Charles S. Cohen’s Cohen Media Group, which owns the Landmark Theatres chain of art-houses, has acquired HanWay Films, the U.K.-based international film sales giant founded by Jeremy Thomas and long run by his partner Peter Watson.
Terms of the deal, which the company announced Thursday, were not disclosed.
HanWay will continued to be function as an independent unit selling a broad range of theatrical titles to international distributors. Peter Watson will continue to serve as president, along with Gabrielle Stewart as CEO.
Thomas’ Recorded Picture Company will maintain its close relationship to HanWay, which will continue to represent films from his upcoming slate; Watson will also keep his role as CEO of Recorded Picture Company.
Also Read:
Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Since its founding in 1998, HanWay Films has been one of the most prolific forces in indie cinema worldwide — accumulating a library...
Terms of the deal, which the company announced Thursday, were not disclosed.
HanWay will continued to be function as an independent unit selling a broad range of theatrical titles to international distributors. Peter Watson will continue to serve as president, along with Gabrielle Stewart as CEO.
Thomas’ Recorded Picture Company will maintain its close relationship to HanWay, which will continue to represent films from his upcoming slate; Watson will also keep his role as CEO of Recorded Picture Company.
Also Read:
Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Since its founding in 1998, HanWay Films has been one of the most prolific forces in indie cinema worldwide — accumulating a library...
- 8/25/2022
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
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
In a huge blow to Los Angeles moviegoers, Pacific Theatres announced Monday that it is closing all of its Pacific and ArcLight Cinemas locations permanently after its business was roiled over the last year by the pandemic.
The Decurion Corporation, owner of the six LA-area Pacific locations and 11 ArcLight locations nationwide, announced the closure in a statement.
Here’s the company’s full statement:
After shutting our doors more than a year ago, today we must share the difficult and sad news that Pacific will not be reopening its ArcLight Cinemas and Pacific Theatres locations.
This was not the outcome anyone wanted, but despite a huge effort that exhausted all potential options, the company does not have a viable way forward.
To all the Pacific and ArcLight employees who have devoted their professional lives to making our theaters the very best places in the world to see movies: we are...
The Decurion Corporation, owner of the six LA-area Pacific locations and 11 ArcLight locations nationwide, announced the closure in a statement.
Here’s the company’s full statement:
After shutting our doors more than a year ago, today we must share the difficult and sad news that Pacific will not be reopening its ArcLight Cinemas and Pacific Theatres locations.
This was not the outcome anyone wanted, but despite a huge effort that exhausted all potential options, the company does not have a viable way forward.
To all the Pacific and ArcLight employees who have devoted their professional lives to making our theaters the very best places in the world to see movies: we are...
- 4/13/2021
- by Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
Hollywood’s great re-awakening seems at hand. Sort of.
The cameras are rolling, the theaters are opening, the wannabe blockbusters have nailed new playdates. Even Bob Iger last week revealed his exit date, marking his kingdom’s new era.
But when the curtains rise, will the audience applaud?
Paradoxically, I was reading a new book this week that posed a metaphor for the Hollywood moment. Titled Shooting Midnight Cowboy, the book by Glenn Frankel portrayed the shadow of doom hovering over a movie about to start shooting 50 years ago. Its young director, John Schlesinger, was semi-suicidal because the critics had just savaged his latest picture. With Cowboy, had he again chosen the wrong cast and the wrong setting?
His studio seemed to share the young Brit’s paranoia. Fearful of its gay subtext and potential “X” rating, United Artists had cut his budget and reduced his pay to $100,000. His young star,...
The cameras are rolling, the theaters are opening, the wannabe blockbusters have nailed new playdates. Even Bob Iger last week revealed his exit date, marking his kingdom’s new era.
But when the curtains rise, will the audience applaud?
Paradoxically, I was reading a new book this week that posed a metaphor for the Hollywood moment. Titled Shooting Midnight Cowboy, the book by Glenn Frankel portrayed the shadow of doom hovering over a movie about to start shooting 50 years ago. Its young director, John Schlesinger, was semi-suicidal because the critics had just savaged his latest picture. With Cowboy, had he again chosen the wrong cast and the wrong setting?
His studio seemed to share the young Brit’s paranoia. Fearful of its gay subtext and potential “X” rating, United Artists had cut his budget and reduced his pay to $100,000. His young star,...
- 4/1/2021
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
When Universal and AMC Theatres reached a detente last week to shorten the traditional 90-day theatrical window to just 17 days, it was as clear a sign as ever that film exhibition has changed for good. While it’s unclear exactly what the domino effects will be, ArcLight Cinemas/Pacific Theatres President and COO Ted Mundorff has issued a warning: If independent film gets caught up in the studios’ wheeling and dealing, the impact could be disastrous.
Mundorff offered his thoughts during a panel titled “The Future of Distribution is Now: New Paradigms,” posted online this week as part of the ongoing Film Independent Forum. While he said he’s optimistic about the return of the theatrical experience and its future importance to the industry, he offered a blunt assessment on the current state of affairs.
“Indie films are, I think, the films that are most vulnerable right now,” he said.
Mundorff offered his thoughts during a panel titled “The Future of Distribution is Now: New Paradigms,” posted online this week as part of the ongoing Film Independent Forum. While he said he’s optimistic about the return of the theatrical experience and its future importance to the industry, he offered a blunt assessment on the current state of affairs.
“Indie films are, I think, the films that are most vulnerable right now,” he said.
- 8/6/2020
- by Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Film Independent has unveiled their keynotes, conversations and panelists for the 15th annual Film Independent Forum. The Forum, which is traditionally a weekend event, will now be a week-long virtual event that will reach all corners of the globe from July 31 to August 7.
The event has set a roster of banner names in the industry, featuring a U.S. Filmmaker Keynote with Lulu Wang (The Farewell); a U.S. Executive Keynote with Elissa Federoff, President of Distribution at Neon; a Documentary Keynote with Dawn Porter; and a Global Executive Keynote with Ashok Amritraj, Chairman and CEO of Hyde Park Entertainment Group. Traditionally a weekend event, the Forum has expanded to a full week-long event accessible online to global audiences the week of July 31 to August 7.
In addition, panels will cover financing, production and distribution of films to digital content across diverse platforms...
The event has set a roster of banner names in the industry, featuring a U.S. Filmmaker Keynote with Lulu Wang (The Farewell); a U.S. Executive Keynote with Elissa Federoff, President of Distribution at Neon; a Documentary Keynote with Dawn Porter; and a Global Executive Keynote with Ashok Amritraj, Chairman and CEO of Hyde Park Entertainment Group. Traditionally a weekend event, the Forum has expanded to a full week-long event accessible online to global audiences the week of July 31 to August 7.
In addition, panels will cover financing, production and distribution of films to digital content across diverse platforms...
- 6/30/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
It seems like a distant memory — taking refuge in the welcoming comfort of a movie theater. And now it may become even more distant. Key players at the studios are worried that summer openings may simply not happen; further, that scores of movie theaters may not survive the year. Equally alarming: Ticket buyers are rearranging their habits, and their homes, to accommodate a future of watching the passing parade from their couches.
“We took the summer play dates for granted, but then we also assumed that the festivals would survive,” confides one distressed distributor. When theaters finally open, he fears, they will have to reinvent everything from seating to pricing to windowing. “Our leverage has been lost along with our audiences,” said one exhibitor.
Officially, decisions are still clouded. Two movies — Tenet from Warner
Bros and Mulan from Disney — have become the symbols of recovery. Both had warily announced July openings,...
“We took the summer play dates for granted, but then we also assumed that the festivals would survive,” confides one distressed distributor. When theaters finally open, he fears, they will have to reinvent everything from seating to pricing to windowing. “Our leverage has been lost along with our audiences,” said one exhibitor.
