Chris Zander–known for his New York-based independent rep firm The Family and prior to that, Zander Reps–has joined production house Backyard as a partner. He’s been an integral part of Backyard, having spent nearly 20 years repping and helping to establish and develop the company. Meanwhile Zander has sold his interest in The Family to partner Diane Patrone who will continue to rep Backyard, among other companies, on the East Coast.
Zander coming aboard Backyard also signals its expansion to New York with the opening of an office there under his aegis to complement its headquarters in Venice, Calif. With responsibilities that include director management and recruitment, overseeing international and national sales and marketing, client relations, creative strategies for growth, and new business development, Zander will split his time between the two offices.
Backyard owner Blair Stribley said of Zander, “Chris and I have worked together since Backyard’s earliest days, and in many ways I have always considered him a partner. He has played a very important and positive role in the growth and direction of our company. Over the years, we’ve had lots of successes, developed a common business philosophy, and become good friends. Having Chris focus all of his energy and experience from the inside as a partner is going to be a very powerful force for Backyard as we guide the company together in the future.”
The Family
Patrone takes over as sole owner and president of The Family which in addition to Backyard handles East Coast representation for such shops as Believe Media, Black Iris, Hunter Gatherer and Imaginary Forces.
Patrone has been key to The Family’s formation and evolution. She launched the firm with Zander eight years ago.
Of Patrone’s importance to Backyard, Stribley related, “She’s been an invaluable, passionate advocate for our work for eight years.”
Imaginary Forces’ co-founder Chip Houghton said of Patrone’s contributions, “In the years we’ve worked together, Diane is more than a traditional rep. She’s a true partner in helping to develop our directors’ careers and is never shy about her opinions. If something needs to be changed, she’s right there telling you way and what to do about it. This is a tremendous help.”
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More