Further legitimizing comic book-based superhero movies, cinema exhibition and distribution confab Showest has named Christopher Nolan Director of the Year, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The helmer first gained international attention with the hit indie thriller Memento, before tackling one of DC Comics’ top caped crusaders with Batman Begins. He has since returned to the Bat Cave to make The Dark Knight, which is slated for release on July 8.
Nolan has built a solid resume of successful films, including the 2002 remake of Erik Skjoldbjǽrg’s crime thriller Insomnia and the 2006 Hugh Jackman/Christian Bale vehicle The Prestige. With Batman Begins, he reintroduced the franchise with a more serious and believable story, eschewing the campiness that marks the ’60s television series and even Tim Burton’s 1989 film. Moviegoers will surely turn out in July to see one of actor Heath Ledger’s final performances as The Joker in Dark Knight.
Now in its 34th year, ShoWest is the most prestigious and longest running event for film distributors and theatre owners and operators. Taking place March 10-13 in Las Vegas, the show will inform attendees of the latest products and services, the newest technologies, industry happenings and upcoming films. Each year, the conference attracts more than 5,000 motion picture industry professionals.
