Introduction to Christopher Nolan’s New Role
Christopher Nolan, a renowned Oscar-winning director, has been elected as the President of the Directors Guild of America (DGA). He takes over the reins from Lesli Linka Glatter, who served for two terms since 2021. Nolan has been an active member of the DGA and currently serves on its National Board of Directors.
About Christopher Nolan
Nolan is one of the most successful directors of his generation, known for his versatility and bankability in the film industry. He has directed a wide range of films, including genre pics like "Batman Begins" and "The Dark Knight", mind-bending dramas like "Inception" and "Memento", and historical dramas like "Dunkirk" and "Oppenheimer". His recent film, "Oppenheimer", earned him two Oscars.
Nolan’s Statement on His Election
Nolan expressed his gratitude to the DGA membership for entrusting him with this responsibility. He stated, "The presidency of the Directors Guild of America is one of the greatest honors of my career. Our industry is undergoing enormous change, and I look forward to working with the newly elected board to achieve important creative and economic protective measures for our members." He also thanked outgoing President Glatter for her leadership over the past four years.
DGA’s Current Focus
In recent years, the DGA has focused on lobbying for defined safety protocols, particularly in California. The union has urged for a pilot program that would require a security manager for productions supported by the California film and television tax incentive. Additionally, the DGA has been involved in expanding the tax credit in California to include a wider range of productions.
Upcoming Negotiations
The DGA is preparing for upcoming negotiations with the major studios, with a focus on expanding foreign streaming residuals. The union’s current contract runs until June 30, 2026, and negotiations are expected to begin early next year. This will be the first negotiating round with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) under new leadership, with Greg Hessinger taking over as president in March.
Reaction from AMPTP
The AMPTP congratulated Nolan on his election, stating, "We look forward to working with President Nolan to address the most important issues for DGA members while ensuring that our member companies remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry."
Nolan’s Future Projects
Nolan’s next big-screen project is "The Odyssey", an epic adventure film set to be released by Universal Pictures in July. This will be another major undertaking for the acclaimed director, who continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in the film industry.
Election Results
Nolan was elected by 167 delegates representing over 19,500 guild members at the DGA’s national convention. Other elected officials include Laura Belsey as National Vice President, Paris Barclay as Secretary-Treasurer, and various vice presidents and committee members. The full list of elected officials includes:
- Laura Belsey, National Vice President
- Paris Barclay, Secretary-Treasurer
- Todd Holland, First Vice President
- Ron Howard, Second Vice President
- Gina Prince-Bythewood, Third Vice President
- Seith Mann, Vice President
- Millicent Shelton, Fifth Vice President
- Lily Olszewski, Sixth Vice President
- Joyce Thomas, Deputy Secretary-Treasurer
