Who Owns DreamWorks Now: Unraveling the Complex Ownership of a Cinematic Giant

As a lifelong fan of animated classics, I remember the sheer magic that DreamWorks Animation brought to the silver screen. From the lovable ogre Shrek to the adventurous Po, these films were more than just entertainment; they were experiences that shaped my childhood. So, it's only natural that as I grew older and my interest in the business side of entertainment deepened, I’d start wondering, "Who owns DreamWorks now?" It’s a question that carries a surprising amount of complexity, reflecting the dynamic and often convoluted nature of Hollywood ownership.

The Short Answer: Universal Pictures, a Subsidiary of NBCUniversal, is the Current Owner of DreamWorks Animation

To put it plainly, **Universal Pictures**, which is a division of **NBCUniversal**, currently owns DreamWorks Animation. This acquisition took place in 2016, marking a significant shift in the landscape of major animation studios. It’s important to note that this isn't just a minor business transaction; it signifies the integration of a beloved animation powerhouse into an even larger media conglomerate. Understanding this ownership structure requires a bit of a deep dive into the history of both DreamWorks and its parent companies.

A Journey Through DreamWorks Animation's Evolving Ownership

DreamWorks Animation’s journey to its current ownership under Universal Pictures is a fascinating narrative of ambition, strategic alliances, and corporate restructuring. It wasn't always a subsidiary; in fact, it started as a separate entity with its own distinct vision and ownership structure.

The Founding Vision and Early Days

DreamWorks SKG, the parent company that eventually spawned DreamWorks Animation, was founded in 1994 by a formidable trio: Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and David Geffen. Their vision was ambitious: to create a new entertainment giant capable of competing with established players like Disney. Initially, DreamWorks SKG was a diversified studio involved in film, television, and music. DreamWorks Animation itself was established in 1997, with Katzenberg serving as its driving force, bringing his considerable experience from Disney to the new venture. Early successes like *Antz* and the groundbreaking *Shrek* quickly established DreamWorks Animation as a major player in the animation industry, capable of challenging Disney and Pixar's dominance. The early ownership was primarily held by the founders and through initial public offerings (IPOs) and subsequent stock sales, with a significant portion of the company becoming publicly traded. This meant that ownership was spread among a large number of shareholders, though the founders maintained considerable influence.

The Spin-off and Independent Era

In 2004, DreamWorks Animation SKG was spun off from DreamWorks SKG and became an independent, publicly traded company. This move allowed the animation studio to focus solely on its core business, granting it more agility and a clearer strategic direction in the competitive animation market. During its time as an independent entity, DreamWorks Animation saw a string of massive hits, including the *Shrek* sequels, *Madagascar*, *Kung Fu Panda*, and *How to Train Your Dragon*. However, this independence also came with the inherent pressures of the stock market and the need to constantly deliver box office successes to satisfy shareholders. While celebrated for its creative output, the studio also faced financial challenges at times, including some box office disappointments that could significantly impact its stock value. This period of independent operation cemented DreamWorks Animation's reputation for innovation and storytelling, but it also laid the groundwork for future changes in ownership.

The Viacom Interlude

In 2006, a significant shift occurred when Viacom, the parent company of Paramount Pictures, acquired DreamWorks Animation for approximately $1.6 billion. This acquisition was seen as a strategic move by Viacom to bolster its family entertainment offerings and gain a stronger foothold in the lucrative animation market. Under Viacom's ownership, DreamWorks Animation continued to produce popular films, but it also experienced a period of adjustment. While operating as a division within a larger conglomerate, it sometimes faced questions about creative autonomy and the integration of its distinct brand identity with Paramount’s broader portfolio. This era, though financially stable, didn't last indefinitely. Viacom itself underwent significant corporate restructuring and faced its own business challenges. The eventual sale of DreamWorks Animation by Viacom was influenced by these broader corporate dynamics and a strategic refocusing by Viacom's leadership at the time.

