The departure of Wendy Lidell, the SVP of Theatrical Acquisitions & Distribution at Kino Lorber, marks the end of an era at the indie distributor. Lidell has been with the company for eight years, overseeing all theatrical acquisitions and distribution efforts. Her departure at the end of June will leave a significant gap in the company’s leadership team.
Interim Leadership
In the interim, the company’s Chief Revenue Officer Lisa Schwartz will step in to oversee theatrical distribution and acquisitions. Schwartz, along with President Ed Carroll, will be tasked with filling the void left by Lidell’s departure. This change in leadership comes at a crucial time for Kino Lorber, as they look to navigate the evolving landscape of independent film distribution.
Legacy of Wendy Lidell
During her time at Kino Lorber, Wendy Lidell shepherded three documentaries to Oscar nominations, showcasing her keen eye for quality filmmaking. Her accomplishments include the release of acclaimed films such as “Fire at Sea,” “Of Fathers and Sons,” and “Four Daughters.” Lidell’s legacy at the company is a testament to her passion for cinema and her ability to identify and promote impactful storytelling.
Prior to her tenure at Kino Lorber, Lidell served as the president of International Film Circuit, where she introduced filmmakers like Alexander Sokurov, Raúl Ruiz, and Nanni Moretti to the U.S. market. Her extensive experience in the industry and her knack for discovering talent have been instrumental in shaping Kino Lorber’s theatrical lineup over the years.
Impact on the Company
The departure of Wendy Lidell will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Kino Lorber’s operations. Her departure leaves behind a legacy of success and innovation that will be hard to replicate. The company will need to carefully consider how to move forward without her leadership and expertise in the theatrical acquisitions and distribution space.
As Kino Lorber prepares for the departure of Wendy Lidell, the company faces a period of transition and change. The interim leadership team will need to work together to maintain the company’s reputation for quality and excellence in independent film distribution. While Lidell’s departure marks the end of an era, it also presents an opportunity for new growth and development within the company.