Barbosa's Mann's man

Ex-General Cinema VP new sr. VP, film buyer

By ANDREW HINDES

PARK CITY, Utah -- After a lengthy search process, Mann Theatres has tapped former General Cinema veep Ben Barbosa as senior vice president for film and head film buyer for the circuit.

Barbosa, who starts his new position today, will be responsible for all facets of the L.A.-based, 380-screen chain's film activities.

"I am extremely pleased that Ben has joined our team," said Jeffrey Lewine, president and CEO of Westar Cinemas, which owns the Mann chain. "His knowledge and experience in the exhibition sector is extraordinary and will prove an invaluable asset to Mann Theatres."

No replacement plans

General Cinema has no plans to replace Barbosa, who oversaw booking in the Western U.S. for the circuit. Instead, VP of film Alan deLemos, who previously handled the Eastern section of the country from the company's Boston headquarters, will expand his role to encompass all of GC's U.S. sites.

"Ben has been an important and valued member of the General Cinema family," said GC spokesman Brian Callaghan. "He's well-respected both in the industry and by his former colleagues here, and we wish him the very best."

GC will keep its Los Angeles film office open until further notice, said Callaghan.

Late last year, Mann entered into negotiations to buy General Cinema's theaters in Southern California, but talks between the two circuits have since broken down, insiders said.

Timely appointment

Barbosa's appointment comes not a moment too soon for Mann, which had gone without a head film buyer for more than two months.

Last August, Mann veteran Alan Davy was replaced as head film buyer by longtime Lewine associate Janet Jackson. Jackson lasted just three months in the role (Daily Variety, Nov. 20, 1998), leaving the circuit with no head film buyer during the crucial Christmas period.

Barbosa served as VP of film marketing at GC since 1995. He started at the circuit in the 1970s as a regional film buyer. In 1991 he was promoted to vice president of film.

Prior to General Cinema, Barbosa held positions with Columbia Pictures and Universal Pictures.