The Comcast Acquisition: A New Era Begins

The most recent and current chapter in DreamWorks Animation's ownership story began in 2016 when Comcast, through its NBCUniversal subsidiary, announced its intention to acquire DreamWorks Animation for $3.8 billion. This was a massive transaction that reverberated throughout Hollywood. Comcast, already a media and telecommunications giant, saw DreamWorks Animation as a valuable asset to enhance its entertainment division, NBCUniversal. The rationale behind this acquisition was multifaceted. For NBCUniversal, it meant acquiring a premier animation studio with a beloved library of characters, a consistent pipeline of successful films, and a strong brand. This acquisition allowed NBCUniversal to compete more effectively with Disney, which had already significantly expanded its animation empire through its acquisition of Pixar and Lucasfilm. The deal essentially folded DreamWorks Animation into the Universal Pictures umbrella, placing it under the operational management of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley. This move was aimed at leveraging synergies between the two entities, potentially integrating DreamWorks characters and franchises into Universal theme parks, merchandise, and other entertainment ventures. It also provided DreamWorks Animation with the financial backing and resources of a much larger corporation, potentially allowing for greater investment in its productions and a more stable environment for creativity.

Understanding the Current Corporate Structure: Comcast, NBCUniversal, and Universal Pictures

To truly grasp who owns DreamWorks Animation now, it's crucial to understand the hierarchical structure of its current parent company. It’s like a set of Russian nesting dolls, each layer containing the next.

Comcast: The Ultimate Parent Company

At the very top of this corporate food chain is Comcast Corporation. Comcast is a multinational mass media conglomerate headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's primarily known as one of the largest broadcasting and cable television companies in the world. Beyond cable services, Comcast has a vast portfolio of media and entertainment holdings. This includes NBCUniversal, Sky Group (a European pay-TV provider), and Xfinity (its internet and cable brand). In essence, Comcast is the ultimate owner, the entity that controls the purse strings and makes the overarching strategic decisions that affect its subsidiaries, including NBCUniversal and, by extension, DreamWorks Animation.

NBCUniversal: The Media and Entertainment Powerhouse

Comcast acquired a controlling stake in NBCUniversal in 2011 and completed its acquisition in 2013. NBCUniversal is a wholly owned subsidiary of Comcast and serves as its primary vehicle for its media and entertainment assets. NBCUniversal itself is a massive organization with divisions that span television (NBC Entertainment, NBC News, MSNBC, USA Network, Syfy, etc.), theme parks (Universal Parks & Resorts), film (Universal Pictures), and more. It’s within NBCUniversal that DreamWorks Animation resides. NBCUniversal operates as a distinct entity within Comcast, managing its extensive range of media properties and developing its own strategic initiatives, all under the Comcast umbrella.

Universal Pictures: The Gateway to DreamWorks Animation

Universal Pictures is the film studio division of NBCUniversal. It’s one of the oldest and most successful film studios in Hollywood, responsible for producing and distributing a wide array of films, from blockbuster franchises to independent cinema. When NBCUniversal acquired DreamWorks Animation in 2016, the animation studio was integrated into the Universal Pictures group. This means that while DreamWorks Animation maintains its distinct brand and creative identity, its operational and financial management falls under the purview of Universal Pictures. The acquisition was specifically handled by Universal Pictures, and DreamWorks Animation’s output is now distributed through Universal’s channels. This integration allows for potential cross-promotional opportunities, shared marketing efforts, and the leveraging of Universal’s extensive distribution network for DreamWorks films, both domestically and internationally.

So, to reiterate, while DreamWorks Animation is the entity that creates the beloved animated films, its ownership flows upwards through Universal Pictures, then to NBCUniversal, and ultimately to Comcast.

Why Did Comcast Acquire DreamWorks Animation? Strategic Benefits and Synergies

The $3.8 billion acquisition of DreamWorks Animation by Comcast was not an impulse buy. It was a carefully calculated move driven by a desire to expand NBCUniversal's entertainment empire and capitalize on several key strategic advantages. Let’s delve into the motivations behind this significant transaction.

Expanding the Animation Portfolio and Content Library

One of the most obvious benefits for Comcast was the immediate and substantial expansion of its animation content library. DreamWorks Animation brought with it a treasure trove of beloved characters and franchises, including Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Madagascar, and Trolls, among many others. This library is incredibly valuable in the current media landscape, which is heavily driven by intellectual property (IP) and the demand for content across various platforms—streaming, television, theme parks, and merchandise. By owning DreamWorks Animation, NBCUniversal gained a significant competitive edge against rivals like Disney, which had been aggressively building its animation portfolio through acquisitions of Pixar and Lucasfilm.

