What's Happening?
Film Forum, a renowned nonprofit cinema in downtown Manhattan, has appointed Tabitha Jackson, former head of the Sundance Film Festival, as its new director. Jackson, who will assume her role on February 23, brings over 30 years of experience in independent and non-profit media. Her tenure at Sundance was marked by her leadership during the global pandemic, where she successfully transitioned the festival to a digital format, significantly expanding its audience and accessibility. Jackson's career began at the BBC, and she has held various influential positions, including roles at Channel 4 and Film4 in the UK. Her appointment follows a national search led by Film Forum's board chair, Gray Coleman.
Why It's Important?
Tabitha Jackson's appointment as director of
Film Forum is significant for the independent film community. Her extensive experience and innovative approach to film festivals, particularly her success in expanding Sundance's reach during the pandemic, suggest she will bring fresh perspectives to Film Forum. This transition is crucial as Film Forum continues to navigate the evolving landscape of film distribution and exhibition. Jackson's leadership is expected to enhance Film Forum's reputation for bold curation and programming, potentially attracting new audiences and fostering greater inclusivity in the film industry.
What's Next?
As Tabitha Jackson steps into her new role, she is likely to focus on maintaining and expanding Film Forum's legacy of showcasing diverse and independent films. Her previous work suggests she may introduce new initiatives to further engage underrepresented communities and explore digital platforms to broaden the cinema's reach. Stakeholders in the independent film sector will be watching closely to see how Jackson's leadership influences Film Forum's programming and audience engagement strategies.
