Edward Fletcher has been named CEO of Brit specialty cinema chain and distributor Curzon, replacing Philip Knatchbull who is stepping down on Nov. 15 following 17 years at the company.
The appointment was announced by Charles S. Cohen, whose Cohen Media Group acquired Curzon in 2019.
“Ed Fletcher’s knowledge of the U.K. film market will be invaluable to Curzon as it continues to expand its business and present the world’s finest films to discerning filmgoers,” said Cohen, “Ed’s production experience will allow Curzon to undertake a more active film production role going forward. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Curzon family.”
After managing cinemas across the U.K., Fletcher moved into distribution at ICA Projects before co-founding distributor Soda Pictures in 2002, growing its catalogue to more than 300 titles including acclaimed British, international cinema and documentary films. In 2014, Soda Pictures was acquired by Canadian media group Thunderbird Entertainment, relaunching as Thunderbird Releasing, with the Palme d’Or-winning Shoplifters delivering its biggest hit to date ahead of the company pivoting to television production.
Fletcher went on to develop a new film and TV division for games and publishing company Rebellion before co-founding alongside producer Emma Biggins the new independent production label Beef, which has a slate of projects from emerging British directors currently being packaged. A former board member of Film London, he is currently vice chair at Film Cymru Wales.
“Curzon has an unrivalled film heritage, much-loved cinemas and a culturally leading distribution arm,” said Fletcher. “With the strength and collaborative spirit of owners Cohen Media Group, I look forward to working with the team at Curzon and Charles S. Cohen to continue to bring the best of cinema to audiences to Curzon.”
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