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Sean Baker and Samantha Quan to Curate Academy's List of World's 50 Best Cinemas

award · 2026-08-19

Sean Baker and Samantha Quan have been appointed to lead the newly formed Cinema Committee of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The committee will create a list of the 50 finest cinemas globally, an initiative announced on June 1 as a new international prize celebrating the theatrical experience. According to the Academy, the honor aims to recognize theaters that deliver exceptional audience experiences, preserve film history, and act as cultural pillars in their communities. The project is part of the Academy's centenary celebration, scheduled for 2027. Baker, the director of 'Anora', and Quan, a producer, will oversee the selection process.

Key facts

  • Sean Baker and Samantha Quan will lead the Cinema Committee.
  • The committee will compile a list of the 50 best cinemas worldwide.
  • The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the initiative on June 1.
  • The new award celebrates the cinematic experience and honors excellence in film exhibition.
  • Aimed at recognizing cinemas that provide exceptional audience experiences and preserve film history.
  • The project aligns with the Academy's centenary in 2027.
  • Baker is the director of 'Anora' and Quan is a producer.

Entities

Artists

  • Sean Baker
  • Samantha Quan

Institutions

  • Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Locations

  • Hollywood
  • United States

Sources