Utopia has added Dave A. Liu, a veteran executive and investor, as strategic advisor to its CEO and board of directors.
In his new role, Liu will help steer the company’s strategic and financial initiatives. He will also work to amplify diverse voices across Utopia, the indie media company said. Liu has worked in Silicon Valley and Wall Street. He has been an investment banker, entrepreneur, and film producer, raising over $15 billion for hundreds of companies, while creating multiple start-ups and writing a bestselling book, “The Way of the Wall Street Warrior: Conquer the Corporate Game Using Tips, Tricks, and Smartcuts.” Liu also invested in Stampede Ventures and TEG, among other companies.
Co-founded by Robert Coppola Schwartzman and Cole Harper,Utopiasays it hopes to leverage Liu’s expertise to strengthen its core business, while enhancing its focus on diversity and inclusion within the film and TV industries. Specifically, Utopiawill work with Mr. Liu to bolster the development and acquisition of projects created by Asian and Pacific Islander filmmakers.
Utopia has raised its profile in recent years, releasing critical favorites and arthouse hits like “Holy Spider,” “Shiva Baby” and “Femme.” Its output has grown from four films in 2019 to an average of three acquisitions and new productions per month. Many of these movies are from underrepresented filmmakers or LGBTQ directors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dave toUtopia,” Schwartzman said. “His wealth of experience and keen strategic vision align perfectly with our goals for the future. With Dave on board, we are confident in our ability to not only navigate the ever-evolving landscape of independent film, but also champion equity and inclusivity within our projects.”
“Dave’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and promoting diversity aligns seamlessly withUtopia’s values,” Harper said. “Not only has Dave produced films himself, but he has also philanthropically supported the theatrical premieres of many Asian American film successes such as ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and ‘Past Lives.’ There are thousands of high-quality films made every year that offer fresh perspectives to cinema, and Dave understands how to properly release them at scale. We believe that Dave’s expertise will play a crucial role as we continue to explore new opportunities and expand our reach. Discovering and fostering films and filmmakers at every phase of development and distribution is our number one priority.”
“I am honored to be part ofUtopiaand contribute to the company’s explosive growth and vision,” Liu said.“Utopia’s commitment to independent film and its dedication to amplifying diverse voices resonate with me deeply. I look forward to working alongside Robert, Cole, and the entireUtopiateam to make a lasting impact on the independent film industry.”
