New York-Based Film Distributor Kino Lorber Taps Karoliina Dwyer as Vice President of Acquisitions (EXCLUSIVE)
Kino Lorber, a New York-based distribution company specialized in arthouse movies, world cinema and classics, has appointed Karoliina Dwyer as vice president of acquisitions.
In her role, Dwyer will oversee film acquisitions for the company across theatrical releases, pay-VOD and partner licensing opportunities, as well as Kino Lorber’s own Kino Film Collection streaming service.
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Dwyer will report to chief revenue officer Lisa Schwartz, whose team also includes Nicholas Kemp, senior VP of theatrical distribution and marketing; Rebecca Winter, VP of partnerships and platform management; and George Schmalz, VP of repertory and international distribution.
Originally from Finland, Dwyer joins Kino Lorber from The Yellow Affair, a New York, London and Helsinki-based world sales agent where she has served as CEO since 2018.
Dwyer began her career working in development and production, and she has also consulted on international sales and distribution for several organizations including Tribeca Film Festival and Kino Lorber, among others. She is an Alumni of EAVE European Producers Programme and Inside Pictures.
“I couldn’t be happier to welcome Karoliina to the team,” said Schwartz. “Her taste in film and extensive relationships make her the ideal person to guide our acquisitions as we continue to bring bold, independent visions to all audiences who love great films. Along with Nick and Rebecca, I’m excited for what the future holds for our team.”
“We’ve worked with Karoliina over the years and always found a great rapport with her,” said Richard Lorber, founder and chairman, Kino Lorber. “She’s a seasoned executive with an eye for arthouse films that can resonate with audiences of all kinds, and we’re very fortunate to bring her to Kino Lorber and our acquisition team so ably led by Lisa Schwartz.”
Dwyer, meanwhile, said she’s “long admired the Kino Lorber brand, which to me is synonymous with great cinema.” She said she’s “enjoyed working with this team and know firsthand how their dedication to film and to filmmakers shapes everything they do.”
Kino Lorber’s current releases include “Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat,” which is shortlisted for the Academy Award for best documentary feature, has received nominations for best documentary feature from the Film Independent Spirit Awards and the Gotham Awards, and recently won three IDA Awards and two Cinema Eye Honors; Paul Schrader’s acclaimed “Oh, Canada,” starring Richard Gere, Uma Thurman and Jacob Elordi; and hummingbird rescue documentary “Every Little Thing” which played at last year’s Sundance Film Festival.
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