Film4 Boss Ollie Madden Joining Netflix as Director of U.K. Film

by

In an unexpected development, Netflix has snatched Ollie Madden, who was previously in charge of Film4 and Channel 4’s drama division, to take up the role of their new head of U.K. Films.

Madden, who managed a roster at Film4 featuring Oscar-winning movies like “Poor Things,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “The Favourite,” is set to join the content team supervised by Anne Mensah in Netflix’s London office. In this role, he will be responsible for directing Netflix’s U.K. movie lineup as well as serving as the main point of contact for films within Dan Lin’s portfolio where the intellectual property, talent, and production are based in the U.K. Additionally, Madden will work on creating a select group of series spearheaded by filmmakers.

Madden will leave Film4 and start his new position in October.

As a long-term executive at Film4, I joined the production arm of U.K. broadcaster Channel 4 in 2017. In 2022, when Daniel Battsek was promoted to chair, I was elevated to the director position and took on leadership roles. Last year, upon Battsek’s departure, I assumed full leadership. Additionally, in 2024, I was given a dual role overseeing both Film4 and Channel 4 drama.

For the past eight years, I’ve felt immensely proud working with Film4 and Channel 4 Drama, and it’s incredibly difficult to part ways with my cherished coworkers and projects. The unique identity and high standard of quality that Film4 and Channel 4 embody is a valuable asset, and I trust it will endure even after I leave. I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Alex Mahon and Ian Katz for their unwavering faith and encouragement.

After Madden’s departure, Farhana Bhula, who is the current head of creative and deputy director at Film4, will assume the role of interim Director of Film4 starting from July 1st. At the same time, Gwawr Lloyd, a commissioning editor for drama, will become the interim head of drama and report to Ian Katz. It remains unclear whether Madden’s replacement will encompass both Film4 and Drama roles or if separate individuals will be appointed for each position.

The memo stated that Ollie has been a motivating creative influence, an excellent coworker, and a supporter and friend to many filmmakers. We are extremely thankful for his outstanding efforts and wish him the very best in his future endeavors. Additionally, we congratulate Farhana and Gwawr as they continue to expand upon this impressive collection of work.

Mentioning Madden, he expressed enthusiasm about his new position: “I’m really looking forward to collaborating with Anne and Dan as we develop Netflix’s movie business in the United Kingdom.

Read More

2025-06-03 15:16