The Forge - CEO & President Mark Sayre

Established by independent film veteran Mark Mathias Sayre, THE FORGE is a distributor and international sales agency of compelling independent films and documentaries. As CEO and founder, Sayre’s vision for The Forge extends beyond distribution. It’s about creating a conduit for films that embody authentic voices and narratives that might otherwise be overshadowed in the conventional studio system. In addition to the release of the South By Southwest Special Jury prize winning film, We Are Dangerous, The Forge has also distributed a string of other award winning films that include Sujo, The Resynator and Back Dog. Coming out in January of 2026 is Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut feature film, The Chronology of Water, starring Imogen Poots, Thora Birch, Susannah Flood, Kim Gordon, Michael Epp and Jim Belushi. The film premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section of the prestigious festival. Mark Sayre joins us for a wide ranging conversation on the current state of film distribution and the importance of The Forge’s vision that goes beyond limited screenings to a more engaging release strategy, starting with premieres in major U.S. cities and followed by wider distribution. His approach is indicative of a deeper commitment to not only promoting films but also nurturing a symbiotic relationship with filmmakers.