Greater Philadelphia Film Office reports successful outcomes following recent leadership changes over the past year.

In the Philadelphia film industry, Sharon Pinkenson is recognized as a pioneering figure whose impact resonates throughout the region. As the long-serving executive director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, Pinkenson played a crucial role in establishing Philadelphia as a sought-after location for major film productions. Under her leadership, the city hosted renowned films such as “12 Monkeys” and “Silver Linings Playbook,” paving the way for a diverse array of genres including documentaries, music videos, and commercials.

Upon Pinkenson’s departure from the film office in November 2024, after three decades of dedicated service, Erin Wagner and Nicole Shiner, both longtime employees, were appointed as co-executive directors. With two decades of experience under Pinkenson’s guidance, Wagner and Shiner began their new roles committed to advancing the mission and vision set forth by their predecessor.

Over the course of the past year, the new leaders have confronted various challenges, including the retirement of Joan Bressler, a crucial figure in the operation of the film office for over thirty years. With Bressler’s exit, Wagner and Shiner have worked to re-establish connections with government officials and industry stakeholders while asserting their approach as accessible and community-focused.

Wagner emphasized the exceptional workforce in the region, highlighting the convenience of Philadelphia’s proximity to major cities like New York and Washington, D.C. She has actively promoted local production resources and tax credits to potential filmmakers, striving to counter any misconceptions about Philadelphia’s viability as a filming location.

In addition to fostering relationships, Wagner and Shiner have made strides in supporting emerging filmmakers through the relaunch of the Joan Bressler Set in Philadelphia Screenwriting Competition. This initiative invites screenwriters to submit projects suitable for production in the Greater Philadelphia area, with a notable prize for the most promising entry.

Looking ahead, the leadership duo is committed to enhancing the skills of local crews by implementing training workshops focused on emerging production technologies. Their aim is to ensure that Philadelphia’s workforce remains competitive in an ever-evolving industry.

The year of transition has been described by Wagner as enlightening and reassuring, fostering optimism about building robust partnerships with local government and industry figures. Both Wagner and Shiner express a desire to create a legacy of their own while continuing to honor the foundational work laid by Pinkenson. Although they remain discreet about forthcoming projects, anticipation builds within the local film community, hinting at exciting opportunities on the horizon for the Philadelphia area.

As they venture into uncharted waters of leadership, Wagner and Shiner exemplify a commitment to nurturing Philadelphia’s film landscape, ensuring it remains an attractive destination for filmmakers and industry professionals alike. Media News Source.