The Elon graduate’s work developing feature films at Imagine Entertainment earned her a place on Variety’s annual list recognizing the entertainment industry’s next generation of influential professionals.
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Elon alumna Joyce Choi ’19, vice president of film at Imagine Entertainment, has been named to Variety’s “Hollywood’s New Leaders: Class of 2026,” recognizing 34 emerging executives, producers, agents and entrepreneurs who are helping shape the future of the entertainment industry. The annual list honors professionals age 40 and younger who are driving innovation and excellence across film, television, music, technology and digital media.
Founded by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard and producer Brian Grazer, Imagine Entertainment is one of Hollywood’s most respected film and television production companies, with acclaimed credits including “A Beautiful Mind,” “Apollo 13” and “Friday Night Lights.”
Since joining the company more than six years ago, Choi has risen from an executive assistant to vice president of film, where she leads development across the department’s slate. Her projects include “Dangerously Funny,” a feature about the Smothers Brothers’ battle with CBS censors, and she secured the rights to the books “200 Monas” by Jan Saenz and Rebecca Yarros’ “The Last Letter” for Amazon. Imagine’s upcoming releases include “How to Rob a Bank,” “Whalefall,” “The Mosquito Bowl” and “Spaceballs 2.”
Choi said the recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the relationships she has built throughout her career.
“You can’t succeed in a vacuum, and I think the best part of this industry is the camaraderie and community that you can find if you look for it,” Choi said. “To be recognized by the company where I grew up as a producer is incredibly meaningful, and even more than that, to look around and be celebrated by my peers and creative partners is everything.”
In her profile, the Elon graduate reflected on the experiences that sparked her passion for filmmaking.
“Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to watch many movies, so the ones I did manage to see felt especially meaningful,” she told Variety. “That experience shaped the kinds of stories I gravitate toward today.”
Reflecting on her career path, Choi offered advice for others hoping to break into the film industry.
“No matter how you got into the room or what room you’re in, make the most of it,” she said. “Do everything you can to hone your craft so that, in an industry where opportunities are increasingly harder to come by, you’re the most prepared you could be to take full advantage of whatever comes your way.”
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