The Circuit

Focus Features CEO James Schamus will receive the Trailblazer Award at the 9th annual Woodstock Film Festival on October 4th.  Schamus will be honored for his producing ("Brokeback Mountain"), his screenwriting ("The Ice Storm"), and his songwriting ("Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon") with a retrospective and a discussion of his career.

“The award was created with the intention of honoring those who have taken an innovative and transforming approach in the film industry" said Meira Blaustein, the fest's exec director. "Mr. Schamus surpasses those objectives. The fact the he has exhibited excellence in both business and creativity sets him apart from all his peers.”

“I’m touched to be receiving this honor from one of my very favorite film festivals," said Schamus "one that carries on the spirit of adventure and discovery that characterizes its hometown.”

Past Trailblazer recipients include Ted Sarandos of Netflix, Jonathan Sehring of IFC Entertainment, and John Sloss of Cinetic Media.