Mubi Welcomes Chinese Billionaire Zhang Xin to Board of Directors as Closer Media Invests in ‘The Substance’ Distributor

As a cinema enthusiast who deeply appreciates visionary leaders and innovative companies, I am thrilled about the recent news of Zhang Xin joining Mubi’s board of directors. Her impressive background as a billionaire entrepreneur, arts patron, and Trustee of MoMA, coupled with her strategic acumen and resilience, makes her an exceptional addition to this dynamic team.

Mubi, now established in the U.S. with the broad release of Coralie Fargeat’s “The Substance,” has brought on Zhang Xin as a member of its board of directors, marking a fresh phase for this swiftly growing company. This new chapter will also involve Zhang’s New York-based film production and investment group, Closer Media, investing in Mubi.

As an ardent admirer, I’m proud to share my story about Zhang, a visionary entrepreneur who, along with others, established Closer Media. Prior to this, she was instrumental in co-founding Soho China, a renowned construction powerhouse in Beijing and Shanghai. Known for its awe-inspiring projects designed by globally acclaimed architects, it’s no wonder that the company made a significant impact. In 2022, I chose to embark on a new journey, joining forces with William Horberg, an esteemed producer whose works like “The Queen’s Gambit” and “The Talented Mr. Ripley” have left lasting impressions. Together, we aim to make our mark in the dynamic world of media.

As an art enthusiast, Zhang holds a position on the board at MoMA, and is part of both the Harvard Global Advisory Group and the Asia Business Council.

Speaking as an entrepreneur, investor, and producer, joining Mubi’s board represents a unique chance for me to actively participate in this pioneering venture that is leading the charge within the rapidly advancing film industry. Zhang expressed admiration for Mubi’s forward-thinking strategy in delivering premium content to global viewers, and eagerly anticipates contributing to the company’s continued success.

Efe Cakarel, the head of Mubi, praised Zhang as a remarkable leader who has successfully constructed a fantastic company from scratch, showcasing exceptional foresight and determination.

Cakarel expressed great respect for her, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to learn from her knowledge, strategic thinking, and innovative mindset as our journey of growth and development continues,” (paraphrased statement)

Established in 2007 by Cakarel, Mubi stands as a prominent player in the realm of independent films. Originally starting as a global streaming platform, Mubi has now evolved into a comprehensive production and distribution company, committed to championing director-focused cinema.

The London-based company, with 14 offices globally, recently celebrated a significant success with “The Substance,” a film that has garnered over $75 million at international box offices. Notably, “The Substance” is gaining traction in award circuits as well. Additionally, Mubi is distributing Luca Guadagnino’s “Queer” in various territories such as the U.K., Mexico, Germany, and Turkey, where unfortunately, the film has been recently banned.

Mubi’s lineup of forthcoming films features acclaimed and emerging directors such as Kelly Reichardt, whose movie “The Mastermind” stars Josh O’Connor. Also included are the debut work of Christopher Andrews titled “Bring Them Down,” featuring Christopher Abbott and Barry Keoghan, and Elizabeth Sankey’s production known as “Witches.

Mubi is also involved as a co-producer in several highly anticipated productions, including Jim Jarmusch’s upcoming film “Father ‘Mother Sister Brother’,” starring Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, Cate Blanchett, Vicky Krieps, Indya Moore, and Luka Sabbat; Karim Aïnouz’s “Rosebush Pruning,” featuring Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Jamie Bell, Lukas Gage, Elena Anaya, Tracy Letts, Elle Fanning, and Pamela Anderson; Michel Franco’s “Memory”; and Mia Hansen-Løve’s “One Fine Morning.

Our latest film releases feature an impressive lineup, such as “Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla,’ Andrea Arnold’s ‘Bird,’ Wim Wenders’ ‘Perfect Days,’ Charlotte Wells’ ‘Aftersun,’ Park Chan-wook’s ‘Decision to Leave,’ Joachim Trier’s ‘The Worst Person in the World,’ Lukas Dhont’s ‘Close,’ and Aki Kaurismäki’s ‘Fallen Leaves.’

Apart from creating and sharing movies, Mubi also offers the Mubi Go app for cinema-goers in certain regions, and it manages three podcasts too. Additionally, they have just launched a new publishing division.

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2024-12-06 17:47