Lori Rick, MacGillivray Freeman Films, Laguna Beach, CA

Distribution Category

Statement of Purpose

After more than 20 years in the giant screen industry, I remain as passionate as ever about the positive impact our films and educational programs can have on audiences of all ages. I believe that experiencing a giant screen film within the trusted environment of the world’s museums and science centers is one of the most powerful and meaningful educational experiences we can offer. One of the great strengths of our industry is its collaborative spirit—a community of filmmakers, distributors, exhibitors, and partners who share a commitment to innovation, excellence, and creating experiences that inspire and educate.

I would be honored to serve on the GSCA Board and bring my experience in film distribution, marketing, communications, educational outreach, and audience engagement to help strengthen both the organization and our industry. I am particularly interested in how we can broaden our audiences, support exhibitors, champion exceptional filmmaking, and communicate the unique value of the giant screen experience in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.

I believe deeply in what our industry has to offer. I would welcome the opportunity to work alongside my GSCA colleagues to help ensure that the giant screen experience continues to evolve, thrive, and inspire audiences for generations to come.

Biography

Lori oversees global marketing and communications for MacGillivray Freeman Films and brings more than 30 years of experience in entertainment marketing, communications and public relations, including more than 20 years in the giant screen industry.  A key member of the MFF Distribution team, Lori works closely with filmmakers, exhibitors, sponsors, nonprofit organizations and educational partners, developing integrated campaigns designed to build audiences, support theaters and extend the educational impact of each film beyond the screen.  After an early career in book marketing at St. Martin’s Press and other publishers, Lori joined the MFF team in 1998 where she was part of the company’s blockbuster campaign for Everest. She also oversaw the Academy Award campaign for Dolphins, which received an Oscar nomination for Best Documentary Short Subject, and has worked on PR campaigns with such celebrity narrators as Meryl Streep, Liam Neeson, Morgan Freeman, Matthew McConaughey, Ryan Reynolds, Cate Blanchett, Ewan McGregor and John Krasinski.  Lori has also developed custom activation campaigns with such international brands and partners as Coca-Cola, Expedia, Subaru, Kohler, Teva, Pacific Life, Warner Bros, IMAX Corporation, World Wildlife Federation, CNN, Brand USA and more.  Some of her personal highlights include overseeing the hugely successful launch of National Parks Adventure, the highest grossing documentary of 2016, and Apollo 11: First Steps Edition, coinciding with NASA’s 50th anniversary celebration of its moon landing. Lori has a master’s degree in English from New York University and loves reading books, hiking with her dogs and two teenagers, and spending time with family and friends.