The Rise of A24: The Indie Film Studio That’s Taking Over Hollywood

In recent years, one indie film studio has captured the attention of movie lovers and Hollywood insiders alike: A24. Daniel Katz, David Fenkel, and John Hodges were the founders of the film studio.

A24 has been around since 2012 and has quickly become one of the film industry’s most successful and influential players.

What sets A24 apart from other indie studios is its ability to consistently produce critically acclaimed and commercially successful films.

And the #BestFeature Award goes to 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' @allatoncemovie! 2023 #SpiritAwards. Congrats to #Producers: Daniel Kwan, Mike Larocca, AnthonRusso, Joe Russo, Daniel Scheinert, Jonathan Wang! pic.twitter.com/MfBPa3zAg9

— Film Independent (@filmindependent) March 5, 2023

From Oscar-winning dramas to horror films that redefine the genre, A24 has a reputation for taking risks and pushing boundaries.

Their movies often tackle complex and challenging subjects and are known for their unique visual style and powerful performances from their actors.

Not just by making and releasing films, they have gained a following of mostly younger people, which some may attribute to their risks in producing movies others may avoid or their rich social media.

The Secret Behind A24’s Success

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The key to A24’s success is their willingness to work with up-and-coming directors and writers. In an industry that often prioritizes established names and franchises, A24 has made a name for itself by taking chances on emerging talent.

Directors like Barry Jenkins, Robert Eggers, and Ari Aster have all made their feature debuts with A24.

Since then, they have become some of the industry’s most exciting and sought-after filmmakers.

For those familiar with A24 and who have followed it through the years, it may not surprise that they are breaking records. We may attribute the success they earned to movies like Everything Everywhere All at Once, a favorite for the Best Picture Oscar.

Despite their indie roots, A24 has become a significant player in Hollywood. Their films have earned over 25 Academy Award nominations, including Moonlight, Room, and Ex Machina wins.

They have also made a foray into television, producing acclaimed shows like Ramy and Euphoria. The studio has over 90,000 subscribers to the r/A24 Subreddit.

The company also has an online store where you can purchase items ranging from hot dog finger gloves, EEAAO-themed multiverse, and even a trophy candle that’s the shape of Jamie Lee Curtis’s butt plug.

What’s Their Story?

Photo credit: A24

Like most companies, A24 started small. The company kicked off in 2012 with the idea of three men, Daniel Katz, David Fenkel, and John Hodges. As for the name, a lucky encounter on an Italian autostrada inspired it.

Daniel Katz recalled in an interview, “I always had dreams of starting a company,” he expressed how the name was born. “And on some level, honestly, I was afraid to go out and try to make it work.”

“I was with a bunch of friends, and we were in the south of Italy and driving into Rome, and I had this moment of clarity. And it was on the A24 (freeway). And at that moment, I was like, ‘Now it’s time to go do this.'”

Movies like Harmony Korine’s Spring Breakers (2012), Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring (2013), and Alex Garland’s Ex Machina (2014) were all among the company’s earliest productions.

These productions did the trick as they were independent projects which starred in-demand stars and had youth appeal.

One example is Barry Jenkins’s Moonlight (2015). The $1.5m drama about a black teenager’s sexual identity crisis surprised Hollywood when it won the Best Picture Oscar with profound cultural moments.

The company has also successfully used marketing as a powerful tool in guiding these scripts into existence. A24’s success has been noticed in the industry.

Apple and A24’s Deal

In 2019, Apple signed a multi-year partnership deal with the studio. The tech giant will feature A24 produce a slate of films only for Apple’s streaming service.

Furthermore, this deal is a testament to the growing influence and reputation of A24 and a sign that they are here to stay.

The rise of A24 is a testament to the power of independent cinema. With a commitment to diversity, risk-taking, and supporting emerging talent, A24 has carved out a unique space in the industry.

It has become one of the most exciting studios working today. As they continue to produce groundbreaking films and expand their reach, it’s clear that A24’s influence will only keep increasing in the coming years.

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