The former 15-year UTA exec and partner Jim Meenaghan has been tapped as COO of Greg Silverman’s Stampede Ventures.
Meenaghan, who served as co-head of independent film and head of MP business affairs at UTA, will oversee day-to-day operations at the studio under founder and CEO Silverman. “Stampede Ventures is the perfect opportunity for me, the timing could not be better. I’m very excited to join such an ambitious company committed to making great, commercial content with a remarkable executive team and culture already in place,” Meenaghan said in a statement on Wednesday.
In 2018, UTA promoted Meenaghan to co-head the independent film group with partner Rena Ronson after he had been with the agency for nine years and leading the motion picture business affairs group. Having stepped down from UTA at the end of 2023, Meenaghan joins Stampede after it unveiled a partnership with Film AlUla studios, while also...
Meenaghan, who served as co-head of independent film and head of MP business affairs at UTA, will oversee day-to-day operations at the studio under founder and CEO Silverman. “Stampede Ventures is the perfect opportunity for me, the timing could not be better. I’m very excited to join such an ambitious company committed to making great, commercial content with a remarkable executive team and culture already in place,” Meenaghan said in a statement on Wednesday.
In 2018, UTA promoted Meenaghan to co-head the independent film group with partner Rena Ronson after he had been with the agency for nine years and leading the motion picture business affairs group. Having stepped down from UTA at the end of 2023, Meenaghan joins Stampede after it unveiled a partnership with Film AlUla studios, while also...
- 5/1/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jim Meenaghan, the former UTA partner and co-head of UTA Independent Film Group, has joined Stampede Ventures as COO and general counsel.
In the newly formed COO position, Meenaghan will oversee Stampede’s day-to-day operations across all areas, and lead efforts to expand strategic relations across film and television, including the recently announced $350m three-year deal with Film AlUla studios.
He will also work closely with joint venture partner RedBird Capital on the multiplatform children’s and family content company Hidden Pigeon Company, and UTA joint venture Happy Nest.
Meenaghan will report directly to founder and CEO Greg Silverman.
Menaghan...
In the newly formed COO position, Meenaghan will oversee Stampede’s day-to-day operations across all areas, and lead efforts to expand strategic relations across film and television, including the recently announced $350m three-year deal with Film AlUla studios.
He will also work closely with joint venture partner RedBird Capital on the multiplatform children’s and family content company Hidden Pigeon Company, and UTA joint venture Happy Nest.
Meenaghan will report directly to founder and CEO Greg Silverman.
Menaghan...
- 5/1/2024
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: UTA partner Jim Meenaghan has decided to step down from his dual roles as the Head of Motion Picture Business Affairs and Co-Head of the Independent Film Group at the end of the year. The details of his departure were revealed in a memo that was recently sent out to staff and obtained by Deadline. Sources add that it was Meenaghan’s decision to leave the agency and a very amicable one as he is very well liked at UTA.
“I’ve had a very exciting and rewarding career at UTA and am truly grateful for the unique roles the agency allowed me to play and the support from really talented colleagues along the way. I’m proud to have been a partner in UTA and feel very comfortable that this is the right time to move my career in a new direction,” said Meenaghan.
Meenaghan has been with...
“I’ve had a very exciting and rewarding career at UTA and am truly grateful for the unique roles the agency allowed me to play and the support from really talented colleagues along the way. I’m proud to have been a partner in UTA and feel very comfortable that this is the right time to move my career in a new direction,” said Meenaghan.
Meenaghan has been with...
- 11/2/2023
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
The public-facing festival runs September 8-18.
For the first time since 2019, the international industry is looking forward to getting back to a fully in-person TIFF where there will be plenty to discuss with old friends besides the invigorating roster of premieres.
Scroll down for acquisition titles
The public-facing festival (September 8-18) is many things and one of them is a conveyor belt of awards season premieres. These get scrutinised by the many awards strategists, buyers and sellers in attendance, who will want to know can these films survive at the box office, and can they sustain box office at times...
For the first time since 2019, the international industry is looking forward to getting back to a fully in-person TIFF where there will be plenty to discuss with old friends besides the invigorating roster of premieres.
Scroll down for acquisition titles
The public-facing festival (September 8-18) is many things and one of them is a conveyor belt of awards season premieres. These get scrutinised by the many awards strategists, buyers and sellers in attendance, who will want to know can these films survive at the box office, and can they sustain box office at times...
- 9/8/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Kristen Konvitz has joined UTA as an Agent in the Independent Film Group division. She will work from the agency’s Los Angeles headquarters, reporting to Partners Jim Meenaghan and Rena Ronson, who serve as Co-Heads of the Independent Film Group.
Konvitz comes to UTA from ICM, where she worked as an Agent in the Independent Film Group. She spent over five years at the agency prior to its acquisition by CAA, there working to structure and arrange financing, assemble and secure distribution for independent films.
Konvitz has brokered distribution deals on dozens of films coming out of such major festivals as Cannes, Sundance, TIFF and SXSW, among others. Her recent projects include Agnieszka Smoczynska’s Cannes Un Certain Regard entry The Silent Twins, SXSW Audience Award winner Pretty Problems, Sundance Best Director winner Palm Trees and Power Lines, and Spike Lee’s American Utopia. Additionally, she has negotiated...
Konvitz comes to UTA from ICM, where she worked as an Agent in the Independent Film Group. She spent over five years at the agency prior to its acquisition by CAA, there working to structure and arrange financing, assemble and secure distribution for independent films.
