Dan Lin, the renowned producer behind successful films like the Lego movies and the live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender, has been appointed as the new head of film for Netflix. This news comes after Scott Stuber, the previous head of film, announced his departure in January. Lin’s name had been considered since the early stages of the search, alongside other industry figures like former Disney executive Sean Bailey and Twilight producer Wyck Godfrey.
The decision to bring Lin on board was not without its challenges. Lin had strong ties to his production company, Rideback, as well as his nonprofit organization, Rideback Rise. These affiliations had previously hindered his chances of securing top positions in the past. For instance, when he was in talks to oversee DC film and TV at Warner Bros. in 2022, the discussions fell through due to concerns about Rideback.
However, a new deal arrangement has been reached, which will see Lin leaving Rideback and his partner Jonathan Eirich and Rideback COO Michael LoFaso taking over as the new co-CEOs of the production company. Lin is set to begin his new role at Netflix on April 1.
Lin is no stranger to Netflix, having previously produced films like the 2017 horror movie Death Note and the 2019 Oscar-nominated drama The Two Popes for the streaming platform. His most notable project for Netflix thus far has been the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender. The series debuted at number one in 92 countries and has been a resounding success.
Lin expressed his excitement about joining Netflix, stating that Bela Bajaria’s vision for the film division aligned with his own personal and professional values. He believes that Netflix has already established a strong foundation in the film industry and is eager to take it to the next level, making it the premier destination for filmmakers.
Before his new role at Netflix, Lin began his career as a junior executive at Warner Bros. and later founded his own production company, Rideback. As a producer, his films have grossed over $5 billion globally, including hits like the It and Sherlock Holmes franchises, as well as the Lego movies.
Bajaria, the chief content officer at Netflix, praised Lin’s ability to attract exceptional filmmakers and highlighted his creation of Rideback as a dynamic community for filmmakers. She believes that Lin’s innovative approach and talent will greatly benefit Netflix.
Lin steps into his new position at Netflix in a different landscape than his predecessor, Scott Stuber. Stuber played a crucial role in making Netflix appealing to the Hollywood community and expanding into blockbuster movie territory. He worked with renowned filmmakers like Zack Snyder, the Russo brothers, Michael Bay, and Rawson Marshall Thurber, and initiated successful franchises like Extraction, The Gray Man, and Knives Out.
While Netflix has not publicly disclosed its film goals, insiders suggest that the company is scaling back budgets and the number of original movies. This shift in strategy will likely shape Lin’s approach as he takes on his new role and works towards furthering Netflix’s success in the film industry.