Officially, decisions are still clouded. Two movies — Tenet from Warner
Bros and Mulan from Disney — have become the symbols of recovery. Both had warily announced July openings,...
- 6/4/2020
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
Los Angeles has traditionally prided itself in being ahead of entertainment trends that develop around the country. But the area has been a little bit behind in at least one: the reopening of drive-in theaters during the pandemic. While other states and even surrounding counties had allowed drive-ins to resume operation, Los Angeles County had been a holdout, leaving its two after-dark theaters completely darkened.
That changed Wednesday, as the county gave the go-ahead to its drive-ins to light up screens again for the first time in two and a half months. Naturally, the two theaters affected by the edict aren’t wasting much time in firing up their digital projectors again. The Paramount Drive-In, a two-screen operation in the city of Paramount, just north of Long Beach, is back open for business this weekend. And the four-screen Vineland in the City of Industry is looking at reopening next week.
That changed Wednesday, as the county gave the go-ahead to its drive-ins to light up screens again for the first time in two and a half months. Naturally, the two theaters affected by the edict aren’t wasting much time in firing up their digital projectors again. The Paramount Drive-In, a two-screen operation in the city of Paramount, just north of Long Beach, is back open for business this weekend. And the four-screen Vineland in the City of Industry is looking at reopening next week.
- 5/30/2020
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
Memorial Day Weekend usually heralds the height of summer moviegoing. As the film industry heads toward the slow reopening of theaters, from retro programming and drive-ins to the holy trio of “Unhinged,” “The Outpost” and maybe, just maybe, Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” on July 17, IndieWire is bringing together a panel of industry players to share their knowledge with us.
What are the hazards going forward, as well as the likeliest scenarios? The world is watching as the mighty North American box office, the largest in the world, gets up from its knees. Join our virtual panel discussion hosted by IndieWire this Wednesday at 1 pm Pt, 4 pm Et.
To watch the panel and submit questions for the Q&a, register at this form. Registration is free.
The panel is comprised of Chris Aronson, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, Paramount Pictures; Dori Begley, Executive Vice President, Magnolia Pictures; Bob Berney, CEO Picturehouse; Ted Mundorff,...
What are the hazards going forward, as well as the likeliest scenarios? The world is watching as the mighty North American box office, the largest in the world, gets up from its knees. Join our virtual panel discussion hosted by IndieWire this Wednesday at 1 pm Pt, 4 pm Et.
To watch the panel and submit questions for the Q&a, register at this form. Registration is free.
The panel is comprised of Chris Aronson, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, Paramount Pictures; Dori Begley, Executive Vice President, Magnolia Pictures; Bob Berney, CEO Picturehouse; Ted Mundorff,...
- 5/26/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Memorial Day Weekend usually heralds the height of summer moviegoing. As the film industry heads toward the slow reopening of theaters, from retro programming and drive-ins to the holy trio of “Unhinged,” “The Outpost” and maybe, just maybe, Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” on July 17, IndieWire is bringing together a panel of industry players to share their knowledge with us.
What are the hazards going forward, as well as the likeliest scenarios? The world is watching as the mighty North American box office, the largest in the world, gets up from its knees. Join our virtual panel discussion hosted by IndieWire this Wednesday at 1 pm Pt, 4 pm Et.
To watch the panel and submit questions for the Q&a, register at this form. Registration is free.
The panel is comprised of Chris Aronson, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, Paramount Pictures; Dori Begley, Executive Vice President, Magnolia Pictures; Bob Berney, CEO Picturehouse; Ted Mundorff,...
What are the hazards going forward, as well as the likeliest scenarios? The world is watching as the mighty North American box office, the largest in the world, gets up from its knees. Join our virtual panel discussion hosted by IndieWire this Wednesday at 1 pm Pt, 4 pm Et.
To watch the panel and submit questions for the Q&a, register at this form. Registration is free.
The panel is comprised of Chris Aronson, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, Paramount Pictures; Dori Begley, Executive Vice President, Magnolia Pictures; Bob Berney, CEO Picturehouse; Ted Mundorff,...
- 5/26/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
What we’re about to inform you about cannot be read into as an indication of long-term trends, or even short-term.
The state of exhibition and the domestic box office is changing by the hour in the current coronavirus climate and by tomorrow or even before next Friday we could be looking at a different theatrical landscape.
More from Deadline'The Lord Of The Rings' Shuts Down Production In New Zealand Over Coronavirus FearsL.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti Orders Closure Of Movie Theaters To Help Prevent Spread Of Coronavirus - UpdateDemocratic Debate #11 Review: Coronavirus Dominates, Trump Bored & Joe Biden Starts Measuring Oval Office Drapes - Update
The lingo “comping” is used by distribution and exhibition executives when discussing the historical comparison of titles at the box office or market conditions, and when it comes to this weekend at the box office, which saw a 22-year low of $55.3M (-45% from last...
The state of exhibition and the domestic box office is changing by the hour in the current coronavirus climate and by tomorrow or even before next Friday we could be looking at a different theatrical landscape.
More from Deadline'The Lord Of The Rings' Shuts Down Production In New Zealand Over Coronavirus FearsL.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti Orders Closure Of Movie Theaters To Help Prevent Spread Of Coronavirus - UpdateDemocratic Debate #11 Review: Coronavirus Dominates, Trump Bored & Joe Biden Starts Measuring Oval Office Drapes - Update
The lingo “comping” is used by distribution and exhibition executives when discussing the historical comparison of titles at the box office or market conditions, and when it comes to this weekend at the box office, which saw a 22-year low of $55.3M (-45% from last...
- 3/15/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
On March 12, writer-director-actress Amy Seimetz debuted her new indie film “She Dies Tomorrow” at an oddly subdued Soho House in West Hollywood. Star Kate Lyn Sheil was on hand; she portrays Amy, an anxious first-time homeowner who tells her artist friend (Jane Adams) that she is going to die the next day.
This private screening was meant to replace the film’s canceled SXSW premiere, but things have changed. Seimetz is plugging onward, seeking a buyer. “Everything’s very contagious right now,” she told the small gathering after the screening, offering guests wine but no cheese platter. “I apologize, but you should thank me.”
It’s a very strange time. Screenwriters are turning back to spec scripts. Agents are digging into unread screenplays, since there’s no urgency to drive projects into production. Studios and streamers shut down movies, series and pilot production, from Coronavirus patient Tom Hanks’ Elvis Presley...
This private screening was meant to replace the film’s canceled SXSW premiere, but things have changed. Seimetz is plugging onward, seeking a buyer. “Everything’s very contagious right now,” she told the small gathering after the screening, offering guests wine but no cheese platter. “I apologize, but you should thank me.”
It’s a very strange time. Screenwriters are turning back to spec scripts. Agents are digging into unread screenplays, since there’s no urgency to drive projects into production. Studios and streamers shut down movies, series and pilot production, from Coronavirus patient Tom Hanks’ Elvis Presley...
- 3/14/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
On March 12, writer-director-actress Amy Seimetz debuted her new indie film “She Dies Tomorrow” at an oddly subdued Soho House in West Hollywood. Star Kate Lyn Sheil was on hand; she portrays Amy, an anxious first-time homeowner who tells her artist friend (Jane Adams) that she is going to die the next day.
This private screening was meant to replace the film’s canceled SXSW premiere, but things have changed. Seimetz is plugging onward, seeking a buyer. “Everything’s very contagious right now,” she told the small gathering after the screening, offering guests wine but no cheese platter. “I apologize, but you should thank me.”