Konvitz has brokered distribution deals on dozens of films coming out of such major festivals as Cannes, Sundance, TIFF and SXSW, among others. Her recent projects include Agnieszka Smoczynska’s Cannes Un Certain Regard entry The Silent Twins, SXSW Audience Award winner Pretty Problems, Sundance Best Director winner Palm Trees and Power Lines, and Spike Lee’s American Utopia. Additionally, she has negotiated...
- 8/2/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
As the global film industry emerges from the worst of the pandemic — and wide-ranging consolidation in the U.S. puts studio and streaming strategies in disarray — representatives for CAA, UTA and WME Independent say international distributors are more important than ever to their businesses.
That claim will be put to the test at this week’s Cannes Film Festival, where a chaotic domestic landscape, and the absence of China and Russia, could put other international distributors in a good spot after a pandemic-fueled streaming boom saw global deals for films like “Coda” cut these players out.
“What we know is that people who are going into the marketplace are setting up their movies not relying on the U.S. market presenting itself,” one senior agent tells Variety. “I’m not going to say it’s as bad as Russia and China, but really, in their financing plan, there’s a...
That claim will be put to the test at this week’s Cannes Film Festival, where a chaotic domestic landscape, and the absence of China and Russia, could put other international distributors in a good spot after a pandemic-fueled streaming boom saw global deals for films like “Coda” cut these players out.
“What we know is that people who are going into the marketplace are setting up their movies not relying on the U.S. market presenting itself,” one senior agent tells Variety. “I’m not going to say it’s as bad as Russia and China, but really, in their financing plan, there’s a...
- 5/17/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Sarah Vacchiano has joined UTA from FilmNation, signing on to serve as a motion picture business affairs executive for the global talent, entertainment and sports agency.
Vacchiano will be based in the company’s Los Angeles office and report to Jim Meenaghan, partner and head of motion picture business affairs and co-head of UTA Independent Film Group.
“Sarah has a unique knowledge and skill set in the film industry across the constantly changing deal structures of studios, streamers and her specific experiences in the independent film space,” stated Meenaghan, announcing Vacchiano’s hiring. “Our friends at FilmNation could not have been more supportive of her move, and we are thrilled to welcome Sarah to our L.A. team.”
The veteran executive joins UTA after serving as vice president of business and legal affairs at FilmNation Entertainment in New York, where she negotiated production, finance and development deals for the company...
Vacchiano will be based in the company’s Los Angeles office and report to Jim Meenaghan, partner and head of motion picture business affairs and co-head of UTA Independent Film Group.
“Sarah has a unique knowledge and skill set in the film industry across the constantly changing deal structures of studios, streamers and her specific experiences in the independent film space,” stated Meenaghan, announcing Vacchiano’s hiring. “Our friends at FilmNation could not have been more supportive of her move, and we are thrilled to welcome Sarah to our L.A. team.”
The veteran executive joins UTA after serving as vice president of business and legal affairs at FilmNation Entertainment in New York, where she negotiated production, finance and development deals for the company...
- 2/14/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Jake Carter and Travis Tammero have joined UTA as agents in the Independent Film Group division.
Carter will be based in the agency’s New York office, with Tammero working out of its headquarters in Los Angeles. Both will report to Jim Meenaghan and Rena Ronson, Partners and Co-Heads of the Independent Film Group.
“Rena, Jim and I are thrilled to welcome these highly regarded agents to our industry-leading Independent Film team,” said UTA Co-President, David Kramer. “Their broad experience will augment the team in a variety of ways and is especially key in helping to expand our rapidly growing documentary business.”
Carter comes to UTA from 30West, where he served as Vice President, overseeing production on critically acclaimed films including The Mauritanian, Destroyer, Late Night, Ben is Back, Some Kind of Heaven, and the upcoming Chris Pine thriller The Contractor. Prior to 30West, Carter worked at Black Bear Pictures,...
Carter will be based in the agency’s New York office, with Tammero working out of its headquarters in Los Angeles. Both will report to Jim Meenaghan and Rena Ronson, Partners and Co-Heads of the Independent Film Group.
“Rena, Jim and I are thrilled to welcome these highly regarded agents to our industry-leading Independent Film team,” said UTA Co-President, David Kramer. “Their broad experience will augment the team in a variety of ways and is especially key in helping to expand our rapidly growing documentary business.”
Carter comes to UTA from 30West, where he served as Vice President, overseeing production on critically acclaimed films including The Mauritanian, Destroyer, Late Night, Ben is Back, Some Kind of Heaven, and the upcoming Chris Pine thriller The Contractor. Prior to 30West, Carter worked at Black Bear Pictures,...
- 1/4/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Entertainment One (eOne) and Rumble Films, an independent production company founded by Oscar-nominated Whiplash and Nightcrawler producer David Lancaster, have formed strategic financing and development agreement for film and television. Under the new deal, the companies will jointly finance new projects and will give Rumble access to eOne’s distribution base, in multiple territories, as well as Sierra/Affinity’s international sales force.
“Having worked with and enjoyed much success with Nick and Marc and all my friends at eOne for over a decade, I’m excited to join forces and aim for smart commercial projects with the resources to execute on a robust footing,” said Lancaster.
The deal was negotiated by Marc Schaberg for eOne and Lancaster and Jon Shiffman for Rumble with assistance from UTA’s Jim Meenaghan.
