Boardwalk Pictures Company Profile
Background
Boardwalk Pictures, founded in 2010 by CEO Andrew Fried, is an award-winning production company specializing in non-fiction, character-driven entertainment. The company has been instrumental in transforming non-fiction storytelling into a major draw for global audiences. With over 20 Emmy nominations and four wins, Boardwalk Pictures has produced acclaimed titles such as Chef’s Table, Cheer, Welcome to Wrexham, Val, The Black Godfather, The Big Brunch, We Need to Talk About Cosby, and Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?. The company collaborates with major streaming platforms and premium networks to deliver groundbreaking content.
Key Strategic Focus
Boardwalk Pictures focuses on creating high-quality, non-fiction content that resonates with diverse audiences. The company's core objectives include expanding its portfolio of character-driven documentaries and series, leveraging cinematic storytelling techniques, and exploring new genres and formats. By partnering with various streaming platforms and networks, Boardwalk Pictures aims to broaden its reach and impact in the entertainment industry.
Financials and Funding
In February 2023, Boardwalk Pictures received a minority growth investment from Shamrock Capital, a Los Angeles-based investment firm specializing in media, entertainment, communications, and related sectors. This partnership provides additional capital and expertise to support Boardwalk's strategic initiatives and growth plans. The investment aims to help the company expand its team and slate of projects, further solidifying its position in the non-fiction entertainment market.
Pipeline Development
Boardwalk Pictures has a diverse and growing slate of projects, including:
- Chef’s Table: A critically acclaimed series that profiles renowned chefs and their culinary creations.
- Cheer: A documentary series following the competitive cheerleading team at Navarro College.
- Welcome to Wrexham: A docuseries chronicling the journey of actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as they take ownership of a Welsh football club.
- Val: A documentary about actor Val Kilmer's life and career.
- The Black Godfather: A film exploring the life of music executive Clarence Avant.
- The Big Brunch: A culinary competition series.
- We Need to Talk About Cosby: A documentary examining the complex legacy of Bill Cosby.
- Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?: A docuseries recounting the story of a young man's attempt to win a Harrier jet through a Pepsi promotional campaign.
These projects are at various stages of development and release, with ongoing collaborations with major streaming platforms and networks.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Boardwalk Pictures distinguishes itself through its commitment to cinematic storytelling in the non-fiction genre. The company employs advanced filming techniques, high-quality production values, and innovative narrative structures to create engaging content. By embracing new technologies and storytelling methods, Boardwalk Pictures continues to push the boundaries of non-fiction entertainment.
Leadership Team
- Andrew Fried: Founder and CEO. Under his leadership, Boardwalk Pictures has become a leading producer of non-fiction content, earning multiple awards and critical acclaim.
- Jordan Wynn: President of Boardwalk Studios. He leads the company's film division, focusing on expanding its presence in the film industry.
- Dane Lillegard: Executive Vice President of Production and Operations. He oversees the company's production processes and operational strategies.
- Aaron Lovell: Senior Vice President of Post Production. He manages the post-production aspects of the company's projects.
- Lana Barkin: Vice President of Current Originals. She focuses on the development and management of the company's original content.
- Ellen Porter: Vice President of Human Resources. She oversees the company's HR functions and employee relations.
Leadership Changes
In June 2023, Boardwalk Pictures entered into a multi-year overall deal with Andrew Renzi's production company, North of Now. This partnership aims to create highly cinematic non-fiction films and TV shows for mainstream audiences, further expanding Boardwalk's creative reach.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The non-fiction entertainment industry has experienced significant growth, driven by audience demand for authentic and engaging content. Streaming platforms and networks are increasingly investing in high-quality documentaries and docuseries, creating a competitive landscape for production companies.
Competitor Analysis
Boardwalk Pictures operates in a competitive market alongside other production companies specializing in non-fiction content. Key competitors include:
- Kostic Films: A production company with a focus on documentary filmmaking.
- Daedalus Productions: Specializes in producing non-fiction content across various platforms.
- New Narrative Films: Known for creating compelling documentary films and series.
- Meridian Hill Pictures: Focuses on community-driven documentary storytelling.
- Wanderlustproject Films: Produces documentaries with a focus on travel and exploration.