More from IndieWireJohn Oliver Slams Trump's 'Catastrophic' Coronavirus Response: 'Listen to Cdc, Not President'Coronavirus Cancellations: Every Film, TV Show, and Event Affected by the Outbreak
It’s a very strange time. Screenwriters are turning back to spec scripts. Agents are digging into unread screenplays, since there...
This private screening was meant to replace the film’s canceled SXSW premiere, but things have changed. Seimetz is plugging onward, seeking a buyer. “Everything’s very contagious right now,” she told the small gathering after the screening, offering guests wine but no cheese platter. “I apologize, but you should thank me.”
More from IndieWireJohn Oliver Slams Trump's 'Catastrophic' Coronavirus Response: 'Listen to Cdc, Not President'Coronavirus Cancellations: Every Film, TV Show, and Event Affected by the Outbreak
It’s a very strange time. Screenwriters are turning back to spec scripts. Agents are digging into unread screenplays, since there...
- 3/14/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Already, we may have a clue as to Netflix Oscar strategy for 2021: The streaming giant has hired two theatrical veterans to bolster its theatrical distribution staff.
Justin Dipietro, previously head of theatrical distribution at New York-based IFC, is relocating to Los Angeles next month to become director of theatrical sales. Like his Netflix counterpart in New York, Lori Bandazian, he will report to director of distribution Spencer Klein.
Also joining Netflix is David Schwartz, one of the best-known names in repertory programming. After spending 33 years at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image, he left his role as chief curator last November and the museum celebrated his legacy with a special program in January. Now he’s joining Netflix as manager of theatrical programming and will oversee the Netflix-operated Paris Theater.
In addition to managing the presentation of the company’s films, he will be charged with special...
Justin Dipietro, previously head of theatrical distribution at New York-based IFC, is relocating to Los Angeles next month to become director of theatrical sales. Like his Netflix counterpart in New York, Lori Bandazian, he will report to director of distribution Spencer Klein.
Also joining Netflix is David Schwartz, one of the best-known names in repertory programming. After spending 33 years at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image, he left his role as chief curator last November and the museum celebrated his legacy with a special program in January. Now he’s joining Netflix as manager of theatrical programming and will oversee the Netflix-operated Paris Theater.
In addition to managing the presentation of the company’s films, he will be charged with special...
- 2/22/2020
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
In today’s film news roundup, Noomi Rapace gets a starring role, ArcLight Cinemas hires Ted Mundorff and a “Karn Evil 9” movie is in the works.
Casting
Noomi Rapace will star in the thriller “O2,” which will launch sales next week at the European Film Market in Berlin through Wild Bunch International.
Franck Khalfoun is directing and Alexandre Aja is producing and supervising artistic direction. CAA Media Finance will represent domestic rights.
Echo Lake Entertainment, 42 and Wild Bunch International are also producing. The script by Christie LeBlanc was on the 2016 Black List. The story revolves around a woman who wakes up in a cryogenic medical pod and finds herself alone with no memory. She has 90 minutes of oxygen left and must figure out how to save herself.
Rapace achieved international fame with her portrayal of Lisbeth Salander in the Swedish film adaptations of the Millennium book series, which included “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,...
Casting
Noomi Rapace will star in the thriller “O2,” which will launch sales next week at the European Film Market in Berlin through Wild Bunch International.
Franck Khalfoun is directing and Alexandre Aja is producing and supervising artistic direction. CAA Media Finance will represent domestic rights.
Echo Lake Entertainment, 42 and Wild Bunch International are also producing. The script by Christie LeBlanc was on the 2016 Black List. The story revolves around a woman who wakes up in a cryogenic medical pod and finds herself alone with no memory. She has 90 minutes of oxygen left and must figure out how to save herself.
Rapace achieved international fame with her portrayal of Lisbeth Salander in the Swedish film adaptations of the Millennium book series, which included “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,...
- 2/15/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
ArcLight Cinemas said on Friday that it has tapped Ted Mundorff as the theater chain’s new president and chief operating officer.
Mundorff stepped down as the head of Landmark Theatres back in October. Mundorff led Landmark for 15 years through a period of growth and a rebranding. In addition to opening Landmark’s flagship locations in New York and Los Angeles, he was responsible for expanding the Landmark experience to Denver, Indianapolis, Washington, DC, and Miami.
His departure from Landmark came after the chain was acquired by Cohen Media Group in December 2018.
“I am excited to be working with Chris again, alongside the entire ArcLight team,” Mundorff said. “Since its founding, ArcLight has been a leading innovator in our industry, and I look forward to continuing to deliver meaningful movie-going experiences to guests across the country.”
Also Read: Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Prior to Landmark,...
Mundorff stepped down as the head of Landmark Theatres back in October. Mundorff led Landmark for 15 years through a period of growth and a rebranding. In addition to opening Landmark’s flagship locations in New York and Los Angeles, he was responsible for expanding the Landmark experience to Denver, Indianapolis, Washington, DC, and Miami.
His departure from Landmark came after the chain was acquired by Cohen Media Group in December 2018.
“I am excited to be working with Chris again, alongside the entire ArcLight team,” Mundorff said. “Since its founding, ArcLight has been a leading innovator in our industry, and I look forward to continuing to deliver meaningful movie-going experiences to guests across the country.”
Also Read: Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Prior to Landmark,...
- 2/14/2020
- by Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Exclusive: A big seismic shift has just occurred in the exhibition space: ArcLight Cinemas has just hired Ted Mundorff as the chain’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Deadline has just learned. The move brings Mundorff back to the chain where he served as VP and Film Buyer prior to his run at Landmark.
Mundorff will oversee the ArcLight’s swath of locations in Chicago, DC, San Diego, Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Boston and more.
Mundorff left Landmark Theatres back in October after a 15-year run, and in the wake of the specialty exhibitor chain being bought out by Cohen Media Group’s Charles Cohen in December 2018. It was an executive departure that shook the independent box office world, given Mundorff’s respect among independent distributors and also awards season strategists who showcased their pics at Landmark. The Landmark chain counts 252 screens in 27 major markets.
Commenting on the announcement,...
Mundorff will oversee the ArcLight’s swath of locations in Chicago, DC, San Diego, Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Boston and more.
Mundorff left Landmark Theatres back in October after a 15-year run, and in the wake of the specialty exhibitor chain being bought out by Cohen Media Group’s Charles Cohen in December 2018. It was an executive departure that shook the independent box office world, given Mundorff’s respect among independent distributors and also awards season strategists who showcased their pics at Landmark. The Landmark chain counts 252 screens in 27 major markets.
Commenting on the announcement,...
- 2/14/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Less than four months after exiting Landmark Theatres, Ted Mundorff has found a new role at ArcLight Cinemas.
The theater executive, who had spent more than 15 years at Landmark, was hired as ArcLight's incoming president and COO, the chain said Friday.
"I’m thrilled to be reuniting with Ted, an exhibition executive whose deep love of film and understanding of the customer experience will be critical to the future of our brand," stated ArcLight CEO Christopher Forman.
Mundorff had stepped down from Landmark in October 2019, less than a year after owners Mark Cuban ...
The theater executive, who had spent more than 15 years at Landmark, was hired as ArcLight's incoming president and COO, the chain said Friday.
"I’m thrilled to be reuniting with Ted, an exhibition executive whose deep love of film and understanding of the customer experience will be critical to the future of our brand," stated ArcLight CEO Christopher Forman.
Mundorff had stepped down from Landmark in October 2019, less than a year after owners Mark Cuban ...
- 2/14/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Less than four months after exiting Landmark Theatres, Ted Mundorff has found a new role at ArcLight Cinemas.
The theater executive, who had spent more than 15 years at Landmark, was hired as ArcLight's incoming president and COO, the chain said Friday.
