Kino Lorber, a New York-based distribution company specializing in arthouse, world and classic films, has appointed Karolina Dwyer serves as Vice President of Acquisitions.
In her role, Dwyer will be responsible for the company's film acquisitions across theatrical distribution, premium video on demand and partner licensing opportunities, as well as Kino Lorber's own Kino Film Collection streaming service.
Dwyer will report to chief revenue officer Lisa Schwartz, with a team that also includes Nicholas Kemp, senior vice president, theatrical distribution and marketing; Rebecca Winter, partnerships and platforms Vice President of Management; George Schmalz, Vice President of Repertoire and International Distribution.
Originally from Finland, Dwyer joins Kino Lorber from The Yellow Affair, a global sales agency based in New York, London and Helsinki, where she has been CEO since 2018 .
Dwyer began her career in development and production, and has also consulted on international sales and distribution for organizations including the Tribeca Film Festival and Kino Lorber. She is an alumna of the EAVE European Filmmaker Program and Inside Pictures.
“I am very excited to welcome Karolina to the team,” said Schwartz. "Her taste in film and extensive relationships make her the ideal person to guide our acquisition as we continue to bring a bold, independent vision to all audiences who love great movies. I share Nick and Rebecca's enthusiasm for our Excited about the future of the team.”
“We have worked with Karoliina for many years and have always had a great relationship,” said Richard Lorber, founder and chairman of Kino Lorber. "She is a seasoned executive with a keen eye for arthouse films that resonate with a variety of audiences, and we are extremely fortunate to bring her to Kino Lorber and the acquisitions team led by Lisa Schwartz."
Dwyer, meanwhile, said she "has long admired the Kino Lorber brand, which to me is synonymous with great movies." She said she "enjoyed working with the team and knowing first-hand their passion for film and How a filmmaker’s dedication impacts everything they do.”
Kino Lorber's current films include The State Soundtrack, which was shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best Documentary, nominated for the Film Independent Spirit Award and the Gotham Award for Best Documentary, and recently won three IDA Awards and two CinemaEye Honorable Mention; Paul Schrader's critically acclaimed Oh Canada, starring Richard Gere, Uma Thurman and Jacob Elordi; screened at last year's Sundance Film Festival 's hummingbird rescue documentary Every Little Thing.