Ortenberg has been at the helm of Open Road Films since its inception, almost five years ago. The company was founded by AMC Entertainment and Regal Entertainment Group, the two largest exhibitors in the U.S. Under Ortenberg’s leadership, the company has released a diverse slate of films including the acclaimed film Spotlight, which was named one of AFI’s best pictures of 2015, nominated for three Golden Globe Awards; and is nominated for five Spirit Awards, a PGA Award, a WGA Award and eight Critics’ Choice Awards; along with being named one of best pictures of 2015 by more than 100 critics. Other highlights include The Grey, starring Liam Neeson; End Of Watch, directed by David Ayer and starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña; Nightcrawler, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, which received an Oscar nomination for best original screenplay, along with a Golden Globe nomination; the hit 2014 film Chef, written and directed by and starring Jon Favreau along with Sofia Vergara, Scarlett Johansson, John Leguizamo, Bobby Cannavale, Oliver Platt, Dustin Hoffman and Robert Downey, Jr.; and The Nut Job.
“Tom is the perfect example of the executive who understands that the very best motion pictures need equally creative publicity and marketing to achieve the success they deserve,” said Henri Bollinger, awards committee chairman. “The creative talent he works with know they can depend on receiving the best of these services when he is involved.”
“In a short time Tom Ortenberg has turned Open Road into a supremely successful production and distribution organization,” said ICG president Steven Poster, ASC. “Last year Nightcrawler had everyone buzzing and this year’s Spotlight is many critics’ top choice. He has the touch.”
Prior to the formation of Open Road, Ortenberg spent more than a decade at Lionsgate Entertainment, ultimately serving as president of theatrical films, and served as president of theatrical films at The Weinstein Company.