"I’m thrilled to be reuniting with Ted, an exhibition executive whose deep love of film and understanding of the customer experience will be critical to the future of our brand," stated ArcLight CEO Christopher Forman.
Mundorff had stepped down from Landmark in October 2019, less than a year after owners Mark Cuban ...
The theater executive, who had spent more than 15 years at Landmark, was hired as ArcLight's incoming president and COO, the chain said Friday.
"I’m thrilled to be reuniting with Ted, an exhibition executive whose deep love of film and understanding of the customer experience will be critical to the future of our brand," stated ArcLight CEO Christopher Forman.
Mundorff had stepped down from Landmark in October 2019, less than a year after owners Mark Cuban ...
- 2/14/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
With the hire of Paul Serwitz as president and COO of Landmark Theatres announced October 30, Landmark Theatres owner Charles S. Cohen quickly filled the vacancy created by the October 24 resignation of Ted Mundorff. It’s a surprising choice.
Formerly a VP Film at Regal Entertainment, Serwitz lay outside the expected shortlist of candidates. Regal is a distant second in specialized compared to the biggest chain, AMC, and even to Landmark itself. Landmark lives and dies by these films, and is particularly essential for smaller companies. With 251 screens in 51 theaters located in 27 markets, Landmark alone can create the backbone of a release that has a chance to succeed.
At Regal, specialty was a sideline for Serwitz, whose portfolio included oversight of up to 1,000 screens and supervising other buyers, including one who handled direct specialized contact. (That person is now at Landmark.)
Industry sources described him as a gentleman, thoughtful, judicious, and talented.
Formerly a VP Film at Regal Entertainment, Serwitz lay outside the expected shortlist of candidates. Regal is a distant second in specialized compared to the biggest chain, AMC, and even to Landmark itself. Landmark lives and dies by these films, and is particularly essential for smaller companies. With 251 screens in 51 theaters located in 27 markets, Landmark alone can create the backbone of a release that has a chance to succeed.
At Regal, specialty was a sideline for Serwitz, whose portfolio included oversight of up to 1,000 screens and supervising other buyers, including one who handled direct specialized contact. (That person is now at Landmark.)
Industry sources described him as a gentleman, thoughtful, judicious, and talented.
- 11/1/2019
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
Paul Serwitz, vice president of film for Regal Entertainment, was named the new president and chief operating officer of Landmark Theaters on Wednesday.
Serwitz’s arrival comes a week after the departure of longtime Landmark CEO Ted Mundorff and ten months after the theater chain was purchased by Cohen Media Group from Mark Cuban’s 2929 Entertainment. Landmark, which operates 56 theaters in 27 markets with a screen total of 252, has become a key player in the arthouse film industry as its West Los Angeles location often serves as one of the initial release locations for foreign, independent, and awards-contending films that make an L.A./New York platform release.
Also Read: Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Serwitz, who got his start in the theatrical exhibition industry at the Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C., is ending a 25-year career at Regal, the last 17 of which he served as Film VP.
Serwitz’s arrival comes a week after the departure of longtime Landmark CEO Ted Mundorff and ten months after the theater chain was purchased by Cohen Media Group from Mark Cuban’s 2929 Entertainment. Landmark, which operates 56 theaters in 27 markets with a screen total of 252, has become a key player in the arthouse film industry as its West Los Angeles location often serves as one of the initial release locations for foreign, independent, and awards-contending films that make an L.A./New York platform release.
Also Read: Ted Mundorff Steps Down as Head of Landmark Theatres
Serwitz, who got his start in the theatrical exhibition industry at the Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C., is ending a 25-year career at Regal, the last 17 of which he served as Film VP.
- 10/30/2019
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Chain operates 51 theatres and 251 screens in 27 markets.
Former Regal Entertainment Group vice-president Paul Serwitz has been named Landmark Theatres president and COO following the abrupt departure of Ted Mundorff last week.
For more than a decade Serwitz oversaw Regal’s national art and specialised programme and grew that segment of the business to nearly $200m.
Prior to Paul’s 25-year tenure at Regal, Serwitz worked at Cineplex Odeon in Washington DC, and originally served in operations and film with Neighborhood Entertainment Group in Richmond, Virginia.
Landmark operates 51 theatres and 251 screens in 27 markets. Sites include flagship The Landmark in Los Angeles,...
Former Regal Entertainment Group vice-president Paul Serwitz has been named Landmark Theatres president and COO following the abrupt departure of Ted Mundorff last week.
For more than a decade Serwitz oversaw Regal’s national art and specialised programme and grew that segment of the business to nearly $200m.
Prior to Paul’s 25-year tenure at Regal, Serwitz worked at Cineplex Odeon in Washington DC, and originally served in operations and film with Neighborhood Entertainment Group in Richmond, Virginia.
Landmark operates 51 theatres and 251 screens in 27 markets. Sites include flagship The Landmark in Los Angeles,...
- 10/30/2019
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Landmark Theatres has hired veteran Regal Entertainment executive Paul Serwitz as president and chief operating officer.
The arthouse chain made the announcement on Wednesday, a week after Ted Mundorff resigned from his post as the longtime CEO of Landmark Theatres. Mundorff’s departure came less than a year after Landmark was bought by Cohen Media Group.
Serwitz has served 17 years as vice president of film for Regal. His role included oversight of Regal’s national art and specialized program, growing that segment of the business to nearly $200 million annually. Prior to his 25-year tenure at Regal, he worked for Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C.
“I have long admired the unique space Landmark occupies in the exhibition and theatrical landscape,” Serwitz said. “They are a trailblazer in the cinema experience. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to join Landmark and help expand the company’s vision and reach.”
In December,...
The arthouse chain made the announcement on Wednesday, a week after Ted Mundorff resigned from his post as the longtime CEO of Landmark Theatres. Mundorff’s departure came less than a year after Landmark was bought by Cohen Media Group.
Serwitz has served 17 years as vice president of film for Regal. His role included oversight of Regal’s national art and specialized program, growing that segment of the business to nearly $200 million annually. Prior to his 25-year tenure at Regal, he worked for Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C.
“I have long admired the unique space Landmark occupies in the exhibition and theatrical landscape,” Serwitz said. “They are a trailblazer in the cinema experience. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to join Landmark and help expand the company’s vision and reach.”
In December,...
- 10/30/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Paul Serwitz has been hired by Landmark Theatres Owner/Chairman Charles S. Cohen to be President and Chief Operating Officer of the country’s largest prestige film theater chain, with 51 theaters and 251 screens in 27 markets. His appointment follows on the heels of the surprise exit of longtime Landmark head Ted Mundorff, who resigned October 24. Cohen Media Group acquired the chain from Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner last December.
Serwitz joins Landmark after spending the last 17 years as Vice President of Film for Regal Entertainment Group, the national theater circuit whose brands include Regal Cinemas, Edwards Theatres and United Artists Theatres. For the better part of a decade, his role included oversight of Regal’s national art and specialized program, growing that segment of the business to nearly $200M. Prior to his 25 years in total at Regal, Serwitz worked for Toronto-based Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C. and originally was in...
Serwitz joins Landmark after spending the last 17 years as Vice President of Film for Regal Entertainment Group, the national theater circuit whose brands include Regal Cinemas, Edwards Theatres and United Artists Theatres. For the better part of a decade, his role included oversight of Regal’s national art and specialized program, growing that segment of the business to nearly $200M. Prior to his 25 years in total at Regal, Serwitz worked for Toronto-based Cineplex Odeon in Washington D.C. and originally was in...
- 10/30/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Veteran Regal Theatres executive Paul Serwitz has been named president and COO of Landmark Theatres less than a week after Ted Mundorff's surprise exit.