Rumble, which currently maintains financial backing from Andrew Schwartzberg, recently produced The Burnt Orange Heresy, a noir thriller starring Claes Bang,...
“Having worked with and enjoyed much success with Nick and Marc and all my friends at eOne for over a decade, I’m excited to join forces and aim for smart commercial projects with the resources to execute on a robust footing,” said Lancaster.
The deal was negotiated by Marc Schaberg for eOne and Lancaster and Jon Shiffman for Rumble with assistance from UTA’s Jim Meenaghan.
Rumble, which currently maintains financial backing from Andrew Schwartzberg, recently produced The Burnt Orange Heresy, a noir thriller starring Claes Bang,...
- 12/18/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: UTA has added Jessica Kantor as an agent in their Independent Film Group.
She will be based in UTA’s Los Angeles offices and report to department co-heads Rena Ronson and Jim Meenaghan.
Previously, Kantor worked as the Evp of Business and Legal Affairs at Imperative Entertainment, where she oversaw all business and legal aspects of film and television production, acquisition and distribution. Prior to Imperative Entertainment, Kantor was the General Counsel at Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s digital initiative, New Form. She also led business and legal affairs at Legendary Entertainment.
Kantor has been recognized on numerous prestigious lists honoring young professionals including The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 35 executives under 35, C-Suite Quarterly’s Next Gen 10, and Broadcasting & Cable’s Top Dealmakers.
UTA’s Independent Film Group focuses on content financing and distribution for independent and co-financed motion pictures. The division helped structure the financing and sales for...
She will be based in UTA’s Los Angeles offices and report to department co-heads Rena Ronson and Jim Meenaghan.
Previously, Kantor worked as the Evp of Business and Legal Affairs at Imperative Entertainment, where she oversaw all business and legal aspects of film and television production, acquisition and distribution. Prior to Imperative Entertainment, Kantor was the General Counsel at Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s digital initiative, New Form. She also led business and legal affairs at Legendary Entertainment.
Kantor has been recognized on numerous prestigious lists honoring young professionals including The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 35 executives under 35, C-Suite Quarterly’s Next Gen 10, and Broadcasting & Cable’s Top Dealmakers.
UTA’s Independent Film Group focuses on content financing and distribution for independent and co-financed motion pictures. The division helped structure the financing and sales for...
- 10/24/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Indie films can still succeed in theaters, but producers and directors must be more creative in selling their films and cooking up stories that will resonate with audiences.
That’s the takeaway from a panel on theatrical distribution that was held at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, a gathering that brought together producers, agents, and distributors.
“You have to really know what your audience is,” said Jim Meenaghan, co-head of UTA’s Independent Film Group. “There has to be sort of that why is this movie getting made? Why does it have to be distributed in theaters?”
The panel was sponsored by the National Association of Theatre Owners, an exhibition industry lobbying group. The organization’s spokesman Patrick Corcoran kicked off the gathering by noting that theaters need to attract a wide variety of different audiences — they need arthouse movies as well as comic book adventures if they’re...
That’s the takeaway from a panel on theatrical distribution that was held at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, a gathering that brought together producers, agents, and distributors.
“You have to really know what your audience is,” said Jim Meenaghan, co-head of UTA’s Independent Film Group. “There has to be sort of that why is this movie getting made? Why does it have to be distributed in theaters?”
The panel was sponsored by the National Association of Theatre Owners, an exhibition industry lobbying group. The organization’s spokesman Patrick Corcoran kicked off the gathering by noting that theaters need to attract a wide variety of different audiences — they need arthouse movies as well as comic book adventures if they’re...
- 1/29/2019
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
As Hollywood gears up to head to Park City, Utah, for the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, one of the questions on everyone’s mind is how busy prominent streamers like Netflix and burgeoning platforms like Apple and Disney+ will be on Main Street.
Two years ago, Netflix and Amazon Studios dominated the indie marketplace with big-dollar acquisitions like “Mudbound” and “The Big Sick.” Last year, however, they had a quieter festival. Netflix picked up a handful of films like “The Kindergarten Teacher,” and acquired others well after the festival, while Amazon bought zilch.
Many indie film buyers and sellers believe that Netflix and Amazon have shifted their focus to their own production as opposed to acquiring titles, but that doesn’t mean the big streamers won’t pounce on a title or two that catches its team’s fancy.
“We go into every festival with our eyes open,” Chan Phung, Netflix’s director of independent film,...
Two years ago, Netflix and Amazon Studios dominated the indie marketplace with big-dollar acquisitions like “Mudbound” and “The Big Sick.” Last year, however, they had a quieter festival. Netflix picked up a handful of films like “The Kindergarten Teacher,” and acquired others well after the festival, while Amazon bought zilch.
Many indie film buyers and sellers believe that Netflix and Amazon have shifted their focus to their own production as opposed to acquiring titles, but that doesn’t mean the big streamers won’t pounce on a title or two that catches its team’s fancy.
“We go into every festival with our eyes open,” Chan Phung, Netflix’s director of independent film,...
- 1/23/2019
- by Beatrice Verhoeven and Trey Williams
- The Wrap
UTA has promoted Rene Jones, Jim Meenaghan, Rich Shuter, and David Spingarn to partner.
They join COO Andrew Thau among the company’s non-agent partners. With these appointments, UTA’s partnership now stands at 58 strong from across UTA’s businesses.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, Rene, and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
The four new partners have a collective 40-plus years of contributions to UTA.