Strengthening the Theme Park Offerings

Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of NBCUniversal, is a major player in the global theme park industry. The addition of DreamWorks Animation’s characters and intellectual property provided immense opportunities to enhance and expand its theme park attractions. Imagine the possibilities of Shrek-themed rides, Kung Fu Panda shows, or How to Train Your Dragon-themed lands within Universal Studios parks. These beloved characters can draw in families and create immersive experiences that are highly lucrative. This synergy between content creation and theme park attractions is a proven strategy for entertainment conglomerates, and the DreamWorks acquisition allowed Universal to further leverage this model.

Cross-Promotional Opportunities and Franchise Expansion

Ownership by a larger entity like NBCUniversal opens up a vast array of cross-promotional opportunities. DreamWorks characters can be integrated into NBC’s television programming, be featured in commercials, and gain exposure through Universal’s film releases. Furthermore, the acquisition allows for the potential expansion of existing DreamWorks franchises and the development of new ones, backed by the financial and marketing muscle of Universal. This could mean more sequels, spin-off series, and live-action adaptations, all of which can generate significant revenue and reinforce brand loyalty.

Competitive Positioning in the Streaming Wars

In the era of streaming, content is king. By acquiring DreamWorks Animation, NBCUniversal significantly bolstered its content offerings for its own streaming service, Peacock. A robust library of family-friendly animated content is a critical component for attracting and retaining subscribers in the highly competitive streaming market. DreamWorks Animation’s films and series provide a consistent stream of popular and evergreen content that appeals to a broad demographic, making Peacock a more attractive proposition for consumers. This was a crucial consideration given the intense battle for market share among streaming platforms.

Financial Stability and Resource Allocation

As an independent company, DreamWorks Animation, like many studios, could be susceptible to the fluctuations of the box office and the pressures of public shareholders. Becoming part of Comcast/NBCUniversal provided DreamWorks Animation with the financial stability and resources of a much larger corporation. This can translate into more significant investment in animation technology, talent acquisition, and the development of ambitious projects without the immediate pressure of short-term financial performance. It also allows for more streamlined resource allocation across the broader NBCUniversal portfolio.

DreamWorks Animation Today: Operations Under Universal Pictures

Since the acquisition, DreamWorks Animation has continued to operate as a distinct animation studio, albeit under the umbrella of Universal Pictures. The day-to-day creative operations and production of animated films remain largely focused on the core competencies that made DreamWorks Animation successful in the first place. However, there have been subtle and not-so-subtle shifts reflecting its new ownership.

Maintaining Creative Identity

Crucially, NBCUniversal has largely strived to maintain the creative identity and distinct storytelling style that audiences have come to expect from DreamWorks Animation. While integration is a goal, the intention is not to homogenize the studio's output into something indistinguishable from Universal's live-action offerings. Instead, the aim is to foster a symbiotic relationship where DreamWorks Animation continues to produce its unique brand of animated entertainment, benefiting from the resources and distribution power of Universal.

Distribution and Marketing Leverage

One of the most significant impacts of the acquisition is the enhanced distribution and marketing power that DreamWorks Animation now wields. Universal Pictures has a vast global distribution network, allowing DreamWorks films to reach wider audiences more effectively. Marketing campaigns can also be more integrated and extensive, leveraging the combined marketing capabilities of both entities. This can lead to increased box office performance and a stronger presence for DreamWorks brands worldwide.

Integration with Universal Parks & Resorts

As mentioned earlier, the synergy with Universal Parks & Resorts is a key aspect of the acquisition. We've already seen this in action with the development of attractions and themed areas in Universal parks that feature DreamWorks characters. This integration is likely to deepen over time, creating a more cohesive entertainment experience for families and solidifying the value of DreamWorks’ IP across multiple platforms. For instance, the opening of DreamWorks-themed areas in Universal Studios parks around the world is a direct result of this strategic integration.

Production Pipeline and Future Projects

DreamWorks Animation continues to produce a steady stream of feature films and television series. The studio’s production pipeline remains robust, with ongoing projects that showcase its signature blend of humor, heart, and visual innovation. While specific creative decisions are always subject to the evolving landscape of the industry and corporate strategy, the core mission of producing high-quality animated content persists. Their commitment to original storytelling alongside established franchises continues, ensuring a diverse offering for audiences.

