Blatt ankles Miramax post

Rudnitsky stepping in

By ANDREW HINDES, LAURA FREEMAN

Neal Blatt has ankled his post as Miramax executive VP of domestic distribution after 2-1/2 years with the company. His former lieutenant, Mike Rudnitsky, has been promoted to senior executive VP of domestic distribution, effectively replacing Blatt as head of the minimajor's North American releasing activities.

Rudnitsky is expected to begin searching immediately for an executive to fill his previous role as senior VP and general sales manager.

In explaining Blatt's departure, a spokesman would say only that he had resigned. But according to insiders, Miramax chairman of worldwide distribution Rick Sands wanted a domestic chief who would fight more aggressively to keep the minimajor's films in theaters. Rudnitsky has a reputation as a tough negotiator.

Sands said, "During the past two years, Mike has demonstrated that he possesses the experience and knowledge of the business, as well as the relationships necessary to run the domestic distribution operation for Miramax and Dimension."

Compared with major studios, where top distrib execs sometimes remain in place for decades, Miramax has seen a rapid turnover in its distribution ranks. Just last month, Andy Gruenberg was let go after only three months as Miramax's prexy of distribution (Daily Variety, March 1). Blatt, who joined Miramax in late 1996, replaced Jack Foley who was in the job for just under three years.

Originally trained as an attorney, Blatt started his career in 20th Century Fox's legal department. In 1981 he joined Canadian exhibitor Cineplex Odeon, where he later became head film buyer.

Prior to joining Miramax, Rudnitsky worked at Columbia Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Triton Films and Cannon Pictures.