Elevation Pictures Co-President Laurie May Steps Down After 13-Year Run

Laurie May is stepping down as co-president of Elevation Pictures, the indie film distribution banner she launched in 2013 in Canada and with backing from Teddy Schwarzman’s Black Bear.

May expressed her pride in what she had helped build at Toronto-based Elevation, stating, “I am excited to now move forward and pursue my other passions.” Her departure marks a significant shift for the company, which will now be led Segal will take the helm as president of the indie distribution and production banner.

As an indie distributor, Elevation competes in the shadow of Hollywood studios dominating the local multiplex with star-driven tentpoles. Many of Elevation’s releases come via output deals with American partners, including Black Bear, Neon and A24, with whom Elevation is a preferred partner north of the border.

Schwarzman, a key investor in Elevation, praised May's substantial contributions to the company's creation, growth, and success. “Her vision, commitment and entrepreneurial leadership have been instrumental in building the company to what it is today, and we cannot thank her enough for the past thirteen years,” he said.

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Elevation has 14 movie titles set to play at the 2026 Toronto Film Festival, including Neon’s Fjord, which won the Palme D’or in Cannes, All of a Sudden, and A24’s Club Kid and The Debut. The company has built a tradition of bringing Canadian and international arthouse and commercial titles to the theatrical marketplace.

Elevation's recent releases have enjoyed box office success at the Canadian multiplex, including the breakout horror pic Backrooms and Marty Supreme, starring Timothee Chalamet. Other notable titles include The Imitation Game, Room, Moonlight, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Anora and Sentimental Value.

May's departure marks a new chapter for Elevation Pictures, as the company looks to continue its growth and success under Segal's leadership. With its diverse slate of releases and partnerships with prominent American distributors, Elevation remains a significant player in the Canadian indie film scene.