Potential for New Ventures

With the backing of Comcast and NBCUniversal, DreamWorks Animation is potentially positioned for new ventures and expanded creative endeavors. This could include exploration into new animation techniques, diversification into different genres of animation, or the development of original IP that can be leveraged across the wider NBCUniversal ecosystem. The resources available can allow for greater risk-taking and investment in groundbreaking projects that might have been more challenging to undertake as a standalone entity.

Who Owns the Characters? A Look at Intellectual Property

A common question that arises when discussing ownership is about the intellectual property (IP) – the characters, stories, and worlds that DreamWorks has created. When Comcast acquired DreamWorks Animation, they acquired the rights to all of its existing and future intellectual property.

The DreamWorks Animation IP Library

This includes iconic characters like:

Shrek and Donkey Po the Panda The dragons from How to Train Your Dragon The Madagascar crew (Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria) The Trolls characters And many more.

These characters and their associated franchises are now valuable assets of Universal Pictures and, by extension, NBCUniversal and Comcast. This means that Universal Pictures has the sole rights to produce new films, television shows, merchandise, and theme park attractions based on these characters.

Licensing and Merchandising

The ownership of this IP also allows Universal to license these characters and stories to other companies for various products and media. This generates additional revenue streams beyond box office receipts and streaming rights. Think of the toys, video games, clothing, and other merchandise that feature these beloved characters – all of this falls under the ownership umbrella of Universal Pictures.

Future Development of IP

With complete ownership, Universal Pictures can strategically decide how and when to develop these IPs further. This includes deciding on the timing and creative direction of sequels, prequels, spin-offs, and reboots. It also means that Universal is the entity that greenlights new animated projects from the DreamWorks Animation studio, ensuring that they align with the broader corporate strategy and IP portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions About DreamWorks Animation Ownership

The ownership of a major studio like DreamWorks Animation can be complex, leading to a number of common questions. Here, we aim to provide clear and detailed answers.

How does the current ownership structure impact the creative process at DreamWorks Animation?

The impact of the current ownership structure on the creative process at DreamWorks Animation is a nuanced topic. On one hand, becoming part of a larger conglomerate like NBCUniversal, under the ultimate ownership of Comcast, provides DreamWorks Animation with a substantial financial safety net and access to more resources. This can be incredibly beneficial for creativity, allowing for greater investment in high-quality animation, cutting-edge technology, and the development of ambitious projects that might have been too risky or expensive for an independent studio. The backing of Universal Pictures can also mean more robust marketing and distribution, which can give creative teams more confidence that their work will reach a wide audience.

However, it's also true that operating within a large corporate structure can introduce its own set of dynamics. Creative decisions, while ideally driven by artistic vision, are ultimately subject to business objectives and strategic alignment with the parent company's goals. This can sometimes lead to pressures to develop projects that are seen as more commercially viable or that leverage existing popular franchises. The creative teams at DreamWorks Animation likely navigate this by focusing on telling compelling stories within the frameworks that are provided, finding ways to infuse their unique artistic voice into projects that are also commercially sound. It's a balancing act that is common in the entertainment industry. Furthermore, the integration with Universal means that there might be increased collaboration or input on projects that have the potential for synergy with other Universal properties, such as theme parks or live-action films. While the core creative teams remain intact and continue to produce films in the distinct DreamWorks Animation style, the overarching strategic direction and approval processes are influenced by their position within NBCUniversal and Universal Pictures.

Why was DreamWorks Animation sold multiple times?

DreamWorks Animation's history of multiple sales is a reflection of the dynamic and often volatile nature of the entertainment industry, coupled with evolving corporate strategies. Each sale had its own set of driving factors:

Founding and IPO: The initial formation of DreamWorks SKG by Spielberg, Katzenberg, and Geffen was an ambitious attempt to create a new, diversified entertainment powerhouse. The subsequent spin-off of DreamWorks Animation as an independent, publicly traded company in 2004 was driven by a desire to focus on the animation business and allow it to operate with more agility in its specific market. This IPO allowed for public investment and growth but also exposed the company to the pressures of shareholder expectations and market performance.