Landmark owner Charles S. Cohen announced the hire Wednesday. In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the country's largest independent theater circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by the billionaire real estate developer and devoted cinephile.
"Paul Serwitz has vast experience in all aspects of film exhibition and acquisition, in both local markets and on the national front. He is highly respected and has cultivated solid relationships throughout ...
Landmark owner Charles S. Cohen announced the hire Wednesday. In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the country's largest independent theater circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by the billionaire real estate developer and devoted cinephile.
"Paul Serwitz has vast experience in all aspects of film exhibition and acquisition, in both local markets and on the national front. He is highly respected and has cultivated solid relationships throughout ...
- 10/30/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Veteran Regal Theatres executive Paul Serwitz has been named president and COO of Landmark Theatres less than a week after Ted Mundorff's surprise exit.
Landmark owner Charles S. Cohen announced the hire Wednesday. In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the country's largest independent theater circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by the billionaire real estate developer and devoted cinephile.
"Paul Serwitz has vast experience in all aspects of film exhibition and acquisition, in both local markets and on the national front. He is highly respected and has cultivated solid relationships throughout ...
Landmark owner Charles S. Cohen announced the hire Wednesday. In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the country's largest independent theater circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by the billionaire real estate developer and devoted cinephile.
"Paul Serwitz has vast experience in all aspects of film exhibition and acquisition, in both local markets and on the national front. He is highly respected and has cultivated solid relationships throughout ...
- 10/30/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Exclusive: The independent film and theatrical space was shaken up Thursday night when Deadline broke news that Landmark Theatres president Ted Mundorff was exiting. Mundorff was a fixture at the largest dedicated specialized theater chain in the country, with 252 screens in 27 major markets, the chain that owners Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold 10 months ago to Cohen Media Group’s Charles Cohen. Deadline had heard there was friction between owner and president for a while. Although he didn’t want to specify his differences with Cohen, Mundorff acknowledged that his exit didn’t come out of the blue. Deadline caught up with him when he was coming from a board meeting of Film Independent, on his way home to watch the World Series.
“The fact I am no longer employed says a lot, but [Cohen] bought the theater 10 months ago, and this is a company we built from the ground up,...
“The fact I am no longer employed says a lot, but [Cohen] bought the theater 10 months ago, and this is a company we built from the ground up,...
- 10/26/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Veteran indie exhibitor Ted Mundorff, longtime president and CEO of Landmark Theatres, shocked the specialized film industry with his unexpected resignation October 24. While Landmark confirmed his exit, the company offered no further information. However, circumstances suggest his departure was not amicable: An email to his Landmark address returned with a boilerplate message stating that Mundorff is no longer is with the company, along with new contact information.
The backdrop to all of this is Landmark’s acquisition late last year by the media group of Manhattan real estate mogul Charles Cohen. He also owns Cohen Releasing, which has a significant interest in foreign film as well as a large catalog of classic films. Cohen previously operated Manhattan’s Quad Cinema, which is now part of the Landmark chain.
Mundorff’s abrupt resignation could be written off as a matter of bureaucracy, a clash between two high-powered leaders who couldn’t get along following an acquisition.
The backdrop to all of this is Landmark’s acquisition late last year by the media group of Manhattan real estate mogul Charles Cohen. He also owns Cohen Releasing, which has a significant interest in foreign film as well as a large catalog of classic films. Cohen previously operated Manhattan’s Quad Cinema, which is now part of the Landmark chain.
Mundorff’s abrupt resignation could be written off as a matter of bureaucracy, a clash between two high-powered leaders who couldn’t get along following an acquisition.
- 10/25/2019
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
Ted Mundorff has stepped down as head of arthouse theater chain Landmark Theatres, sources have confirmed to TheWrap.
Landmark Theatres, which has 252 screens in 27 cities, is a crucial presence in the specialty film industry. Its Los Angeles location serves as an initial release spot for many potential Oscar contenders seeking a platform release. Landmark has also agreed to screen films from Netflix — including Best Picture nominee “Roma” — at a time when major theatrical chains worldwide are refusing to screen the films in a limited exclusive theatrical window.
Also Read: Box Office Mojo Criticized After Redesign That Includes a Paywall for Some Data
In addition to Landmark Los Angeles, other key locations owned by the chain include The Landmark at 57 West in New York, which has held many awards screenings for Oscar contenders, as well as the historical Nuart Theater on Santa Monica Boulevard.
Now the chain is at a crossroads...
Landmark Theatres, which has 252 screens in 27 cities, is a crucial presence in the specialty film industry. Its Los Angeles location serves as an initial release spot for many potential Oscar contenders seeking a platform release. Landmark has also agreed to screen films from Netflix — including Best Picture nominee “Roma” — at a time when major theatrical chains worldwide are refusing to screen the films in a limited exclusive theatrical window.
Also Read: Box Office Mojo Criticized After Redesign That Includes a Paywall for Some Data
In addition to Landmark Los Angeles, other key locations owned by the chain include The Landmark at 57 West in New York, which has held many awards screenings for Oscar contenders, as well as the historical Nuart Theater on Santa Monica Boulevard.
Now the chain is at a crossroads...
- 10/25/2019
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Ted Mundorff, the longtime CEO of Landmark Theatres, has resigned from his post less than a year after the arthouse chain was bought by Cohen Media Group.
Daniela Sapkar, a spokeswoman for the chain, confirmed Mundorff’s departure to Variety.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by real estate developer and cinephile Charles S. Cohen. Landmark operates 56 theaters in 27 markets.
Cohen, whose fortune is estimated to be $3.4 billion, had said at the time of the purchase that he would retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres. Mundorff said he was optimistic that Cohen would be an ideal owner.
Landmark, which operates 252 screens, had been owned by Wagner-Cuban’s 2929 Entertainment since 2003. Landmark describes itself as the nation’s largest specialized theater chain dedicated to independent cinema. At a time when major theater chains have barred movies from Netflix,...
Daniela Sapkar, a spokeswoman for the chain, confirmed Mundorff’s departure to Variety.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the circuit to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by real estate developer and cinephile Charles S. Cohen. Landmark operates 56 theaters in 27 markets.
Cohen, whose fortune is estimated to be $3.4 billion, had said at the time of the purchase that he would retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres. Mundorff said he was optimistic that Cohen would be an ideal owner.
Landmark, which operates 252 screens, had been owned by Wagner-Cuban’s 2929 Entertainment since 2003. Landmark describes itself as the nation’s largest specialized theater chain dedicated to independent cinema. At a time when major theater chains have barred movies from Netflix,...
- 10/25/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: A shocker in the prestige theatrical film. Longtime Landmark Theaters president Ted Mundorff has just resigned, sources said. He has been a fixture at the chain and in the exhibition business for close to two decades. Landmark is the largest dedicated specialized theater chain for indie film in the country.
The chain was recently acquired last December by Cohen Media Group’s Charles Cohen, and there had been a sniff of rumor that changes might be made. This is a developing story and we will keep you posted as it unfolds. Landmark has 252 screens in 27 major markets. The next step is incredibly important as Landmark comprises a major part of the prestige film space. The steward of that brand at this challenging moment in time for independents and moviegoing…well the importance here cannot be overstated. Developing...
The chain was recently acquired last December by Cohen Media Group’s Charles Cohen, and there had been a sniff of rumor that changes might be made. This is a developing story and we will keep you posted as it unfolds. Landmark has 252 screens in 27 major markets. The next step is incredibly important as Landmark comprises a major part of the prestige film space. The steward of that brand at this challenging moment in time for independents and moviegoing…well the importance here cannot be overstated. Developing...
