Celebrating Excellence in Cinematic Storytelling and Promotion
The Prestigious Maxwell Weinberg Award Nominees
The Publicists of the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG), affiliated with IATSE Local 600, have unveiled the distinguished list of nominees for the Maxwell Weinberg Award for Motion Picture Publicity Campaign. This accolade recognizes exceptional promotional strategies that elevate cinematic works to broader audiences.
A Diverse Array of Nominated Films
The selection for the Maxwell Weinberg Award encompasses five prominent feature films, each representing a unique facet of cinematic storytelling and promotional prowess. The nominated productions include the highly anticipated sequel, 28 Years Later, from Sony Pictures Entertainment; Lionsgate's intriguing drama, The Housemaid; Netflix's animated adventure, KPop Demon Hunters; Walt Disney Studios' beloved classic adaptation, Lilo & Stitch; Paramount Pictures' action-packed installment, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning; Warner Bros. Pictures' compelling narrative, Sinners; and Universal Pictures' fantastical musical, Wicked: For Good. These films showcase the breadth and creativity of modern movie marketing.
Honoring Distinguished Contributions with Special Awards
In addition to recognizing outstanding film campaigns, the ICG has also announced the recipients of two significant special awards. Cynthia Swartz, the visionary founder of Strategy PR/Consulting, will be presented with the Bob Yeager Award for Community Service. Swartz is celebrated for her impactful campaigns for critically acclaimed films such as The Hurt Locker, Pulp Fiction, The English Patient, and Lady Bird, embodying the spirit of service beyond conventional publicity.
Recognizing Special Merit in Entertainment Public Relations
Pamela Golum is set to receive the Henri Bollinger Award for Special Merit, an honor bestowed upon individuals who exemplify exceptional contributions to the entertainment field. Golum, a co-founder of The Lippin Group in 1986, has been instrumental in shaping public relations strategies. Since 1994, she has notably led publicity efforts for Dick Wolf's Wolf Entertainment, overseeing campaigns for iconic series such as Law & Order, the “One Chicago” franchise, and FBI-branded series, alongside the new series CIA, demonstrating a sustained legacy of excellence.
Upcoming Announcement of Award Winners
The International Cinematographers Guild previously revealed the initial round of nominees, including television series contending for the 2026 Maxwell Weinberg Award for Television Publicity Campaign, back in December. The ultimate winners for all categories will be officially declared at the 63rd Annual ICG Publicists Awards ceremony. This grand event is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 13, at the illustrious Beverly Wilshire Hotel, located in Beverly Hills, promising an evening of recognition and celebration for the industry's finest.