Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1529459
8 I D G A M O N T H L Y DGA National Vice President/DGA Honors Chair Laura Belsey reminds the audience of New York's long history in the industry DGA President Lesli Linka Glatter welcomes the attendees and speaks about the honorees On October 17, 2024, the DGA celebrated the 25th Anniversary of DGA Honors at the Guild's New York Theater. This year's honorees were Director Francis Ford Coppola, President of CBS/ Paramount's See It Now Studios and Former CBS News President Susan Zirinsky, Broadway Stages Founder Tony Argento along with its CEO & President Gina Argento, film distribution company Criterion and the renowned children's program Sesame Street, each of which have made a lasting impact on American culture through their unwavering dedication to the arts, and through film and television. The celebration was emceed by Director, Actor, Producer and Writer Natasha Lyonne. DGA President Lesli Linka Glatter kicked off the ceremony stating, "Tonight we come together to recognize the deeper, lasting contributions individuals and organizations have made to this wonderful and collaborative art form. We are joined by a legendary filmmaker, a pioneering news executive, visionary stage builders, film lovers and curators, a trailblazing children's television show, and yes, even a Muppet! While they all bring something different to the table, they all share a passion for storytelling, and are vital to the success of our industry and our art." DGA National Vice President Laura Belsey reminded the audience, "It was right across the Hudson River where the American film industry was born over one hundred years ago, followed by the arrival of live television in New York City several decades later. New York has always been, and remains, the heart of live theater, news and the advertising industry. It is perhaps because of the intertwining of so many different but related industries – documentary and news, live and televised theater, commercials, film and television – that New York has, in those memorable words, a palpable authenticity you can't find elsewhere. It is a place where the industry has always come to re-invent itself – and, perhaps, may one day re-invent itself again." Director Gia Coppola had the privilege of paying tribute to her grandfather, iconic Director Francis Ford Coppola, who has made an indelible mark on cinema and inspired generations of Directors. Against the backdrop of a standing ovation, Coppola thanked his Guild for honoring his legacy. "I have to be honest, I had no idea really what this event was going to be like tonight," said Coppola. "I confess that tonight was a different experience. I have met so many wonderful people and so many talented people I feel like I've just been hit by a wave of goodness and friendship. I thank you so much for that." Coppola also recalled meeting DGA greats like King Vidor, Billy Wilder and Frank Capra as a young filmmaker and recounted an amusing anecdote from his early encounters with the legendary Sam Goldwyn, who on their first meeting advised him to be a writer after Coppola informed him of his aspirations to direct. Then after Coppola helmed his first film, Goldwyn changed his tune in a subsequent meeting and said, "Be a Director, The most important thing is to direct." DGA HONORS • NEW YORK CITY Thursday, October 17, 2024 Director Francis Ford Coppola gives his acceptance speech during the DGA Honors Gala in New York. Honors host Natasha Lyonne entertains the audience.