Jones is a 14-year UTA veteran and serves as global head of philanthropy. Since helping launch UTA’s foundation and philanthropic efforts in 2004, she’s spearheaded UTA’s...
They join COO Andrew Thau among the company’s non-agent partners. With these appointments, UTA’s partnership now stands at 58 strong from across UTA’s businesses.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, Rene, and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
The four new partners have a collective 40-plus years of contributions to UTA.
Jones is a 14-year UTA veteran and serves as global head of philanthropy. Since helping launch UTA’s foundation and philanthropic efforts in 2004, she’s spearheaded UTA’s...
- 9/7/2018
- by Justin Kroll
- Variety Film + TV
United Talent Agency had promoted four executives to partner: René Jones, Jim Meenaghan, Rich Shuter and David Spingarn.
They join Chief Operating Officer Andrew Thau as one of the company’s non-agent partners. With these promotions, the agency now has 58 partners.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, René and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
Also Read: UTA Sells Minority Stake to 2 Outside Investment Groups
Jones is a 14-year UTA veteran and currently serves as global head of philanthropy. She helped launch UTA’s Foundation and philanthropic efforts in 2004 and also spearheaded UTA’s Project Impact,...
They join Chief Operating Officer Andrew Thau as one of the company’s non-agent partners. With these promotions, the agency now has 58 partners.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, René and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
Also Read: UTA Sells Minority Stake to 2 Outside Investment Groups
Jones is a 14-year UTA veteran and currently serves as global head of philanthropy. She helped launch UTA’s Foundation and philanthropic efforts in 2004 and also spearheaded UTA’s Project Impact,...
- 9/7/2018
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
UTA has promoted a quartet of senior executives to partner. The agency’s board of directors said today that René Jones, Jim Meenaghan, Rich Shuter and David Spingarn will join chief operating officer Andrew Thau among the company’s non-agent partners.
The appointments boost UTA’s partnership to 58 men and women from across the agency’s businesses.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, René and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
The four new partners have a collective 40-plus years the agency, it said. Here are their bios, per UTA:
Jones, a 14-year UTA veteran,...
The appointments boost UTA’s partnership to 58 men and women from across the agency’s businesses.
“Over the years, we have recruited some of the most talented executives in our industry who have provided our clients and colleagues with the strongest support,” said UTA CEO and board member Jeremy Zimmer. “Jim, David, René and Rich are the best of the best. They bring amazing value to UTA every day and, as we grow, will continue to add invaluable insights and resources to everything we do.”
The four new partners have a collective 40-plus years the agency, it said. Here are their bios, per UTA:
Jones, a 14-year UTA veteran,...
- 9/7/2018
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Albert Lee has joined UTA’s publishing division as an agent based in New York City.
Lee brings nearly two decades of entertainment and publishing experience to the agency. At UTA, he will work to expand the agency’s roster of diverse voices and storytellers, as well as help clients create and leverage original intellectual property across divisions and platforms.
He comes to UTA from independent literary agency Aevitas Creative Management, where his client roster included Gabrielle Union, Vivica A. Fox, tech diversity activist Ellen Pao, and David Lynch Foundation CEO Bob Roth, as well as the estates of Muhammad Ali, Elvis Presley, and Albert Einstein, among others. Prior to becoming a literary agent, Lee served as executive projects director at Wenner Media, parent company to Rolling Stone, Us Weekly, and Men’s Journal. He began his career as a theater and dance journalist for The Village Voice.
The hiring...
Lee brings nearly two decades of entertainment and publishing experience to the agency. At UTA, he will work to expand the agency’s roster of diverse voices and storytellers, as well as help clients create and leverage original intellectual property across divisions and platforms.
He comes to UTA from independent literary agency Aevitas Creative Management, where his client roster included Gabrielle Union, Vivica A. Fox, tech diversity activist Ellen Pao, and David Lynch Foundation CEO Bob Roth, as well as the estates of Muhammad Ali, Elvis Presley, and Albert Einstein, among others. Prior to becoming a literary agent, Lee served as executive projects director at Wenner Media, parent company to Rolling Stone, Us Weekly, and Men’s Journal. He began his career as a theater and dance journalist for The Village Voice.
The hiring...
- 6/6/2018
- by Justin Kroll
- Variety Film + TV
New arrival to partner with current head of UTA Independent Film Group Rena Ronson.
The United Talent Agency (UTA) hierarchy on Friday (June 1) announced that Jim Meenaghan has been named co-head of UTA Independent Film Group.
Meenaghan, who has been with UTA for the past nine years and currently leads its motion picture business affairs group, will co-run the UTA Independent Film Group with long-time department head and partner Rena Ronson. UTA co-president David Kramer oversees the group.
Meenaghan will work with Ronson to expand the team’s global film finance and marketing strategies for independent and co-financed features, and...
The United Talent Agency (UTA) hierarchy on Friday (June 1) announced that Jim Meenaghan has been named co-head of UTA Independent Film Group.
Meenaghan, who has been with UTA for the past nine years and currently leads its motion picture business affairs group, will co-run the UTA Independent Film Group with long-time department head and partner Rena Ronson. UTA co-president David Kramer oversees the group.
Meenaghan will work with Ronson to expand the team’s global film finance and marketing strategies for independent and co-financed features, and...
