Distribution and exhibition vet Steve Bunnell joins Marcus Theaters as EVP content strategy
Steve Bunnell scored a highly coveted executive act by many on the show, I’m told, post EVP of content strategy at the Marcus Theatre.
What Bunnell brings to the exec position are his years working in distribution (at Universal) and exhibition. He will lead the programming of new releases, alternative content, live events and experiential cinema at 84 Marcus Theater and Movie Tavern locations.
“Excitement and demand to see movies continues to grow, whether it’s the latest blockbuster or the latest indie hit,” said Mark Gramz, president of Marcus Theatres. “As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings, we are committed to creating even more opportunities for our guests to enjoy an out-of-home entertainment experience at the Marcus Theatre. With a long history of working with both film studios and the cinema exhibition industry, Steve will be instrumental in our efforts to develop new guest programs, bring new content to our screens and create new entertainment options to complement the cinema experience.”
“Movie theaters are today’s community entertainment center,” said Steve Bunnell, incoming executive vice president of content strategy for Marcus Theatres. “Whether it’s a big action movie or a concert experience, people want and want to share these moments together. I’m excited to help Marcus Theaters expand our offerings with innovative experiences that bring people to the theater.”
Most recently, Bunnell was head of distribution for Briarcliff/Open Road and CEO of Iconic Event Releasing. He previously led film buying at Alamo Draft House and Regal Entertainment, oversaw programming for the US and Latin America at Cinemark, and was general sales manager at Universal Pictures.
Bunnell starts from March 6 He succeeds Sonny Gourley, who has decided to retire after ten years with the company Bunnell will report directly to Gramz and will be based in Los Angeles, where he also serves as president of the Variety Children’s Charity of Southern California.
