Subtext, a new distribution company for independent film, officially launches with a mission to connect author-driven films with their audiences through strategic, multi-platform U.S. distribution that maximizes cultural impact and long-term value for both creators and investors. The company is founded by industry veterans Danielle DiGiacomo, Brian Levy, and Teddy Liouliakis with offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Subtext is built to address one of the most pressing challenges in today’s independent film marketplace: cutting through an increasingly crowded content landscape with precision, intention, and cultural relevance. The company will be at the Sundance Film Festival, actively looking to acquire films and are one of the producers behind the documentary Closure, directed by Michal Marczack, which will premiere in the World Cinema Documentary Competition.
As the independent film marketplace grows more fragmented, Subtext stands out on a mission to amplify reach and revenue through innovative partnerships spanning brands, music, publishing, and fashion—expanding a film’s footprint beyond traditional release windows and into the broader cultural conversation. Subtext’s slate will focus on distinctive, filmmaker-driven work with strong cultural resonance, supported by bespoke strategies designed to extend each film’s lifecycle and economic potential. The first film produced under the banner was Empire Skate, directed by Josh Swade, a documentary examining the rise of Supreme and its influence on skate culture, produced in collaboration with Time Studios and ESPN. The film premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival and is now streaming on Disney+. Subtext will announce their growing slate of fiction and nonfiction films in more detail over the coming weeks.
Subtext is led by Danielle DiGiacomo, former Head of Content at Utopia Media and previously SVP of Acquisitions and Strategic Partnerships at 1091/The Orchard, who will oversee Distribution and Content Curation. Brian Levy, previously of Entertainment 360 and Pulse Films/VICE, will oversee Production and Content Curation while continuing to manage a roster of writers, directors, and filmmakers across film, television, and documentary. Teddy Liouliakis, founder of cultural strategy and insights consultancy Why-Q, will oversee Marketing and Operations.
“At Subtext, we believe great independent films deserve more than visibility—they deserve context, community, and longevity,” said the founders in a joint statement. “Our goal is to build tailored distribution strategies that meet audiences where they are, while creating sustainable value for filmmakers and partners.”
“Independent distribution doesn’t fail because audiences aren’t there—it fails when strategy isn’t aligned with culture,” said the founders. “Subtext exists to close that gap.”