- 6/1/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Jim Meenaghan will join Rena Ronson as co-head of UTA Independent Film Group. Meenaghan is a nine-year agency vet who currently heads the Motion Picture Business Affairs Group, which is overseen by UTA co-president David Kramer.
Meenaghan continues those duties but will also help Ronson expand its global film finance and marketing strategies for independent and co-financed features, and work with UTA’s Corporate Strategy Group to provide advisory, content financing structures and distribution deals.
“The partnership of Jim and Rena will be a powerful combination for our clients working in the independent market,” said Kramer. “For nearly a decade at UTA, Jim has been indispensable in driving the growth and momentum around our motion picture business. His experience and insight will be an incredible addition to a business that, over many years, Rena has established as the best in the industry.”
Meenaghan will continue to help UTA grow its...
Meenaghan continues those duties but will also help Ronson expand its global film finance and marketing strategies for independent and co-financed features, and work with UTA’s Corporate Strategy Group to provide advisory, content financing structures and distribution deals.
“The partnership of Jim and Rena will be a powerful combination for our clients working in the independent market,” said Kramer. “For nearly a decade at UTA, Jim has been indispensable in driving the growth and momentum around our motion picture business. His experience and insight will be an incredible addition to a business that, over many years, Rena has established as the best in the industry.”
Meenaghan will continue to help UTA grow its...
- 6/1/2018
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Jim Meenaghan has been named co-head of United Talent Agency’s Independent Film Group. He will oversee the department with Rena Ronson, its long-time head.
Meenaghan, a veteran agent, has been with UTA for nine years and is currently in charge of the agency’s motion picture business affairs group.
UTA has been very involved in packaging a number of arthouse and indie films. Projects it has set up include “Lady Bird,” “Call Me by Your Name,” “I, Tonya,” and “The Big Sick.”
In his new post, Meenaghan will be tasked with growing UTA’s global film finance and marketing offerings for independent and co-financed features. He will continue to oversee the company’s motion picture business affairs while also assuming his new role.
Meenaghan and Ronson will report to UTA co-president David Kramer.
“For nearly a decade at UTA, Jim has been indispensable in driving the growth and momentum around our motion picture business,...
Meenaghan, a veteran agent, has been with UTA for nine years and is currently in charge of the agency’s motion picture business affairs group.
UTA has been very involved in packaging a number of arthouse and indie films. Projects it has set up include “Lady Bird,” “Call Me by Your Name,” “I, Tonya,” and “The Big Sick.”
In his new post, Meenaghan will be tasked with growing UTA’s global film finance and marketing offerings for independent and co-financed features. He will continue to oversee the company’s motion picture business affairs while also assuming his new role.
Meenaghan and Ronson will report to UTA co-president David Kramer.
“For nearly a decade at UTA, Jim has been indispensable in driving the growth and momentum around our motion picture business,...
- 6/1/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
United Talent Agency has named Jim Meenaghan the co-head of its independent film group.
The executive joins longtime group leader Rena Ronson in the department, a packaging and finance machine that reports to the agency’s David Kramer.
“The partnership of Jim and Rena will be a powerful combination for our clients working in the independent market,” Kramer said in a statement.
Meenaghan comes over from the motion picture business affairs group, which he’ll still oversee. In his new role, he’ll advise on content financing structures and distribution deals.
Also Read: Cannes Film Market 'Healthy' as New Players Fill Streaming Giant Void
He’ll also work with Asian markets and is tasked with expanding UTA’s footprint in independent animation. The group is also a key player on the festival and awards circuit.
“I’m really happy to take on this new role and work closely with Rena...
The executive joins longtime group leader Rena Ronson in the department, a packaging and finance machine that reports to the agency’s David Kramer.
“The partnership of Jim and Rena will be a powerful combination for our clients working in the independent market,” Kramer said in a statement.
Meenaghan comes over from the motion picture business affairs group, which he’ll still oversee. In his new role, he’ll advise on content financing structures and distribution deals.
Also Read: Cannes Film Market 'Healthy' as New Players Fill Streaming Giant Void
He’ll also work with Asian markets and is tasked with expanding UTA’s footprint in independent animation. The group is also a key player on the festival and awards circuit.
“I’m really happy to take on this new role and work closely with Rena...
- 6/1/2018
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
Blu-ray & DVD Release Date: Feb. 26, 2013
Price: DVD $22.98, Blu-ray $29.99
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Big waves are tackled in a big way in Chasing Mavericks.
The 2012 sports drama film Chasing Mavericks tells the story of real-life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity and his dreams of conquering the biggest waves on Earth with his surfboard.
It all begins when 15 year old Jay (newcomer Johnny Weston) discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, considered to be one of largest and most daunting waves on the planet, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (Gerard Butler, How To Train Your Dragon) to train him to survive it. As Jay and Frosty embark on their quest to accomplish the impossible, they form a unique friendship that transforms both their lives, and their quest to tame Mavericks becomes about far more than surfing.
Price: DVD $22.98, Blu-ray $29.99
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Big waves are tackled in a big way in Chasing Mavericks.
The 2012 sports drama film Chasing Mavericks tells the story of real-life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity and his dreams of conquering the biggest waves on Earth with his surfboard.
It all begins when 15 year old Jay (newcomer Johnny Weston) discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, considered to be one of largest and most daunting waves on the planet, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (Gerard Butler, How To Train Your Dragon) to train him to survive it. As Jay and Frosty embark on their quest to accomplish the impossible, they form a unique friendship that transforms both their lives, and their quest to tame Mavericks becomes about far more than surfing.
