Toby Talbot, Impassioned Promoter of Art Films, Dies at 96

Toby Talbot, a renowned art film promoter, passed away at the age of 96. Alongside her husband, Dan, she operated four theaters in Manhattan and a distribution company that specialized in foreign and independent classic films. Talbot's passion for art cinema led her to champion films that might have otherwise remained obscure. She worked tirelessly to bring these cinematic gems to wider audiences, ensuring that they were accessible and appreciated. Her efforts played a crucial role in the development and preservation of the art film industry in the United States. As the co-founder of the Bleecker Street Cinema and the distributor Janus Films, Talbot left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. She was instrumental in introducing American audiences to the works of renowned directors like Ingmar Bergman, Akira Kurosawa, and Francois Truffaut, among others. Her unwavering dedication to promoting and preserving these films has left a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.