- 10/24/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Longtime Landmark Theatres CEO Ted Mundorff has resigned less than a year after the country's largest independent cinema chain came under new ownership, sources confirm to The Hollywood Reporter.
The news is certain to rattle Hollywood studios and indie film companies who have worked with Mundorff at Landmark for more than 15 years. He played a key role in the circuit's expansion and branding, and shepherded the opening of the chain's flagship location in West Los Angeles.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the chain to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by ...
The news is certain to rattle Hollywood studios and indie film companies who have worked with Mundorff at Landmark for more than 15 years. He played a key role in the circuit's expansion and branding, and shepherded the opening of the chain's flagship location in West Los Angeles.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the chain to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by ...
- 10/24/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Longtime Landmark Theatres CEO Ted Mundorff has resigned less than a year after the country's largest independent cinema chain came under new ownership, sources confirm to The Hollywood Reporter.
The news is certain to rattle Hollywood studios and indie film companies who have worked with Mundorff at Landmark for more than 15 years. He played a key role in the circuit's expansion and branding, and shepherded the opening of the chain's flagship location in West Los Angeles.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the chain to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by ...
The news is certain to rattle Hollywood studios and indie film companies who have worked with Mundorff at Landmark for more than 15 years. He played a key role in the circuit's expansion and branding, and shepherded the opening of the chain's flagship location in West Los Angeles.
In December, Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner sold the chain to Cohen Media Group, an indie film company owned by ...
- 10/24/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Cohen Media Group acquired independent cinema chain in late 2018.
Sources have confirmed to Screen that Ted Mundorff resigned suddenly on Thursday (Oct 24) as president of Landmark Theatres, one of the largest dedicated independent cinema chains in the Us.
Charles Cohen, the property mogul, entertainment investor, French cinema aficionado and founder of Cohen Media Group, acquired the chain from 2929 Entertainment last year.
At time of writing it was unclear who would replace Mundorff as president. After Cohen acquired the company in December 2018, Mundorff said on the record, “It’s a great day for the industry. You have a film lover who bought a theater company…...
Sources have confirmed to Screen that Ted Mundorff resigned suddenly on Thursday (Oct 24) as president of Landmark Theatres, one of the largest dedicated independent cinema chains in the Us.
Charles Cohen, the property mogul, entertainment investor, French cinema aficionado and founder of Cohen Media Group, acquired the chain from 2929 Entertainment last year.
At time of writing it was unclear who would replace Mundorff as president. After Cohen acquired the company in December 2018, Mundorff said on the record, “It’s a great day for the industry. You have a film lover who bought a theater company…...
- 10/24/2019
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Following a warning of a potential threat of violence at an upcoming show of Warner Bros.’ “Joker,” movie theater chain Regal Cinemas has said in a statement that no movie is a “cause or signal for violence” but safety will continue to stay the company’s “foremost concern.”
“At Regal, we do not believe the content or the existence of any movie is a cause or a signal for violence,” a spokesperson for Regal told TheWrap. “Nevertheless, although we do not comment on security protocols implemented by our theatres at any time, patron and employee safety is our foremost concern. In collaboration with Nato, we are in regular contact year-round with law enforcement so we have information to help make whatever security assessments they deem appropriate at all times.”
On Tuesday, the U.S. Army Base at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, warned commanders of a potential threat of violence at an upcoming showing of Warner Bros.
“At Regal, we do not believe the content or the existence of any movie is a cause or a signal for violence,” a spokesperson for Regal told TheWrap. “Nevertheless, although we do not comment on security protocols implemented by our theatres at any time, patron and employee safety is our foremost concern. In collaboration with Nato, we are in regular contact year-round with law enforcement so we have information to help make whatever security assessments they deem appropriate at all times.”
On Tuesday, the U.S. Army Base at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, warned commanders of a potential threat of violence at an upcoming showing of Warner Bros.
- 9/25/2019
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Alamo Drafthouse Los Angeles is a long time coming. Initially targeted for 2015, CEO Tim League had to scale back his own big-format ambitions to make it work. Now, it will finally open with a soft launch July 20 at the downtown Le Bloc shopping mall on Seventh and Flower. The 12-screen multiplex (one more screen than Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh) is the 40th Alamo theater. Team Alamo’s task: to lure moviegoers to a new theater complex. It shouldn’t be hard. La is a notoriously under-screened city, and the Regal Cinemas a few blocks away are doing gangbuster business.
Crucially, Le Bloc sits above multiple Metro lines fanning out from Long Beach to Santa Monica. And, typical of Alamo, the cineplex is more than just a place to watch movies; it’s designed to lure locals to hang out at the location. The Video Vortex lobby is crammed with distractions: custom Mondo Hollywood posters,...
Crucially, Le Bloc sits above multiple Metro lines fanning out from Long Beach to Santa Monica. And, typical of Alamo, the cineplex is more than just a place to watch movies; it’s designed to lure locals to hang out at the location. The Video Vortex lobby is crammed with distractions: custom Mondo Hollywood posters,...
- 7/18/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Alamo Drafthouse Los Angeles is a long time coming. Initially targeted for 2015, CEO Tim League had to scale back his own big-format ambitions to make it work. Now, it will finally open with a soft launch July 20 at the downtown Le Bloc shopping mall on Seventh and Flower. The 12-screen multiplex (one more screen than Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh) is the 40th Alamo theater. Team Alamo’s task: to lure moviegoers to a new theater complex. It shouldn’t be hard. La is a notoriously under-screened city, and the Regal Cinemas a few blocks away are doing gangbuster business.
Crucially, Le Bloc sits above multiple Metro lines fanning out from Long Beach to Santa Monica. And, typical of Alamo, the cineplex is more than just a place to watch movies; it’s designed to lure locals to hang out at the location. The Video Vortex lobby is crammed with distractions: custom Mondo Hollywood posters,...
Crucially, Le Bloc sits above multiple Metro lines fanning out from Long Beach to Santa Monica. And, typical of Alamo, the cineplex is more than just a place to watch movies; it’s designed to lure locals to hang out at the location. The Video Vortex lobby is crammed with distractions: custom Mondo Hollywood posters,...
- 7/18/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The movie business is always changing, but these days it can be difficult to tell the difference between struggle and outright decline. The 2019 box office is down nine percent from last year, and soon the theaters’ Netflix battle will be joined by Disney+, Apple+, WarnerMedia, and more. Even Hollywood is worried: Last week, when The New York Times assembled a sprawling collection of influential figures from the film industry to assess the state of moviegoing. The result was a multifaceted collection of alarming messages.
Among the musings that reporter Kyle Buchanan pulled together: J.J. Abrams wonders whether meager returns on “Booksmart” raise the question of “how to protect the smaller films.” Jessica Chastain asks, “What happens to these beautiful, small, dramatic stories?” Jordan Horowitz says, “I don’t feel particularly optimistic about the traditional theatrical experience, especially for independent films.” Ava DuVernay calls the theatrical release “a privilege.” And Joe Russo says,...
Among the musings that reporter Kyle Buchanan pulled together: J.J. Abrams wonders whether meager returns on “Booksmart” raise the question of “how to protect the smaller films.” Jessica Chastain asks, “What happens to these beautiful, small, dramatic stories?” Jordan Horowitz says, “I don’t feel particularly optimistic about the traditional theatrical experience, especially for independent films.” Ava DuVernay calls the theatrical release “a privilege.” And Joe Russo says,...
- 6/28/2019
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
The movie business famously creates curious bedfellows: Consider Olivia Wilde and Charles S. Cohen. Wilde is the gifted actress whose buoyant first-time directing venture, Booksmart, is trying to break the indie film business out of a dismal slump. Cohen is the billionaire investor and art film connoisseur who, as the new owner of the Landmark Theatres chain — the 252-screen hub of the indie world — has a stake in helping Booksmart and its ilk find an audience.
