Larry Birstock has been appointed general manager of Universal Studios Digital Services, the studio’s on-lot picture postproduction group. In this newly created position, Birstock will oversee the facility’s operations, administration and sales activities.
“Larry’s depth of experience is a great addition to our skilled team,” said Michael Daruty, senior vice-president, technical operations. “He has a tremendous track record of success with both the creative and technical aspects of postproduction.”
“I am excited to be a part of this talented group at Universal,” said Birstock. “Digital Services maintains a high level of technical expertise joined with great customer service.”
Birstock’s career has spanned senior executive positions at leading postproduction companies such as Post Logic, Technicolor and Deluxe. In these leadership roles, he has been responsible for growing established post facilities and launching new companies in the U.S., U.K. and India.
Universal Studios Digital Services offers film scanning, color correction, digital intermediates, DCP creation, editing, digital restoration, video duplication and conversion, digital effects, quality control and video encoding services for independent projects, television, features and trailers.
The facility is also responsible for the preservation and restoration of the Universal film library and plays a central role in the Studios’ Centennial project. This project involves the extensive restoration of 100 of the studio’s most beloved titles such as To Kill a Mockingbird, All Quiet on The Western Front, Jaws, The Sting, Out of Africa, Frankenstein and Jaws.
