Cinema United’s Filmmaker Leadership Council has added two major names to its ranks: Margot Robbie and Jason Blum. Both are three-time Academy Award nominees, and both now sit alongside established producers and directors on the group’s board.
The council is described as a group of producers and directors aimed at championing the future of cinema.
Robbie’s Role on the Board
Robbie is currently in production on the “Ocean’s Eleven” prequel. She is also producing the project under her LuckyChap banner.
She joins a council that already includes Jerry Bruckheimer and Emma Thomas. Charter members include Ryan Coogler, Brad Bird, Jason Reitman and Celine Song. Greg Foster serves as executive director of the council.
Blum’s Franchise History
Blum is the founder and CEO of Blumhouse Productions. The company stands behind some of horror’s biggest recent hits, including the “Paranormal Activity,” “The Purge,” “Insidious” and “Sinister” franchises.
His films are known for creating “incredible — and scary — experiences in theatres,” according to Cinema United’s statement. He joins the council alongside Robbie as a leader in the industry.
What the CEO Said
Michael O’Leary, the president and CEO of Cinema United, welcomed the two additions directly.
“We are thrilled and honored to welcome two leaders like Margot and Jason to this influential group,” he said. “Margot is a global superstar and the voice of a generation who loves movies on the big screen. Jason is beloved by fans around the world for creating incredible — and scary — experiences in theatres.”
He thanked both for their commitment and said he looks forward to working closely with them to advance the industry together.
The Council’s Full Membership
The council’s current membership spans a wide range of backgrounds within the film industry.
Robbie and Blum join a group that already includes:
- Jerry Bruckheimer
- Emma Thomas
- Ryan Coogler
- Brad Bird
- Jason Reitman
- Celine Song
- Greg Foster as executive director
The New Agency’s Name
DDA Talent and Worldwide Production Agency have merged to become Ascent Creatives International. The new name was announced alongside the merger.
The agency’s roster includes Academy Award-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt, known for “Mank.” Also on the roster are Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth, known for “The Social Network.”
Other members include cinematographers Maryse Alberti (“Creed”), Larry Fong (“Watchmen”), John Mathieson (“Gladiator”), Mihai Mălaimare Jr. (“The Master,” “Jojo Rabbit”) and Malik Sayeed (“Clockers,” “Belly,” “After the Hunt”).
Directors on the roster include Michael Goi (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”). Editors include Ian S. Tan (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”). Producers include Chris Smirnoff (“Pluribus”) and Ralph Winter of the X-Men franchise.
The Agency’s Focus
Ascent will represent filmmakers across multiple disciplines. The agency has offices in Los Angeles, the East Coast and London.
Frank Balkin, Molly Bruns, Bill Dispoto, Brian Goldberg, Steve Jacob, Trevor Kossack and Erin Searcy are on the West Coast. Agent Mirand Roseman joins the office there.
Juanita Tiangco is on the East Coast. Barnaby Laws, Estere Sulca and Amber Thompson are located in the U.K.
Miller’s New Role
Shannah Miller has been named senior vice president of marketing and sales for Marcus Theatres. She steps into the role on Oct. 19.
Miller brings more than 20 years of experience in entertainment and content distribution to the position. Her most recent role was vice president of marketing at Fathom Entertainment.
Prior to that, she held leadership positions at Atom Tickets and Sony Music.
What This Means for Cinema
The council’s stated aim is to champion the future of cinema. That means supporting filmmakers who believe in the theatrical experience.
Robbie and Blum are both known advocates of that experience. Their addition strengthens the group’s claim to speak for the industry’s creative core.
Source material: “Margot Robbie and Jason Blum Join Cinema United’s Filmmaker Leadership Council – Film News in Brief,” Variety.
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