iW NEWS | Janet Pierson Named New Producer of SXSW Film Fest; Dentler Heading to Cinetic

Janet Pierson has been named the new producer of the SXSW Film Festival and Conference, the organization has just announced. Matt Dentler, who has served as producer of the fest since 2004, has accepted a position in New York City to head the marketing and programming operations of Cinetic Media's new digital rights management unit, the festival said in an announcement. Pierson has a long history in the independent film world. In 1986 she and husband John Pierson began producer rep work that eventually lead to the release of groundbreaking work including "Roger and Me," "She's Gotta Have It," "Slacker" and "Clerks." A board member of the Austin Film Society, she was the co-creator of the TV series "Split Screen" on the Independent Film Channel. "I've been a huge fan and supporter of SXSW Film since its inception," commented Pierson in a statement. "I'm thrilled now to take on the challenge of continuing its exciting growth." [Brian Brooks]