Daniel Battsek, a highly respected figure in the U.K. film industry, is planning to step down from his position as the head of Film4. He has been with the company for eight years. This news was shared in a message from Alex Mahon, the CEO of Channel 4, which is the parent company of Film4. Battsek will leave at the end of March.
Mahon praised Battsek in the note, saying he has been a great asset to the company and filmmakers. Under his leadership, Film4 has achieved a lot, competing with big international studios and gaining a reputation as one of the world’s most innovative and influential film companies.
Ollie Madden, who currently works as the director of Film4, will take over Battsek’s responsibilities while keeping his current title. Madden and Battsek have worked closely for the past six years.
According to Variety, Battsek’s decision to leave is personal. He plans to move back to the U.S., where he has strong connections and where he lived before joining Film4 in 2016. His previous job was as president of Cohen Media Group. Film4 stated that his departure is not related to the recent budget cuts at Channel 4.
Battsek is leaving Film4 while it’s doing very well. The company has seen success at the box office and in awards seasons with films like the Golden Globes winner “Poor Things,” “All of Us Strangers,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “How to Have Sex.” These films cover a range of styles, from well-known directors to new talents. Last year, they had a big success with The Banshees of Inisherin.
Mahon expressed confidence in Madden taking over at Film4. He said Madden is committed to the company’s goal of taking risks and being innovative, and he has a clear plan for supporting top British talent. Source
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