Acquisition by Viacom (2006): Viacom's acquisition of DreamWorks Animation for $1.6 billion in 2006 was a strategic move to bolster its content library and family entertainment offerings, particularly with the success of the *Shrek* franchise. Viacom aimed to integrate DreamWorks' animated content into its broader media portfolio, including Paramount Pictures. However, this period also coincided with financial challenges and strategic shifts within Viacom itself. The integration may not have yielded all the expected synergies, and Viacom, like many large conglomerates, periodically re-evaluates its asset portfolio.

Acquisition by Comcast (2016): The most recent and significant sale, where Comcast acquired DreamWorks Animation for $3.8 billion through its NBCUniversal subsidiary, was driven by several key strategic imperatives for Comcast. These included strengthening NBCUniversal's position in the highly competitive animation space, expanding its intellectual property portfolio for theme parks and consumer products, and bolstering content for its burgeoning streaming service, Peacock. Disney's aggressive expansion in animation through acquisitions of Pixar and Lucasfilm likely also played a role in Comcast's desire to secure a premier animation studio. Essentially, each sale represents a realignment of corporate strategies, market opportunities, and the pursuit of synergistic growth within the ever-evolving media landscape. Companies are constantly looking to acquire assets that enhance their competitive position, expand their content offerings, and create new revenue streams.

What does it mean for fans that Universal Pictures now owns DreamWorks Animation?

For fans of DreamWorks Animation, the ownership by Universal Pictures, under the NBCUniversal and Comcast umbrella, brings both continuity and potential evolution. On the continuity side, the fundamental creative engine of DreamWorks Animation—the artists, writers, directors, and animators responsible for bringing beloved characters to life—largely remains intact. The studio continues to produce animated feature films and series in its distinctive style, so the core experience of watching a DreamWorks movie is unlikely to change drastically. Fans can continue to look forward to sequels and new original stories from their favorite franchises like *Shrek*, *Kung Fu Panda*, and *How to Train Your Dragon*.

On the evolution side, the integration with Universal Pictures opens up exciting new possibilities. You might see a more significant presence of DreamWorks characters in Universal theme parks, with new rides, shows, and themed lands that offer immersive experiences. There's also the potential for greater cross-promotion between DreamWorks films and other Universal properties, such as live-action films or television shows. For example, characters might make cameos in other projects, or joint marketing campaigns could be launched. Furthermore, with the backing of Comcast and NBCUniversal, DreamWorks Animation has the resources to potentially tackle more ambitious projects, experiment with new technologies, or develop entirely new franchises that can be leveraged across various platforms, including Universal's streaming service, Peacock. While the ownership has changed hands, the underlying goal for Universal is to leverage the immense popularity and creative output of DreamWorks Animation to enhance its overall entertainment portfolio, which ultimately benefits fans by ensuring a consistent flow of quality content and new entertainment experiences.

Will DreamWorks Animation continue to make original films, or will they focus only on sequels?

DreamWorks Animation has a well-established history of both producing sequels to its successful franchises and developing original IPs. This dual approach is a cornerstone of their strategy and is expected to continue under Universal Pictures' ownership. While franchises like *Shrek*, *Kung Fu Panda*, and *How to Train Your Dragon* have immense fan bases and offer a reliable source of revenue and brand recognition, the studio has also found significant success with original films. These original stories are crucial for nurturing new intellectual property, attracting new audiences, and fostering creative innovation. The acquisition by Comcast/NBCUniversal, with its vast resources, actually provides a stronger platform for both strategies. It means that DreamWorks Animation can continue to invest in and develop original stories, knowing that they have the financial backing and distribution power to give them a significant launch. Simultaneously, the studio can continue to expand its beloved franchises, capitalizing on established fan loyalty. The key will be finding the right balance, as both original storytelling and successful franchise management are vital for the long-term health and creative vitality of any animation studio. You can expect a mix of both, as this has historically been the studio's successful formula.

Who is currently in charge of DreamWorks Animation creatively and operationally?

