Yesterday, September 23, The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) presented virtuoso filmmaker, writer, producer and author Paul Feig with the "Spirit of the Industry" Award. the ceremony took place at The Beverly Hilton and was attended by more than 200 exhibitors worldwide.
"When it comes to believing in the full-on theatrical experience, and the magic that ensues when the lights go down in a darkened auditorium, Paul Feig has no equal," noted John Fithian, President and CEO of NATO. "For our members to be able to say ‘thank you' to Paul for this commitment is a great honor for us."
Paul Feig is unequaled in his support of the industry, having attended five of the first nine CinemaCon events, all dedicated to celebrating the moviegoing experience. He graciously introduced exclusive first looks at the convention of his films Ghostbusters, A Simple Favor and, this year, Last Christmas. CinemaCon also boasted the first industry screenings of Feig's The Heat and Spy.
The "spirit of the Industry" Award was created to honor the achievements, passion, and dedication of singular filmmakers who are committed to the motion picture theatrical experience. This is the second annual award given, with director Rob Marshall receiving the first.
The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 69,005 screens in 103 countries. NATO's membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world and hundreds of independent theater owners, too.
Filed Under: paul feig, nato, cinemacon
