Film at Lincoln Center, the nonprofit organization renowned for orchestrating the New York Film Festival, has announced the appointment of Daniel Battsek as its new president. Battsek, a prominent film executive from Britain, will begin his tenure in May 2024.

Background and Experience

Before joining Film at Lincoln Center, Battsek served as chairman of the British production company Film4 from 2016 to early 2024. During his time at Film4, he oversaw several critically acclaimed movies, including the Oscar-nominated Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and The Banshees of Inisherin.

He succeeds Lesli Klainberg, who led the organization for nearly a decade before stepping down last year. Battsek’s previous roles include president of Miramax Films and National Geographic Films, where he was integral in releasing notable films such as No Country for Old Men and the documentary Restrepo.

Reflections on Cinematic Culture

In a recent interview, Battsek expressed enthusiasm for the unique position film holds within the cultural framework of New York City. “In many other cities, including London, film is much further down the culture ladder than it is here,” he remarked. His experience in New York has shaped his appreciation for the revered status cinema maintains alongside other forms of art like opera and theater.

Challenges and Opportunities

Battsek’s appointment arrives at a time when the film industry faces a significant challenge, with theaters striving to regain their pre-pandemic audience levels. He acknowledged the competition presented by streaming platforms yet emphasized a growing interest in independent films. As he noted, the success of recent independent releases indicates a promising trend: “If you look at the independent releases like ‘Anora’… all of that builds toward the potential to capture a growing audience.”

About Film at Lincoln Center

Established in 1969, Film at Lincoln Center operates with an annual budget of $15.5 million and employs 85 staff members. It boasts a membership of over 5,300 individuals and offers a diverse range of programming, including the prestigious New York Film Festival, year-round indie releases, and cooperative initiatives with institutions like the Museum of Modern Art.

Timely attendance surged in the last year, as Film at Lincoln Center demonstrated the highest ticket sales for the New York Film Festival in its history. “I think it’s in a really good place,” Battsek stated, addressing the recovery of the organization post-pandemic.

Looking Ahead

Battsek’s vision for his role centers on enhancing the communal experience of cinema. He pointed to the impact of theatrical viewing on audience connection, as articulated by director Sean Baker during an Oscar acceptance speech. Battsek described his goal: “There is a growing appreciation, understanding and connection of younger audiences with cinema.”