US theatrical distribution now led by David Spitz, appointed as head by Black Bear
In a significant move, Black Bear Pictures has announced the launch of a new U.S. theatrical distribution division, led by industry veteran David Spitz. As head of U.S. theatrical distribution, Spitz will manage up to 12 theatrical releases annually, focusing on a curated slate that blends auteur-driven films with genre and action fare.
With over 18 years of experience at Lionsgate, Spitz has a proven track record of commercial and critical successes, including iconic films such as La La Land, Crash, Precious, The Hunger Games, John Wick, and Knives Out. His expertise in release strategies, deep relationships with exhibitors, and ability to tap into underserved audiences make him an ideal fit for this new role.
Benjamin Kramer, president of Black Bear’s U.S. theatrical distribution division, praised Spitz as one of the most respected executives in theatrical distribution. Kramer expressed his confidence that Spitz’s leadership will elevate Black Bear’s theatrical market impact and awards-season competition.
The formation of this division marks Black Bear’s strategic expansion into the theatrical market. The initiative aims to enhance Black Bear’s presence in awards-season prestige cinema and broaden its theatrical footprint across the U.S., delivering compelling cinematic experiences.
The new division will be active during the Venice, Telluride, and Toronto festivals, looking for acquisitions. This aggressive approach to acquisitions indicates the division’s ambition to make a statement and potentially influence other US distribution companies, particularly those that have been facing challenges due to the pandemic, the rise of streaming, Hollywood strikes, and industry-wide cost-cutting.
Black Bear’s move is not the only one of its kind. The announcement has been met with positive responses in the industry, and several other similar ventures are expected to launch soon. The context suggests that the success of Black Bear’s new division could impact the US distribution sector significantly. However, the article does not provide specific details on how this might occur.
Black Bear recently released Edward Berger's Conclave, Brady Corbet's The Brutalist, Sean Baker's Anora, and Osgood Perkins' Longlegs and The Monkey in its territories. The new division will operate across English-language markets, with operations in London, international sales, productions, and acquisitions businesses, and a theatrical distributor Elevation Pictures in Canada.
It is not specified if David Spitz is involved in the selection of films for the 20th anniversary edition of Fantastic Fest. The 20th anniversary edition of Fantastic Fest will feature Paramount's 'Primate' and Shudder's 'Whistle'.
[1] Variety: Black Bear Pictures Launches New U.S. Theatrical Division Led by David Spitz [2] Deadline: David Spitz to Run Black Bear's US Theatrical Distribution Business [3] The Hollywood Reporter: Black Bear Pictures Launches U.S. Theatrical Division with David Spitz as Head [4] IndieWire: Black Bear Pictures Hires David Spitz to Lead US Theatrical Distribution Business [5] Screen Daily: Black Bear Pictures Launches US Theatrical Division with David Spitz as Head of Distribution
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