While the ultimate ownership resides with Comcast/NBCUniversal and Universal Pictures, the day-to-day operations and creative leadership of DreamWorks Animation remain with experienced individuals within the studio. Following the acquisition by Universal in 2016, the leadership structure saw some adjustments. Donna Langley, Chairman of Universal Pictures, plays a key role in overseeing the integration and strategic direction of DreamWorks Animation within the Universal Filmed Entertainment Group. However, the creative and operational management within DreamWorks Animation itself continues to be led by seasoned executives and filmmakers who have been instrumental in the studio's success. Jeff Hermann has served as the studio head of DreamWorks Animation. While specific titles and roles can evolve, the intention has been to preserve the core creative talent and leadership that understands the DreamWorks brand and its appeal. The creative vision for individual films is typically driven by directors and producers who are given the space to execute their artistic intentions, albeit within the strategic framework set by Universal Pictures. The studio operates with a degree of creative autonomy, allowing it to maintain its unique voice and storytelling approach, while benefiting from the resources and distribution might of its parent companies.

The Impact of Ownership on Hollywood's Animation Landscape

The ownership of DreamWorks Animation by Universal Pictures represents more than just a change in corporate structure; it has significant implications for the broader animation industry. This consolidation of power among major media conglomerates affects competition, content creation, and the types of stories that get told.

Consolidation and Competition

The acquisition of DreamWorks Animation by Comcast was part of a larger trend of consolidation within the entertainment industry. As major players like Disney and WarnerMedia have grown through acquisitions, companies like Comcast have sought to strengthen their positions. This means that the landscape of major animation studios is becoming more concentrated, with a few dominant players controlling a significant portion of the market. While this can lead to greater efficiency and resources for the studios involved, it also raises questions about the diversity of voices and the breadth of creative risks that might be taken. It could potentially lead to a more competitive environment for smaller, independent animation studios, making it harder for them to compete for talent, distribution, and audience attention.

Influence on Content Trends

When a major conglomerate owns a successful animation studio, there's a natural inclination to leverage its most popular intellectual property. This can lead to a greater emphasis on sequels, spin-offs, and franchise extensions. While these can be highly successful, there's a concern that it might come at the expense of original, riskier projects. The demand for content across streaming, theatrical releases, and theme parks means that studios are looking for reliable assets. DreamWorks Animation’s rich library is a prime example of this. However, the resources provided by Universal can also empower the studio to champion bold original ideas, provided they align with the overarching business strategy. The ultimate balance between franchise building and original storytelling will be a key factor in shaping the future of animated content.

Talent and Creative Autonomy

The acquisition raises questions about the impact on talent and creative autonomy. While companies often aim to retain key creative personnel, the corporate culture and decision-making processes of a larger organization can differ significantly. It's possible that creative teams might experience more oversight or pressure to conform to certain creative or business objectives. However, it's also true that access to greater resources and a wider platform can empower artists to realize their visions on a grander scale. The success of DreamWorks Animation under Universal will depend on how well the parent company can foster an environment that supports both creative freedom and strategic business goals.

Synergy with Theme Parks and Merchandising

One of the most significant impacts is the enhanced synergy between animation and other entertainment sectors, particularly theme parks and merchandising. Universal Parks & Resorts can now more deeply integrate DreamWorks characters and worlds into its attractions, creating a more immersive and cohesive experience for visitors. This also means a greater focus on developing characters and stories that have strong merchandising potential, as these IPs can generate substantial revenue across a wide range of products. This integration is a powerful driver for conglomerates like Comcast, as it creates multiple revenue streams from a single intellectual property.

Conclusion: A Powerful Alliance in the Animation World

In conclusion, the question "Who owns DreamWorks now?" leads us to a clear answer: Universal Pictures, a subsidiary of NBCUniversal, which is ultimately owned by Comcast Corporation. This ownership structure represents a significant consolidation of power and resources within the entertainment industry. The acquisition has provided DreamWorks Animation with the financial stability and strategic backing of a global media giant, while Universal Pictures has gained a premier animation studio with a treasure trove of beloved intellectual property. This powerful alliance has reshaped the competitive landscape of animation, offering exciting opportunities for content creation, theme park attractions, and cross-promotional synergy. While the corporate hierarchy is complex, the artistic output and the magic that DreamWorks Animation brings to the screen continue to be a vital part of the global entertainment ecosystem, now with the formidable backing of Comcast.

The integration of DreamWorks Animation into the Universal Pictures family underscores the ongoing trend of consolidation in Hollywood. It highlights the immense value of strong intellectual property and the strategic importance of animation in a multi-platform entertainment world. As fans, we can anticipate continued innovation and beloved stories from DreamWorks, now amplified by the reach and resources of one of the world’s largest media companies. The future looks bright, and the animated adventures are sure to continue.