Neon CEO Tom Quinn Highlights Youth Appeal, Industry Challenges, and Cannes Triumph at SXSW London

Tom Quinn, chief executive of Neon, spoke at SXSW London about the company’s recent box-office hits, strategic considerations, and broader industry trends. He referenced the breakout films *Backrooms* and *Obsession*, discussed Neon’s documentary plans, and reflected on the company’s Cannes achievements.

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*Backrooms* and *Obsession* have been described as “incredible” successes, with *Backrooms* projected to exceed $100 million in domestic earnings. Neon’s seventh consecutive Palme d’Or arrived with *Fjord* at Cannes, underscoring a streak of award-winning titles.

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Longlegs actors Osgood Perkins and Chris Ferguson appear in *Backrooms*. Documentary filmmaker Asif Kapadia is directing *70 Up*, the latest entry in the UK “Up” series, which Quinn called a personal favorite.

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Quinn noted that the strong performance of *Backrooms* and *Obsession* signals robust interest from Generation Z and Generation Alpha, a demographic he said “over-indexes” in theatrical attendance. He warned that the industry’s focus on stock performance and consolidation—what he termed “Uber-ization”—could curb creativity and long-term vitality.

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Quinn framed the hits as proof that cinema can attract younger viewers who are willing to disengage from digital platforms, emphasizing that the films are “cinema” rather than “YouTube movies.” He expressed concern that large-scale corporate structures may hinder creativity, while affirming Neon’s independence. He disclosed ongoing talks about selling a significant stake to Department M and highlighted Neon’s documentary ambitions with *70 Up*. Regarding Cannes, he described the invitation as an honor and noted personal satisfaction in surpassing Michael Jordan’s six NBA championships.

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• “there’s a younger generation here that’s willing to walk away from their phone.” — Tom Quinn, CEO, Neon

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• “I don’t see it as YouTube or otherwise; I see it as cinema,” — Tom Quinn, CEO, Neon

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• “I worry for the industry greatly. The idea that you’re at a company of 12,000 employees, you’re spending billions of dollars, and this is your end result. This is what you’ve come up with — that concerns me,” — Tom Quinn, CEO, Neon

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• “I defy you not to cry seeing this incredible film.” — Tom Quinn, CEO, Neon (referring to *70 Up*)

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• “Do I feel any pressure? No. Simply being invited [to Cannes] is an honor.” — Tom Quinn, CEO, Neon

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Neon is evaluating a potential equity transaction with Department M while preparing the release of *70 Up*. The company’s strategy appears focused on leveraging youth-driven box-office success, expanding its documentary portfolio, and navigating industry consolidation pressures.

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