DreamWorks announces new release strategy

GLENDALE, Calif., May 28 (UPI) -- California's DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc. Thursday announced plans to start releasing five feature films every two years.

The studio said the strategy means it will add an additional movie every other year to its existing two-picture-a-year release schedule on a "going-forward" basis.

The company's slate through 2012 includes eight feature films, including five original films and three sequels based on the company's existing blockbuster franchises, "Shrek," "Madagascar" and "Kung Fu Panda."

As has been previously announced, all DreamWorks Animation feature films are now being produced in 3D.

"Our exceptionally talented and highly experienced creative team is bringing to DreamWorks Animation a significant number of imaginative, original and cutting-edge ideas today," Bill Damaschke, co-president of production and president of live theatrical, said in a statement. "Having achieved a high level of success and consistency in our creative process and having in our development pipeline more great story concepts than ever before, we are very confident in our ability to add one original film every other year."

"We are thrilled with our exciting line-up of feature projects," DreamWorks Animation Chief Operating Officer Ann Daly said. "With so many promising original ideas and new franchise chapters in our pipeline, we believe this is the perfect time to share our theatrical plans for the next few years as we continue to lead the 3D charge and push creative boundaries to bring our stories to life."