Why small studios struggle to keep their dreams alive

# **Row K in Crisis: Three Top Executives Exit as Film Studio Struggles with Cash Flow**

## **A Leadership Exodus**
Row K, a once-promising indie film studio aiming to disrupt Hollywood, is facing a major shakeup. Three key leaders—**president Megan Colligan**, **marketing head Ben Carlson**, and **finance manager Mo Rhim**—have abruptly left the company amid severe financial strain. With the studio’s parent company, **Media Capital Technologies**, scrambling to stabilize operations, the focus is shifting from high-risk artistic projects to safer, profit-driven films.

For now, **Steve Garrett** remains the sole holdover from the old guard, but the future of Row K hangs in the balance.

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## **The $7 Million Gamble Gone Wrong**
Row K’s troubles deepened after acquiring the critically acclaimed comedy *Poetic License*—a film by **Maude Apatow** (*Euphoria*)—for up to **$7 million**. Despite glowing festival reviews, the studio now lacks the funds to pay for it.

Originally slated for a **May release** to align with *Euphoria*’s new season, the film has been **delayed to October**. While securing a new distributor shouldn’t be difficult given its early success, the financial misstep underscores deeper issues.