To be sure, Booksmart is not Cohen’s type of movie; he owns 1,000 classic film titles and libraries. Cohen is not Wilde’s type of billionaire; she likes Brooklyn film nerds, not cerebral real estate tycoons. But given the anomalies of the movie business, they need each other.
Cohen had a right to ask, is Booksmart, either the film or its marketing campaign, smart enough? Written, directed and funded by smart young women, Booksmart...
To be sure, Booksmart is not Cohen’s type of movie; he owns 1,000 classic film titles and libraries. Cohen is not Wilde’s type of billionaire; she likes Brooklyn film nerds, not cerebral real estate tycoons. But given the anomalies of the movie business, they need each other.
Cohen had a right to ask, is Booksmart, either the film or its marketing campaign, smart enough? Written, directed and funded by smart young women, Booksmart...
- 5/30/2019
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
Andy Gruenberg, a longtime film-distribution executive who most recently oversaw theatrical distribution for Netflix, died suddenly on January 18. He was 68.
Born in St. Paul, Minnesota on March 10, 1950, Gruenberg spent his childhood in Milwaukee and his working life in the film industry; his tenure included stints at Warner Bros., Columbia, MGM, and Miramax, where he helped bring everything from “Ghostbusters” and “The Karate Kid” to “Leaving Las Vegas” and “Life Is Beautiful” to theaters. Gruenberg was Miramax’s President of Distribution when “Shakespeare in Love” won Best Picture and Executive Vice President of Distribution at MGM when “Leaving Las Vegas” won Nicolas Cage the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Other titles whose theatrical releases he oversaw include “Get Shorty,” “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “The Proposition,” and “Bernie.”
“I loved working with Andy and enjoyed our friendship over many years,” said Ted Mundorff, who co-founded the Film Arcade with him in 2011. “Andy was...
Born in St. Paul, Minnesota on March 10, 1950, Gruenberg spent his childhood in Milwaukee and his working life in the film industry; his tenure included stints at Warner Bros., Columbia, MGM, and Miramax, where he helped bring everything from “Ghostbusters” and “The Karate Kid” to “Leaving Las Vegas” and “Life Is Beautiful” to theaters. Gruenberg was Miramax’s President of Distribution when “Shakespeare in Love” won Best Picture and Executive Vice President of Distribution at MGM when “Leaving Las Vegas” won Nicolas Cage the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Other titles whose theatrical releases he oversaw include “Get Shorty,” “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “The Proposition,” and “Bernie.”
“I loved working with Andy and enjoyed our friendship over many years,” said Ted Mundorff, who co-founded the Film Arcade with him in 2011. “Andy was...
- 1/20/2019
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Veteran film executive Andy Gruenberg, who most recently oversaw theatrical distribution at Netflix, died suddenly on Friday. He was 68.
Gruenberg worked on classic films like “Ghostbusters,” “Karate Kid” and “Silverado” while at Columbia Pictures in the 80s and 90s.
He then moved to MGM where he served as exec VP of distribution. There he watched over releases of “Get Shorty,” “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” and “Birdcage.”
Later, he worked at First Look Studios and Millenium Films before co-founding Film Arcade along with his longtime friend, Ted Mundorff, President & CEO, Landmark Theatres.
“I loved working with Andy and enjoyed our friendship over many years, said Mundorff. Andy was one of the smartest and most loyal guys in the business.”
Andy is survived by his wife, Linda, three brothers, and his sons, Billy, Jacob and Max.
”Andy’s whole family was in the business. He learned from his father and along with his brothers,...
Gruenberg worked on classic films like “Ghostbusters,” “Karate Kid” and “Silverado” while at Columbia Pictures in the 80s and 90s.
He then moved to MGM where he served as exec VP of distribution. There he watched over releases of “Get Shorty,” “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” and “Birdcage.”
Later, he worked at First Look Studios and Millenium Films before co-founding Film Arcade along with his longtime friend, Ted Mundorff, President & CEO, Landmark Theatres.
“I loved working with Andy and enjoyed our friendship over many years, said Mundorff. Andy was one of the smartest and most loyal guys in the business.”
Andy is survived by his wife, Linda, three brothers, and his sons, Billy, Jacob and Max.
”Andy’s whole family was in the business. He learned from his father and along with his brothers,...
- 1/20/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Andy Gruenberg, who had a long career in studio film distribution and most recently was the overseer of theatrical distribution for Netflix, died yesterday at age 68, according to his family.
Gruenberg started his career in distribution at Warner Bros., moving to Columbia Pictures as senior VP and assistant sales manager, working on such films as Ghostbusters, Karate Kid and Silverado.
He then moved to MGM, serving as executive VP from 1991 to 1998. During that time, he managed the releases of Get Shorty, Tomorrow Never Dies, Leaving Las Vegas and Birdcage.
He became president of distribution at Miramax in 1998, where he oversaw the distribution of the Oscar- winning and box office hits Shakespeare in Love and Life is Beautiful.
He later joined First Look Studios as executive VP of distribution in 2005. There, he released The Proposition and Paris, Je t’aime, and Millennium Entertainment, where he successfully executed the release of Richard Linklater’s indie sensation,...
Gruenberg started his career in distribution at Warner Bros., moving to Columbia Pictures as senior VP and assistant sales manager, working on such films as Ghostbusters, Karate Kid and Silverado.
He then moved to MGM, serving as executive VP from 1991 to 1998. During that time, he managed the releases of Get Shorty, Tomorrow Never Dies, Leaving Las Vegas and Birdcage.
He became president of distribution at Miramax in 1998, where he oversaw the distribution of the Oscar- winning and box office hits Shakespeare in Love and Life is Beautiful.
He later joined First Look Studios as executive VP of distribution in 2005. There, he released The Proposition and Paris, Je t’aime, and Millennium Entertainment, where he successfully executed the release of Richard Linklater’s indie sensation,...
- 1/20/2019
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Distributors have several reasons to be pleased that real estate mogul Charles S. Cohen bought Landmark Theaters, the top one being: He’s not a certain red-logoed streaming site.
“He is the only real-estate mogul with a taste for art film, so I can’t think of a more perfectly tailored owner to take a major stake in exhibition,” said a specialized film executive who requested anonymity. “His other great skill is he’s not Netflix.”
Sarcasm aside, it’s a fair assessment. Cohen has the means to support specialized exhibition, and his Cohen Media Group has proven experience and no apparent interest in being a disruptor. He’s also maintaining continuity of purpose and programming by retaining Landmark president and CEO Ted Mundorff, whose team oversees the 252-screen, 27-market circuit.
“(Cohen) approaches the business almost as a philanthropic enterprise, like the brick-and-mortar version of FilmStruck,” said one distributor. “He...
“He is the only real-estate mogul with a taste for art film, so I can’t think of a more perfectly tailored owner to take a major stake in exhibition,” said a specialized film executive who requested anonymity. “His other great skill is he’s not Netflix.”
Sarcasm aside, it’s a fair assessment. Cohen has the means to support specialized exhibition, and his Cohen Media Group has proven experience and no apparent interest in being a disruptor. He’s also maintaining continuity of purpose and programming by retaining Landmark president and CEO Ted Mundorff, whose team oversees the 252-screen, 27-market circuit.
“(Cohen) approaches the business almost as a philanthropic enterprise, like the brick-and-mortar version of FilmStruck,” said one distributor. “He...
- 12/7/2018
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
Arthouse specialist Landmark Theatres has been sold by Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban to Cohen Media Group for an undisclosed price.
