In 1997, the first Alamo Drafthouse opened in downtown Austin on Colorado Street, and Founder and CEO Tim League has been revolutionizing entertainment — in Austin and beyond — ever since.

A graduate of Rice University with degrees in mechanical engineering and art/art history, League worked for Shell Oil before his career path took a detour into the world of film. Deciding that engineering wasn’t his ideal profession, he took a leap of faith and opened a movie theater near Bakersfield, California with his wife Karrie. Although the venture failed, League’s passion for film was fueled. He packed up the seats, the projector, and an entrepreneurial spirit, and headed to Austin to give the theater concept another try.

For over 15 years, Austinites have gravitated toward the Drafthouse's unique brand of programming, which has become a cultural mainstay of Austin’s creative landscape. Now, the Alamo Drafthouse footprint is seen across the country, in locations as varied as Dallas, San Francisco and Yonkers.

A true cinephile, League’s innovative work extends far past the general movie-going experience. He founded Austin-based Fantastic Fest, the largest genre film festival in the United States, in 2005. League is also the force behind Drafthouse Films, the Alamo Drafthouse’s branded film distribution label. Drafthouse Films shares some of the most provocative and artfully unusual films via distribution in theaters, home video, and video on demand.

The CEO of Alamo Drafthouse is a successful entrepreneur, but he’s also a down-to-earth guy who loves movies and sharing that passion. “I really love my job,” says League. “I also really enjoy watching other people be happy and having a sense of pride for putting on a show that makes people happy.”

Here are just a few insights into what drives Tim League to keep fueling the expansive growth of his unique brand of entertainment.