Dattner Dispoto and Associates (DDA Talent) and Worldwide Production Agency are combining their operations.
The merger aims to create a new global agency specializing in the film, television, commercial and digital media sectors and the most sought-after artisans, department heads, directors and producers. The merger combines industry expertise and international influence, creating an extensive roster of cinematographers, production and costume designers, editors, visual effects artists, directors and producers under a single banner.
The newly combined agency, which does not yet have an official name, will operate from offices in Los Angeles and London, with support from partnerships across Europe, Canada, South America and Australia.
“This announcement follows months of strategic planning between our agencies as we prepare for a combined expansion strategy focused on delivering creative talent globally,” DDA Talent President Bill Dispoto and WPA Co-CEO Steve Jacob said in a joint statement.
The combined roster includes Academy Award-winning cinematographer Eric Messerschmidt, ASC (“Mank”); two-time Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth, ASC (“The Social Network”); Malik Said (The Crockers, Berry, After the Hunt). The producer is Ralph Winter (“X-MEN” series). Editor Ian S. Tan, ACE (Avatar: The Last Airbender). production designer Danny Vermette, ADG (“Backroom”); John Matheson, BSC (“Gladiator”). Cinematographer Larry Fong, ASC (“Watchmen”); Cinematographer Mihai Malaimea Jr. (The Master, Jojo Rabbit). And the cinematographer is Maryse Alberti (“Creed”).
“Our agencies have always shared the same philosophy: extraordinary expression begins with putting the artist first. Each of us has built our business by championing creative excellence, personal service, and long-term career development,” said Juanita Tiangco, vice president of DDA Talent.
Frank Balkin, co-CEO of WPA, added, “The entertainment industry is rapidly evolving, and the demand for world-class creative talent has never been greater. This merger creates one of the largest independent agencies focused on bottom-line talent. This positions us to better serve our clients across film, television, streaming, advertising and emerging media, while continuing to champion the artists who bring stories to life.”