- 1/8/2013
- by Laurence
- Disc Dish
Chicago – In the latest HollywoodChicago.com Hookup: Film with our unique social giveaway technology, we have 50 pairs of movie passes up for grabs to the advance screening of “Chasing Mavericks” with Gerard Butler and Elisabeth Shue! The new sports drama is based on the inspirational true story of surfing icon Jay Moriarity.
“Chasing Mavericks,” which opens on Oct. 26, 2012 and is rated “PG,” also stars Jonny Weston, Abigail Spencer, Leven Rambin, Greg Long, Peter Mel, Zach Wormhoudt, Devin Crittenden, Taylor Handley, Cooper Timberline, Maya Raines, Harley Graham and Jenica Bergere from directors Michael Apted and Curtis Hanson and writers Kario Salem, Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper.
To win your free “Chasing Mavericks” passes courtesy of HollywoodChicago.com, just get interactive with our unique Hookup technology below. That’s it! This screening is on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012 at 7 p.m. in downtown Chicago. The more social actions you complete, the more points you...
“Chasing Mavericks,” which opens on Oct. 26, 2012 and is rated “PG,” also stars Jonny Weston, Abigail Spencer, Leven Rambin, Greg Long, Peter Mel, Zach Wormhoudt, Devin Crittenden, Taylor Handley, Cooper Timberline, Maya Raines, Harley Graham and Jenica Bergere from directors Michael Apted and Curtis Hanson and writers Kario Salem, Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper.
To win your free “Chasing Mavericks” passes courtesy of HollywoodChicago.com, just get interactive with our unique Hookup technology below. That’s it! This screening is on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012 at 7 p.m. in downtown Chicago. The more social actions you complete, the more points you...
- 10/20/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Watch new clips from Chasing Mavericks, and interviews with Gerard Butler, Johnny Weston, Leven Rambin and Elisabeth Shue. The 20th Century Fox drama opens on October 26th, 2012 under the direction of Curtis Hanson and Michael Apted. Pic is scripted by Kario Salem from the story by Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper. Chasing Mavericks is the inspirational true story of real life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity (played by newcomer Jonny Weston). When 15 year old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (played by Gerard Butler) to train him to survive it.
- 10/18/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Watch new clips from Chasing Mavericks, and interviews with Gerard Butler, Johnny Weston, Leven Rambin and Elisabeth Shue. The 20th Century Fox drama opens on October 26th, 2012 under the direction of Curtis Hanson and Michael Apted. Pic is scripted by Kario Salem from the story by Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper. Chasing Mavericks is the inspirational true story of real life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity (played by newcomer Jonny Weston). When 15 year old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (played by Gerard Butler) to train him to survive it.
- 10/18/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Check out this new poster from the surfing drama Chasing Mavericks starring Jonny Weston, Gerard Butler and Elisabeth Shue in the 20th Century Fox release which opens October 26, 2012. Curtis Hanson directs with Michael Apted, from the script by Kario Salem, based on the story by Brandon Hopper and Jim Meenaghan. Chasing Mavericks is the inspirational true story of real life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity (played by newcomer Jonny Weston). When 15 year old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (played by Gerard Butler) to train him to survive it.
- 9/25/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Check out this new poster from the surfing drama Chasing Mavericks starring Jonny Weston, Gerard Butler and Elisabeth Shue in the 20th Century Fox release which opens October 26, 2012. Curtis Hanson directs with Michael Apted, from the script by Kario Salem, based on the story by Brandon Hopper and Jim Meenaghan. Chasing Mavericks is the inspirational true story of real life surfing phenom Jay Moriarity (played by newcomer Jonny Weston). When 15 year old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (played by Gerard Butler) to train him to survive it.
- 9/25/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Newcomer Jonny Weston continued to work on the Stephen Elliot movie Cherry alongside James Franco, Heather Graham and Lili Taylor. Weston kept his career momentum rolling by boarding Curtis Hanson’s surf drama Mavericks. Gerard Butler joined the film earlier as surfer Rick “Frosty” Hesson but Weston landed the lead role as teen surfer Jay Moriarty, who learns to ride the multi-story waves and weave the dangerous rocks that comprise the Northern California body of water called Mavericks thanks to Hesson’s mentoring. Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper wrote the script with Hooper and Jim Meenaghan producing with Walden Media.
- 8/13/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Newcomer Jonny Weston continued to work on the Stephen Elliot movie Cherry alongside James Franco, Heather Graham and Lili Taylor. Weston kept his career momentum rolling by boarding Curtis Hanson’s surf drama Mavericks. Gerard Butler joined the film earlier as surfer Rick “Frosty” Hesson but Weston landed the lead role as teen surfer Jay Moriarty, who learns to ride the multi-story waves and weave the dangerous rocks that comprise the Northern California body of water called Mavericks thanks to Hesson’s mentoring. Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper wrote the script with Hooper and Jim Meenaghan producing with Walden Media.
- 8/13/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Newcomer Jonny Weston continued to work on the Stephen Elliot movie Cherry alongside James Franco, Heather Graham and Lili Taylor. Weston kept his career momentum rolling by boarding Curtis Hanson’s surf drama Mavericks. Gerard Butler joined the film earlier as surfer Rick “Frosty” Hesson but Weston landed the lead role as teen surfer Jay Moriarty, who learns to ride the multi-story waves and weave the dangerous rocks that comprise the Northern California body of water called Mavericks thanks to Hesson’s mentoring. Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper wrote the script with Hooper and Jim Meenaghan producing with Walden Media.
