GLENDALE, Calif., Oct. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (Nasdaq: DWA) today announced the retention of Chuck Viane as a distribution consultant to the Company. Viane will be working with DreamWorks Animation executives on a consultancy basis, effective immediately. He has a wealth of experience from 25 years in the industry and will provide counsel on the implementation of the studio’s future distribution plans.
“In addition to being a truly great guy, Chuck is one of the smartest, most experienced and respected leaders in the industry and I don’t know of anyone with a deeper understanding of the movie landscape, its trends and its future,” said DreamWorks Animation Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Katzenberg. “At this strategic moment in time for DreamWorks Animation, I am confident that he will serve as an invaluable resource.”
“I’ve known Jeffrey Katzenberg for 26 years and he was a close colleague of mine during our time together at Disney,” said Viane. “Under his leadership, I believe that DreamWorks Animation has truly become a studio for the 21st Century and I look forward to helping shape their future distribution strategy.”
Viane previously served as President of Global Distribution for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Prior to Viane’s distinguished 25-year career with Disney, from which he retired early this year, he served as Vice President and Head Buyer for General Cinema Theater Corp.



Wow, that sounds like a pretty big get. Is this DWA preparing for a split with Paramount?
Chuck is the best – smart, funny, experienced, and wise. It is so refreshing to talk theatrical distribution with somebody who is not a home video number cruncher. go DWA!
You will not find one person in the industry (or outside the industry) that has a negative thing to say about Chuck. He is simply the greatest. This is an enormous catch for Jeffrey. Getting Chuck to retire from retiring (if even to merely to consult) is HUGE.
Total class act and truly amazing at his job. Great hire.
Chuck is by far the classiest and nicest guy in entertainment. It was a true pleasure doing business with him while he was at Disney. I am glad to hear that he may still be around to share a glass of wine and a good talk with.
He is the best,excited to have him back in the industry.They dont make them like him any more.
As an exhibitor, all dealings that I had with Chuck were always above board and very cordial. DreamWorks could not have found anyone better and more knowledgeable. It certainly looks as if DreamWorks will start their own distribution system. Congrats to all.
I was privileged to work for Chuck and later had business dealings as well with this honest, hard working, and honorable man. Great news and a great move.