in proximity
December 1, 2024
43 min

How to Make it in Hollywood with Courtenay Valenti and Rebecca Cho

Veteran studio executive Courtenay Valenti began her career as an assistant at Warner Bros. in the 1980s, eventually rising to President of Production and Development. During her tenure, she championed major hits including BARBIE, THE COLOR PURPLE, and Proximity’s JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH. Today, Courtenay is Head of Theatrical and Streaming Films at Amazon MGM Studios where she oversees the company’s film slate and strategic direction. Courtenay sat down with her former colleague, Proximity’s head of film Rebecca Cho, for an empowering conversation about the role of a studio executive, lessons in leadership and mentorship, and the secret to making a sustainable and impactful Hollywood career.

02:09  

Get Reel  

09:31  

Difference between a studio exec vs. producer  

18:07  

What makes a great leader  

23:42  

Navigating industry changes  

33:42  

Working with creatives  

37:17  

Prox Recs