Lisa Callif and Dean Cheley Named to Variety Dealmakers Impact Report 2016
Partners Lisa Callif and Dean Cheley were recognized by Variety as part of the 2016 Dealmakers Impact Report. Lisa was highlighted for her work securing funding for documentaries that bring awareness to social issues, while Dean was spotlighted for his work in the emerging online markets.
Lisa works with producers and financiers who are emotionally connected to certain socially conscious documentaries. Such projects often obtain funding in relatively small increments from multiple investors, foundations and distributors. “Typically, the funding comes in waves over a long period of time,” Lisa said. “A filmmaker can start making a film with just a camera.”
Variety also highlighted deals Dean has made in the online space, working with platforms such as Amazon Studios, Netflix, YouTube Red, and Vimeo. He has enabled numerous producers to create a roadmap for financing and distribution, leading to deals that allow their works to be seen.
Each year, Variety profiles the people behind the most important entertainment industry deals of the past 12 months, featuring those who have had an undeniable impact on the entertainment world.