How Neon’s Tom Quinn Built a Film Powerhouse with Parasite and Longlegs

Neon, the independent film studio, has become a dominant force in cinema. Under founder Tom Quinn, the company has won two Best Picture Oscars. Its recent horror hit, Longlegs, was the top indie release of 2024.

This success was recognized at the Zurich Summit, where Quinn received the Game Changer Award. His journey from a film cataloger to a studio head has reshaped the indie landscape.

The Unconventional Business Model Behind the Success

Neon’s approach blends artistic conviction with sharp marketing. The company operates with a small, cross-trained team. This allows for quick decisions and innovative campaigns.

For the horror film Longlegs, Neon abandoned traditional marketing. Instead of trailers, it used cryptic billboards and an online mystery. This strategy helped the film earn $74 million domestically.

Building a Brand on Filmmaker Trust and Bold Acquisitions

Quinn’s strategy centers on acquiring films he passionately believes in. He paid $1.6 million for Portrait of a Lady on Fire, a bold move for a French film. This commitment has earned Neon a remarkable six-film winning streak at the Cannes Film Festival.

The company’s brand identity is its most valuable asset. Quinn aims to create a catalog where liking one film makes you curious about the others. This curatorial trust attracts top filmmakers seeking a true theatrical partner.

Neon’s success proves that theatrical distribution is not dead. The company’s unique model continues to redefine independent cinema for a new generation.

Dropping this nugget your way

What was Neon’s first major Oscar success?

Neon’s first major Oscar campaign was for *I, Tonya*. The film earned three nominations and a win for Allison Janney. This put the young company on the map.

How did Neon market the film Parasite?

Neon’s trailer highlighted the film’s few English lines to comfort audiences. This clever marketing helped the foreign-language film become a massive box office hit and win Best Picture.

What is Neon’s highest-grossing film?

Neon’s highest-grossing film to date is the horror movie *Longlegs*. It earned $74 million at the domestic box office, surpassing all other indie releases in 2024.

Is Neon planning to sell the company?

Tom Quinn has acknowledged incoming interest is validating. However, he stated that creating a company just to exit was never his primary goal.

How many Academy Award nominations does Neon have?

Neon has accumulated 39 Academy Award nominations. The company has won 11 Oscars, including two for Best Picture.