John Penotti is an American film and television producer known for his work in both Hollywood and international markets. In 2013, he founded Ivanhoe Pictures, a company specializing in local-language productions. Ivanhoe later merged with Sidney Kimmel Entertainment, forming SK Global Entertainment, where Penotti served as a founder and CEO. SK Global was acquired by London-based investment firm Centricus in 2022.
Penotti is recognized for producing Crazy Rich Asians, directed by Jon M. Chu, a film notable for its all-Asian cast and significant impact on Hollywood's approach to diversity. The movie achieved commercial success, ranking among the highest-grossing romantic comedies and is credited with fostering a renewed interest in diverse, culturally-centered storytelling.
Penotti's work extends across numerous regions, including Asia, Europe, and Latin America, where he has developed and produced content in various local languages. His projects include the Netflix series Thai Cave Rescue, the acclaimed Korean thriller The Wailing, and the Hindi-language Delhi Crime, which won an International Emmy. Other notable productions include Hell or High Water, a 2017 Academy Award nominee for Best Picture, and Greta, directed by Neil Jordan. Through partnerships in China, Thailand, India, South Korea, and beyond, Penotti has played a prominent role in bridging talent and resources between Hollywood and international film industries.
Personal life Penotti was born in Paterson, New Jersey. He is a graduate of Tufts University, Summa Cum Laude.
Filmography
Film +YearFilm2023Virgo and the Sparklings 2022Sri Asih2022Lara Ati2022Final Cut2021Akhirat: A Love Story 2021The Box2021India Sweet and Spices2020Betaal2019The Jesus Rolls2019Impetigore2019The Sky is Pink2019Strange But True2018Cities of Last Things2018Greta2018Ghoul 2018Crazy Rich Asians2017Brad’s Status2017Another Shot2017The Book of Henry2016Hell or High Water2016The Wailing2015Bride Wars2015Intimate Enemies2014Slow Video2013All is Bright2013Movie 432011Violet & Daisy2010Frozen2009Tenderness2009Balls Out: Gary the Tennis Coach2008The Midnight Meat Train2007Awake2007Feast of Love2007Meet Bill2006Wedding Daze2006Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos2006A Prairie Home Companion2005Slow Burn2005Romance & Cigarettes2004Saving Face2004Yes 2003Uptown Girls2002Swimfan2002Just a Kiss2001Piñero2001The Château2001In the Bedroom2000Lisa Picard is Famous1998Illuminata1998A Price Above Rubies1996I’m Not Rappaport
Television +YearTitle2019-2024Dehli Crime, Seasons 1-32023The Talent Agency2022Thai Cave Rescue
References