of Trustees of her decision. She will remain in the role through the end of the fiscal year. Board of Trustees chair Pat Mitchell and vice-chair Ebs Burnough will co-chair a search committee to find Putnam’s replacement.
Under Putnam’s leadership, Sundance hosted its first ever virtual festival earlier this year, and she also led the non-profit in growth as well as the launch of new programs to support artists seeking production, financing and distribution, including Sundance Catalyst, which raised $40 million in equity and grant investment over the past eight years for a wide variety of independent projects.
“After an incredibly rewarding decade, and following the success of our first-ever online Festival, I have decided it’s...
- 3/25/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
“We cannot overstate her impact,” says founder Robert Redford.
After more than 10 years at the helm Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam has announced she will step down later this year.
Board of trustees chair Pat Mitchell and vice-chair Ebs Burnough will jointly lead a search committee to find Putnam’s replacement.
“After an incredibly rewarding decade, and following the success of our first-ever online festival, I have decided it’s the right time for me to step down as CEO of Sundance Institute,” said Putnam on Thursday (March 25). “Leading Sundance through this volatile era in media together with such an...
After more than 10 years at the helm Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam has announced she will step down later this year.
Board of trustees chair Pat Mitchell and vice-chair Ebs Burnough will jointly lead a search committee to find Putnam’s replacement.
“After an incredibly rewarding decade, and following the success of our first-ever online festival, I have decided it’s the right time for me to step down as CEO of Sundance Institute,” said Putnam on Thursday (March 25). “Leading Sundance through this volatile era in media together with such an...
- 3/25/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Keri Putnam will be stepping down as the CEO of the Sundance Institute before the year is done, after a decadelong tenure with the media and arts nonprofit.
“I feel incredibly proud over what we have accomplished over the past decade, especially over this past year, and it just felt like the right time for me to try a new chapter and also for the organization,” said Putnam in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Putnam, who first attended the famed festival in 1992, joined the Sundance Institute after a long career in production, including holding top posts ...
“I feel incredibly proud over what we have accomplished over the past decade, especially over this past year, and it just felt like the right time for me to try a new chapter and also for the organization,” said Putnam in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Putnam, who first attended the famed festival in 1992, joined the Sundance Institute after a long career in production, including holding top posts ...
- 3/25/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Keri Putnam will be stepping down as the CEO of the Sundance Institute before the year is done, after a decade-long tenure with the media and arts non-profit.
“I feel incredibly proud over what we have accomplished over the past decade, especially over this past year, and it just felt like the right time for me to try a new chapter and also for the organization,” said Putnam in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Putnam, who first attended the famed festival in 1992, joined the Sundance Institute after a long career in production, including holding top posts ...
“I feel incredibly proud over what we have accomplished over the past decade, especially over this past year, and it just felt like the right time for me to try a new chapter and also for the organization,” said Putnam in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Putnam, who first attended the famed festival in 1992, joined the Sundance Institute after a long career in production, including holding top posts ...
- 3/25/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Women In Film, Los Angeles (Wif) is expanding its board of directors by six with the election appointments of Niija Kuykendall, Michelle Lee, Monica Levinson, Chris Nee, Shivani Rawat and Ida Ziniti.
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer, creator, or agent,” said board president Amy Baer, CEO of Gidden Media. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
Baer also saluted outgoing board members Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam, all ...
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer, creator, or agent,” said board president Amy Baer, CEO of Gidden Media. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
Baer also saluted outgoing board members Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam, all ...
Women In Film, Los Angeles (Wif) is expanding its board of directors by six with the election appointments of Niija Kuykendall, Michelle Lee, Monica Levinson, Chris Nee, Shivani Rawat and Ida Ziniti.
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer, creator, or agent,” said board president Amy Baer, CEO of Gidden Media. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
Baer also saluted outgoing board members Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam, all ...
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer, creator, or agent,” said board president Amy Baer, CEO of Gidden Media. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
Baer also saluted outgoing board members Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam, all ...
Women in Film Los Angeles has a half-dozen new board members.
New to the board are Niija Kuykendall, EVP Production at Warner Bros Pictures; Michelle Lee, Director of Domestic Programming at AppleTV+; film producer Monica Levinson; and Ida Ziniti, Co-Head of the Motion Picture Literary Department at CAA.
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert — whether as an executive, producer, creator or agent,” Board President and Gidden Media CEO Amy Baer said in making the announcement on International Women’s Day. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
She noted that outgoing board members — Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam — who have completed their terms.
New to the board are Niija Kuykendall, EVP Production at Warner Bros Pictures; Michelle Lee, Director of Domestic Programming at AppleTV+; film producer Monica Levinson; and Ida Ziniti, Co-Head of the Motion Picture Literary Department at CAA.
“Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert — whether as an executive, producer, creator or agent,” Board President and Gidden Media CEO Amy Baer said in making the announcement on International Women’s Day. “Their diverse skill sets will help us to continue championing the advancement of women across all facets of the screen industries.”
She noted that outgoing board members — Stephanie Allain, Orly Adelson, Adriana Alberghetti, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Keri Putnam — who have completed their terms.
- 3/9/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Advocacy group recruits Golden Globe-winning producer and executives from CAA and Warner Bros.
Women In Film, Los Angeles (Wif) has named six new board members, among them Borat Subsequent Moviefilm producer Monica Levinson, CAA’s Ida Ziniti and Warner Bros Pictures production executive Niija Kuykendall.
Also joining the advocacy group’s 2021 board are Apple TV+ director of domestic programming Michelle Lee, Emmy-winning TV executive producer Chris Nee and Shivani Rawat, CEO production and finance company ShivHans Pictures.
Wif board president Amy Baer (CEO of Gidden Media) said: “Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer,...
Women In Film, Los Angeles (Wif) has named six new board members, among them Borat Subsequent Moviefilm producer Monica Levinson, CAA’s Ida Ziniti and Warner Bros Pictures production executive Niija Kuykendall.
Also joining the advocacy group’s 2021 board are Apple TV+ director of domestic programming Michelle Lee, Emmy-winning TV executive producer Chris Nee and Shivani Rawat, CEO production and finance company ShivHans Pictures.
Wif board president Amy Baer (CEO of Gidden Media) said: “Each of these impressive women is uniquely expert, whether as an executive, producer,...
- 3/9/2021
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
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