- 8/13/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
In February, we reported that Gerard Butler was cast as the lead in the Curtis Hanson-directed surf movie Mavericks, the film about "Jay Moriarty, the teenage big wave rider who successfully rode Mavericks. That is a body of water in Northern California that became popular with daredevil surfers who braved the structure and rocks to ride waves the size of five-story buildings." Deadline reports that Twenty-two year-old Jonny Weston has been offered the coveted role and is currently in talks for the Walden Media film.
The script was penned by Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper, and Hooper is producing with Jim Meenaghan. Butler plays "Rick "Frosty" Hesson, the mentor who trained Moriarty to ride the Mavericks when the surfer was just 16. Though Moriarity survived those impossible waves, he died at 22 in a diving accident. But he remains an inspiration to surfers, who coined the phrase "Live like Jay."
Weston...
The script was penned by Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper, and Hooper is producing with Jim Meenaghan. Butler plays "Rick "Frosty" Hesson, the mentor who trained Moriarty to ride the Mavericks when the surfer was just 16. Though Moriarity survived those impossible waves, he died at 22 in a diving accident. But he remains an inspiration to surfers, who coined the phrase "Live like Jay."
Weston...
- 8/13/2011
- by Tiberius
- GeekTyrant
Exclusive: While Gerard Butler was announced as the big name in the Curtis Hanson-directed surf movie Mavericks, the lead role all the young actors chased is Jay Moriarty, the teenage big-wave rider who successfully rode Mavericks. That is a body of water in Northern California that became popular with daredevil surfers who braved the structure and rocks to ride waves the size of five-story buildings. Twenty-two year-old Jonny Weston has been offered and is in negotiations for the lead role of Moriarty in the Walden Media-backed film. Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper wrote the script and Hooper is producing with Jim Meenaghan. Butler plays Rick "Frosty" Hesson, the mentor who trained Moriarty to ride the Mavericks when the surfer was just 16. Though Moriarity survived those impossible waves, he died at 22 in a diving accident. But he remains an inspiration to surfers, who coined the phrase "Live like Jay." Weston's is currently shooting Cherry,...
- 8/13/2011
- by MIKE FLEMING
- Deadline
Gerard Butler ("300") is tipped to portray Rick "Frosty" Hesson in Curtis Hanson's upcoming surfing feature "Mavericks" for Walden Media and Lakeshore Entertainment reports Deadline.
The story follows the late Jay Moriarity and his quest to ride the iconic Northern California break known as Mavericks, where winter swells bring in treacherous waves the size of five-story buildings.
Moriarity trained for over a year under Hesson, a friendship that transformed both their lives. Moriarity, who died in 2001 in a diving accident in the Maldives, remains an inspiration to surfers around the globe
Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper penned the script while Hanson, Hooper and Jim Meenaghan are producing. Shooting's expected to kick off in October.
The story follows the late Jay Moriarity and his quest to ride the iconic Northern California break known as Mavericks, where winter swells bring in treacherous waves the size of five-story buildings.
Moriarity trained for over a year under Hesson, a friendship that transformed both their lives. Moriarity, who died in 2001 in a diving accident in the Maldives, remains an inspiration to surfers around the globe
Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper penned the script while Hanson, Hooper and Jim Meenaghan are producing. Shooting's expected to kick off in October.
- 2/12/2011
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Curtis Hanson is set to direct surfing drama "Mavericks" for Walden Media. Brandon Hooper and Jim Meenaghan are producing. Based on Hooper's script, the story tells of the late Jay Moriarity and his quest to ride the iconic Northern California break known as Mavericks. Here, winter swells bring in treacherous waves the size of five-story buildings. Moriarty trained with his mentory Frosty Hesson for more than a year and the two forged a unique relationship that changed both their lives. Moriarity's story is one of inspiration to surfers worldwide who have coined the phrase, "Live like Jay." Moriarty died in 2001 in a diving accident in the Maldive Islands. Kario Salem wrote the previous draft.
- 4/1/2010
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Veteran business affairs executives Jim Meenaghan and Rich Shuter have joined UTA's business affairs department and been named heads of motion picture business affairs and television business affairs, respectively.
Meenaghan, mostly recently of Walden Media, will oversee business affairs for the agency's motion picture operations. Rich Shuter, most recently of DreamWorks TV, will oversee business affairs for the agency's TV department.
"Jim and Rich are respected executives whose depth of experience and relationships throughout our industry will be tremendous assets to our growing team at UTA," UTA chairman Jim Berkus said.
Meenaghan, mostly recently of Walden Media, will oversee business affairs for the agency's motion picture operations. Rich Shuter, most recently of DreamWorks TV, will oversee business affairs for the agency's TV department.
"Jim and Rich are respected executives whose depth of experience and relationships throughout our industry will be tremendous assets to our growing team at UTA," UTA chairman Jim Berkus said.
- 1/18/2009
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Walden Media has picked up a untitled treatment by Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper for a feature that is set against the backdrop of Maverick's, home to one of the largest and most dangerous surf breaks on the planet.
Daniel Barnz and Ned Zeman have been hired to write the screenplay for the film, which will be produced by Meenaghan and Hooper.
