Jane Rosenthal, a towering figure in Hollywood and co-founder of the Tribeca Film Festival, recently shared insights from her illustrious career during a lunch at The Greenwich Hotel, albeit interrupted by a noisy bridal shower setup. Known for meticulous planning and execution, Rosenthal’s career has been defined by resilience and innovation, as she has produced notable films such as “The Irishman,” “Meet the Parents,” “Rent,” and “About a Boy.”
Rosenthal emphasized the importance of determination in her journey, recalling the struggles of founding Tribeca shortly after the September 11 attacks. She and her long-time collaborator Robert De Niro launched the festival to uplift their community during a time of great need. However, organizing such an event is increasingly challenging due to shifting industry dynamics, as seen with festivals like Toronto and Sundance facing financial obstacles.
Reflecting on the current landscape, Rosenthal admitted several corporations are now more cautious with their sponsorships, but she remains optimistic. “Art still gets made in difficult times,” she insisted, highlighting the festival’s commitment to addressing the complexities of contemporary culture. The 24th edition of the Tribeca Film Festival, scheduled for June, will feature a diverse lineup including a documentary on Barbara Walters and a new adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon.”
In addition to overseeing the festival, Rosenthal is working on another sequel to “Meet the Parents” and a groundbreaking project reimagining “The Wizard of Oz” for a massive screen in Las Vegas. This production utilizes AI technology to enhance the film’s visuals, making it an immersive experience. Through these endeavors, Rosenthal continues to push the boundaries of storytelling while navigating the evolving film industry.
Her reflections shed light on the artist’s responsibility in today’s socio-political climate, noting that artistic voices are more important than ever. As she balances numerous projects, Rosenthal’s commitment to cinema and its power to connect audiences shines through her work.
Overall, Jane Rosenthal’s journey exemplifies how creativity and resilience can inspire change, providing a hopeful outlook for the future of filmmaking amidst challenging times.