‘Gangs of London’ Producer Thomas Benski Launches Talent, IP Banner Lumina — Global Bulletin

Benski Launches Lumina

As a seasoned film enthusiast with a penchant for discerning the trends and trajectories of the ever-evolving cinematic landscape, I find myself thoroughly intrigued by these latest developments. Thomas Benski’s launch of Lumina, a talent and IP banner that promises to support and grow companies in the modern media and consumer landscape, strikes me as an audacious yet strategically sound move. With a rich past experience at Pulse Films under his belt, I have no doubt that Benski is well-equipped to shape the future of this new venture.

Thomas Benski, previously head of Pulse Films, has established Lumina, a new talent and intellectual property (IP) label. Based in London, New York, Paris, and Los Angeles, this venture asserts it was constructed to boost and expand companies within today’s media and consumer environment where talent, IP, and brand are crucial factors for growth. It kicks off with an initial investment in the tens of millions.

Lumina plans to concentrate on studios that leverage talent, content production for kids and families, as well as consumer brands. Lumina has already joined forces with Carrousel Studios and Yann Demange’s Wayward Films (“’71,” “Top Boy”). In the realm of children’s and family entertainment, Lumina supports gaming studio Creators Corp. and kids IP business Strike. Their consumer sector backs brands such as Metie and DAACI, with their new film studio, Magna Studios, led by former Pulse executives Marisa Clifford and Davud Karbassioun, aiming to create content across branded material, documentaries, and scripted narratives.

In Benski’s words, “The media world is changing rapidly right now, and we think this is the perfect moment to establish companies that look towards the future. Leveraging our extensive knowledge from the past, we are constructing solutions for today to mold tomorrow.” His notable works at Pulse include “Gangs of London,” “Pig,” and “Beastie Boys Story.

Knatchbull Return to Curzon

In late 2023, Philip Knatchbull, who had served as CEO of the U.K.-based Curzon (an exhibitor, distributor, and streamer) for nearly 18 years, was appointed as interim executive chairman for the company.

The meeting takes place following the recent acquisition of the company by Fortress Investment Group, which occurred after they foreclosed on it from Charles Cohen’s Cohen Media Group in an auction involving several assets, including the Landmark cinema chain. This transaction followed a loan of $534 million that Fortress had given to Cohen, which he subsequently defaulted on, leading to a lawsuit. Cohen had purchased Curzon at the end of 2019 during a period of active U.S. real estate development.

Knatchbull expressed great enthusiasm for the upcoming phase of the Curzon venture, eagerly anticipating reconnecting with numerous team members in his fresh position. For nearly 18 years, he has been instrumental in shaping Curzon into the highly esteemed brand it is today. He has faith in the group he put together and possesses an intimate understanding of both the company and the industry. Returning during a crucial period for the sector, Knatchbull is confident that Curzon will excel as a strategic and cultural trailblazer.

The business manages a chain of 16 Curzon Cinemas, which collectively have 46 movie screens spread throughout the United Kingdom, in addition to Curzon Film, a film distribution entity, and Curzon Home Cinema, an online movie streaming platform.

Okonedo Gets BIFA Honor

Sophie Okonedo, a renowned actress on both the British stage and screen who was nominated for an Oscar for her role in “Hotel Rwanda,” will be honored with the Richard Harris Award at the 2024 British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs) on December 8.

The Richard Harris Award honors exceptional work by an actor in the realm of British cinema. Notable past recipients include Samantha Morton, Riz Ahmed, Kristin Scott Thomas, Judi Dench, Vanessa Redgrave, Daniel Day-Lewis, Helena Bonham Carter, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Julie Walters, John Hurt, Emma Thompson, Jim Broadbent, and, more recently, Stephen Graham. (Given in 2023)

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2024-12-02 16:16