Biography

Peter Becker is a prominent American film executive and producer best known for his leadership as the President of The Criterion Collection and Janus Films. Alongside his long-time business partner Jonathan Turell, Becker has spent decades at the forefront of international film distribution and classic movie preservation. Under his guidance, both sister companies have maintained their status as the gold standard for high-quality home video releases and theatrical distribution of world cinema.

Growing up in a family deeply rooted in film history, Becker is the son of William Becker, a theater critic and financier who co-owned Janus Films. Peter formally took on key leadership roles within the organizations, eventually becoming the President of both Janus Films and The Criterion Collection. He has been instrumental in transitioning the companies from laserdisc distribution to DVD, Blu-ray, 4K UHD, and spearheaded the creation and 2019 launch of the Criterion Channel streaming service.

Beyond his executive career, Becker works as a producer on supplemental features and documentaries that provide critical context for classic cinema. His production credits include specialized shorts and behind-the-scenes documentaries for legendary directors like Federico Fellini and contemporary artists like David Byrne. Through his continuous efforts in film restoration and distribution, Becker remains a vital figure in keeping independent and international film history alive for modern audiences.
- IMDb mini biography by: Nizam Miah