John Bard Manulis

Biography

​John Bard Manulis (born September 8, 1956) is an American film, television, and theater producer, director, entrepreneur, and activist. Over his career, he has produced or executive-produced more than 20 films, television programs, and theater productions, often focusing on socially and politically charged themes.

Career Highlights

Manulis's notable film credits include The Basketball Diaries (1995), Swing Kids (1993), Foxfire (1996), Tortilla Soup (2001), and the environmental documentary Arctic Tale (2007). His projects frequently explore topics such as drug addiction, repression, AIDS, female empowerment, and climate change. ​

In the theater realm, he has directed and produced various productions, including The Umbilical Brothers: THWAK and Three Ways Home. He began his professional theater career at the Circle Repertory Company in New York, working alongside notable figures like Marshall W. Mason and William Hurt. ​

Manulis has held executive roles at several organizations, including serving as Head of Filmed Entertainment for Samuel Goldwyn Films, where he supervised the production or acquisition of films such as The Madness of King George, Lolita, and American Buffalo. ​

Early Life and Education

Born in Los Angeles, California, Manulis is the son of actress Katharine Bard and producer Martin Manulis, creator of the television program Playhouse 90. He graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Literature and Language. During his time at Harvard, he was president of the Harvard Dramatic Club and directed several productions.

Activism and Entrepreneurship

Beyond his work in entertainment, Manulis is a committed activist and entrepreneur. He co-founded Visionbox Media Group, a company that utilized digital technology for film production and distribution. In 2011, he and his wife, Liz Heller, founded Screenspaces, a social technology company. ​

He has also been involved in political activism, serving as Executive Producer for events during Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign in Colorado. Additionally, he serves on the boards of The Liberty Hill Foundation and The Getty House Foundation. ​