Biography

Jonathan Turell is a prominent American film executive and producer best known for his leadership of Janus Films and The Criterion Collection. Alongside his long-time business partner Peter Becker, Turell 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, Turell is the son of Saul J. Turell, a prominent filmmaker and distributor who co-founded Janus Films. Jonathan formally joined the family business in the 1980s, eventually rising to become the Chief Executive Officer 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 the launch of the Criterion Channel streaming service.

Beyond his executive career, Turell 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, Turell remains a vital figure in keeping independent and international film history alive for modern audiences.
- IMDb mini biography by: Nizam Miah

Son of Saul J. Turell.