Barendrecht founded Fortissimo in 1991 after working as a programmer for the Rotterdam Film Festival and press officer for Berlin 's International Forum. At Fortissimo he has guided titles ranging from Wong Kar-wai's Chungking Express and In The Mood For Love to Thai hit comedy Iron Ladies to international success.
Werner joined Fortissimo as an external consultant in 1995 and in 2000 became a partner in the company. A long-time veteran of the movie sales business, his consulting clients have included 20th Century Fox International, IBM, PolyGram and The Sunshine Group.
'It is a great honor to be able to single out Michael J. Werner and Wouter Barendrecht for their significant achievements in the development, financing, co-production, promotion and distribution of award-winning films globally, including Asia, at this year's CineAsia', said CineAsia co-managing director Mitch Neuhauser.
'Michael and Wouter's combined entrepreneurial spirit and determination have catapulted Fortissimo Films to the forefront of international film distribution.'
The award will be presented as part of the Gala Final Night Banquet and Awards Ceremony at this year's CineAsia on December 6 at the Wynn casino in Macau.
Other honorees include Distributor of the Year Erlina Suharjono of Warner Bros Pictures International and Exhibitors of the Year Bob Vallone of Lark International Multimedia.
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