The story is based on the true adventures of surfing wonderboy Jay Moriarity, who while still a teenager took on the waves at Northern California surfing jewel Maverick's, where the winter swells pull in waves five stories tall. He had prodded wise surfing elder Rick "Frosty" Hesson to prepare him, and after finally relenting, the local legend put Moriarity through a program of intense physical training.
Moriarity died a day before his 23rd birthday in a free-diving accident.
Meenaghan is executive vp business and legal affairs at Walden Media, and Hooper is an independent writer-producer.
Daniel Barnz and Ned Zeman have been hired to write the screenplay for the film, which will be produced by Meenaghan and Hooper.
The story is based on the true adventures of surfing wonderboy Jay Moriarity, who while still a teenager took on the waves at Northern California surfing jewel Maverick's, where the winter swells pull in waves five stories tall. He had prodded wise surfing elder Rick "Frosty" Hesson to prepare him, and after finally relenting, the local legend put Moriarity through a program of intense physical training.
Moriarity died a day before his 23rd birthday in a free-diving accident.
Meenaghan is executive vp business and legal affairs at Walden Media, and Hooper is an independent writer-producer.
- 7/19/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NEW YORK -- Tim Robbins, Martin Landau, Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Harry Treadaway will star opposite Bill Murray and Toby Jones in 20th Century Fox's fantasy City of Ember from Walden Media/Playtone and producers Gary Goetzman and Tom Hanks.
In Gil Kenan's film, Robbins will play an inventor holding a secret to the magical, glitteringly lit city whose power generator is failing. Landau will play the boss of Robbins' character's teen son (Treadaway), who works at the city's mysterious Pipeworks as the son seeks to save the city with a fellow teen. Jean-Baptiste will play a tough greenhouse worker.
Walden head of production Alex Schwartz and creative executive Bonnie Solomon are overseeing the film, which is set for an October 2008 theatrical release through Fox. Fox Walden, a joint venture of the studio and production company, will handle marketing.
Shooting is under way in Belfast, Ireland. Summit Entertainment is handling international sales.
Robbins, an Oscar winner for Mystic River, will appear in Lionsgate Films' upcoming The Return. Landau, an Oscar winner for Ed Wood, has appeared in Crimes and Misdemeanors and in guest appearances on HBO's Entourage and the upcoming indie Harrison Montgomery. Jean-Baptiste, an Oscar-nominee for Secrets and Lies, stars on CBS' Without a Trace. Treadaway starred with his twin brother Luke Treadaway in Brothers of the Head and now appears on Showtime's Meadowlands.
Walden executive vp business and legal affairs Jim Meenaghan negotiated the deals for the company.
In Gil Kenan's film, Robbins will play an inventor holding a secret to the magical, glitteringly lit city whose power generator is failing. Landau will play the boss of Robbins' character's teen son (Treadaway), who works at the city's mysterious Pipeworks as the son seeks to save the city with a fellow teen. Jean-Baptiste will play a tough greenhouse worker.
Walden head of production Alex Schwartz and creative executive Bonnie Solomon are overseeing the film, which is set for an October 2008 theatrical release through Fox. Fox Walden, a joint venture of the studio and production company, will handle marketing.
Shooting is under way in Belfast, Ireland. Summit Entertainment is handling international sales.
Robbins, an Oscar winner for Mystic River, will appear in Lionsgate Films' upcoming The Return. Landau, an Oscar winner for Ed Wood, has appeared in Crimes and Misdemeanors and in guest appearances on HBO's Entourage and the upcoming indie Harrison Montgomery. Jean-Baptiste, an Oscar-nominee for Secrets and Lies, stars on CBS' Without a Trace. Treadaway starred with his twin brother Luke Treadaway in Brothers of the Head and now appears on Showtime's Meadowlands.
Walden executive vp business and legal affairs Jim Meenaghan negotiated the deals for the company.
- 7/13/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NEW YORK -- Penguin Young Readers Group and Walden Media jointly acquired North American rights to Ingrid Law's debut novel, Savvy, with Walden Media set to adapt the book into a feature film.
Savvy, set for publication in May by Dial Books for Young Readers/Walden Media, follows family members who gain different magical powers (such as making the world windy or rainy) on their 13th birthdays. But before a young daughter learns what her power will be, tragedy strikes the family, leading the children to race against time to avoid a perilous situation.
The acquisition is part of a pre-emptive multibook deal with book agency Writers House. Walden Media head of production Alex Schwartz will oversee development of the film adaptation for his company.
Law wrote and illustrated two e-books for children, The Faerie Wedding Tale and A Quilt for Uncle Paul.
Executive vp business and legal affairs Jim Meenaghan negotiated the film rights on behalf of Walden Media.
Savvy, set for publication in May by Dial Books for Young Readers/Walden Media, follows family members who gain different magical powers (such as making the world windy or rainy) on their 13th birthdays. But before a young daughter learns what her power will be, tragedy strikes the family, leading the children to race against time to avoid a perilous situation.
The acquisition is part of a pre-emptive multibook deal with book agency Writers House. Walden Media head of production Alex Schwartz will oversee development of the film adaptation for his company.
Law wrote and illustrated two e-books for children, The Faerie Wedding Tale and A Quilt for Uncle Paul.
Executive vp business and legal affairs Jim Meenaghan negotiated the film rights on behalf of Walden Media.
- 7/12/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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