The sale ends months of speculation about Landmark’s fate — the company has been shopped around for months, reportedly drawing interest from Amazon, Netflix, and Byron Allen. Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen, a real estate developer whose fortune is estimated to be $3.4 billion, said he will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres.
In an interview with Variety, Landmark Theatres president and CEO Ted Mundorff said he was pleased that the sale had been resolved and also said he was optimistic that Cohen, a cinephile, was an ideal owner.
“It’s a great day for the industry,” said Mundorff. “You have a film lover who bought a theater company… and he’s going to keep the ship running the way it has been going.”
The deal was announced Tuesday by Wagner,...
The sale ends months of speculation about Landmark’s fate — the company has been shopped around for months, reportedly drawing interest from Amazon, Netflix, and Byron Allen. Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen, a real estate developer whose fortune is estimated to be $3.4 billion, said he will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres.
In an interview with Variety, Landmark Theatres president and CEO Ted Mundorff said he was pleased that the sale had been resolved and also said he was optimistic that Cohen, a cinephile, was an ideal owner.
“It’s a great day for the industry,” said Mundorff. “You have a film lover who bought a theater company… and he’s going to keep the ship running the way it has been going.”
The deal was announced Tuesday by Wagner,...
- 12/4/2018
- by Dave McNary and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Arthouse cinema chain Landmark Theatres has been sold by Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner to Cohen Media Group for an undisclosed sum, the company announced on Tuesday.
The purchase ends a long bidding battle for Landmark after the two businessmen put the chain on the block back in April. Cuban and Wagner first purchased Landmark back in 2003, placing it under their 2929 Entertainment banner alongside Magnolia Pictures, HDNet, and Axs TV. A sale of Landmark had previously been attempted in 2013, but no deal was made.
Among those that reportedly considered buying Landmark this year were streaming giants Amazon Studios and Netflix. Netflix backed off preliminary plans to offer a bid and is currently screening their awards contender, “Roma,” at Landmark locations. In August, reports also surfaced that Amazon made a bid. But since the hire of Jen Salke as its new studio head, Amazon has signaled that it is expanding...
The purchase ends a long bidding battle for Landmark after the two businessmen put the chain on the block back in April. Cuban and Wagner first purchased Landmark back in 2003, placing it under their 2929 Entertainment banner alongside Magnolia Pictures, HDNet, and Axs TV. A sale of Landmark had previously been attempted in 2013, but no deal was made.
Among those that reportedly considered buying Landmark this year were streaming giants Amazon Studios and Netflix. Netflix backed off preliminary plans to offer a bid and is currently screening their awards contender, “Roma,” at Landmark locations. In August, reports also surfaced that Amazon made a bid. But since the hire of Jen Salke as its new studio head, Amazon has signaled that it is expanding...
- 12/4/2018
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
After roughly eight months on the selling block, Landmark Theatres is being purchased by Oscar-winning theatrical distributor and producer Cohen Media Group.
Cohen Media Group will acquire the nation’s largest and most prominent stateside independent theater chain, spanning 252 screens in 27 markets.
The announcement was made jointly today by Landmark Theatres President/CEO Ted Mundorff, Cohen Media Group Chairman Charles S. Cohen and Landmark’s previous owners Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban. Cohen will retain Landmark’s senior management team.
Terms of the sale were not disclosed, however, we hear that the deal was worth close to $100M, and it wasn’t entirely in cash, but shares as well.
Landmark boasts premium venues such as 57 West in New York City — which opened last year — the Landmark on Pico in Los Angeles, the Atlantic Plumbing Cinema in Washington D.C., the Landmark at Merrick Park in Coral Gables, Fl, and the...
Cohen Media Group will acquire the nation’s largest and most prominent stateside independent theater chain, spanning 252 screens in 27 markets.
The announcement was made jointly today by Landmark Theatres President/CEO Ted Mundorff, Cohen Media Group Chairman Charles S. Cohen and Landmark’s previous owners Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban. Cohen will retain Landmark’s senior management team.
Terms of the sale were not disclosed, however, we hear that the deal was worth close to $100M, and it wasn’t entirely in cash, but shares as well.
Landmark boasts premium venues such as 57 West in New York City — which opened last year — the Landmark on Pico in Los Angeles, the Atlantic Plumbing Cinema in Washington D.C., the Landmark at Merrick Park in Coral Gables, Fl, and the...
- 12/4/2018
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Senior management team to remain.
Cohen Media Group has acquired Landmark Theatres from Wagner/Cuban Companies, ending months of speculation over who would take over the specialised theatre chain, which at one time had Amazon.com reportedly in the running.
Landmark Theatres is the largest specialised theatre chain in the Us dedicated to independent cinema and comprises 252 screens in 27 markets.
Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres, and Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban of 2929 Entertainment, which acquired the chain from Oaktree Capital in 2003, said they envisioned “little to no impact on our staff or customers.
Cohen Media Group has acquired Landmark Theatres from Wagner/Cuban Companies, ending months of speculation over who would take over the specialised theatre chain, which at one time had Amazon.com reportedly in the running.
Landmark Theatres is the largest specialised theatre chain in the Us dedicated to independent cinema and comprises 252 screens in 27 markets.
Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres, and Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban of 2929 Entertainment, which acquired the chain from Oaktree Capital in 2003, said they envisioned “little to no impact on our staff or customers.
- 12/4/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Senior management team to remain.
Cohen Media Group has acquired Landmark Theatres from Wagner/Cuban Companies, ending months of speculation over who would take over the specialised theatre chain, which at one time had Amazon.com reportedly in the running.
Landmark Theatres is the largest specialised theatre chain in the Us dedicated to independent cinema and comprises 252 screens in 27 markets.
Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres, and Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban of 2929 Entertainment, which acquired the chain from Oaktree Capital in 2003, said they envisioned “little to no impact on our staff or customers.
Cohen Media Group has acquired Landmark Theatres from Wagner/Cuban Companies, ending months of speculation over who would take over the specialised theatre chain, which at one time had Amazon.com reportedly in the running.
Landmark Theatres is the largest specialised theatre chain in the Us dedicated to independent cinema and comprises 252 screens in 27 markets.
Cohen Media Group chairman Charles S. Cohen will retain the senior management team of Landmark Theatres, and Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban of 2929 Entertainment, which acquired the chain from Oaktree Capital in 2003, said they envisioned “little to no impact on our staff or customers.
- 12/4/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Dan Talbot, an exhibitor who brought arthouse films to the residents of New York’s Upper West Side, died last December at the age of 91, leaving a void in the cultural life of the neighborhood and depriving studios of one of the staunchest champions of independent fare.
Lincoln Plaza Cinemas, the dog-eared but much-loved basement theater he owned and operated since 1981, has been closed and left vacant since January while Milstein Properties weighs what to do with the space. In an unfortunate twist, Talbot’s death coincided with the end of the theater’s lease.
“For many of us, it was like we had lost our best friend,” said Norma Levy, an attorney and Upper West Side resident. “Lincoln Plaza played films you couldn’t see anywhere else.”
The closure has also been a blow to distributors, because Lincoln Plaza Cinemas was such a reliable source of box office for more off-beat films.
Lincoln Plaza Cinemas, the dog-eared but much-loved basement theater he owned and operated since 1981, has been closed and left vacant since January while Milstein Properties weighs what to do with the space. In an unfortunate twist, Talbot’s death coincided with the end of the theater’s lease.
“For many of us, it was like we had lost our best friend,” said Norma Levy, an attorney and Upper West Side resident. “Lincoln Plaza played films you couldn’t see anywhere else.”
The closure has also been a blow to distributors, because Lincoln Plaza Cinemas was such a reliable source of box office for more off-beat films.
- 7/9/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
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