Research Guru / Moderator
Posted:
Jan 24, 2012, 4:16 PM
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Gregg Taylor named head of development for DWA
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Gregg Taylor has been named head of development for DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc., a role previously held by Alex Schwartz, the studio announced Tuesday.
Schwartz will serve as a producer on the studio's feature film Mr. Peabody & Sherman, scheduled for release on March 14, 2014. Taylor will oversee the development of all projects at DWA.
"Gregg is an exceptional executive with a wide range of creative experience that will positively influence our future slate. I am confident that he will thrive as the new leader of DreamWorks Animation's development team," said DreamWorks Animation chief creative officer Bill Damaschke. "Alex's exemplary work in development over the years makes her an ideal choice to assume the role of producer on Mr. Peabody & Sherman, and I look forward to her continued creative input and leadership. On behalf of the entire studio, I offer heartfelt congratulations to both Gregg and Alex as they take on their new roles."
"To be able to make movies with the incredibly talented team of executives and artists at DreamWorks Animation is an absolute privilege," said Taylor. "This studio is a very special place, and I am deeply grateful to be working alongside Jeffrey, Bill and Ann Daly as we strive to tell great stories and find innovative ways to expand our business."
"I have enjoyed four wonderful years overseeing development at DreamWorks Animation, thanks in large part to the unparalleled quality of my team, including Gregg, Damon Ross and Chris Kuser," added Schwartz. "I am eager to take on the next creative challenge of producing Mr. Peabody & Sherman, which has long been a passion project of mine. I am thrilled to be working with the immensely talented director Rob Minkoff and partnering with veteran DreamWorks producer Denise Cascino."
Taylor previously served as a senior development and production executive, overseeing DreamWorks Animation's expanding franchise properties, including the upcoming sequel to How to Train Your Dragon, as well as The Penguins of Madagascar and the company's TV initiatives. Taylor served six years as executive vice-president of development and production for The Kennedy/Marshall Company, during which time the company produced The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Persepolis and The Bourne Ultimatum, among others. His relationship with DreamWorks Animation began with Shrek when Taylor ran Mike Myers' production company, where he co-produced Austin Powers in Goldmember and executive produced The Cat in the Hat for Imagine Entertainment.
In her role as DreamWorks Animation's head of development since 2008, Schwartz oversaw the creative group on current and future feature film projects, including Rise of the Guardians, Mr. Peabody & Sherman and Trolls (working title). Prior to joining the company, she served as Walden Media's executive vice-president, where she was in charge of the creative group and served as executive producer on films including Holes, Bridge to Terabithia, Charlotte's Web and Journey 3D to the Center of the Earth. Schwartz began her career as an executive at Touchstone Pictures.
(This post was edited by eminovitz on Jan 24, 2012, 4:16 PM)
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