Why is DreamWorks Called That?

DreamWorks is an iconic entertainment company that has captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide since its founding in 1994 by film director and producer Steven Spielberg, former Disney executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, and music executive David Geffen. But have you ever wondered why they chose the name 'DreamWorks'? Let's delve into the fascinating story behind this name and its significance in the world of entertainment.

City of Angels, City of Dreams

Los Angeles, the city where the seeds of DreamWorks were sown, is often referred to as the “City of Angels”. However, it is also known as the “City of Dreams”. This moniker perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the place, which has been the birthplace of countless dreams. Just as the city itself is a haven for those who seek to turn their aspirations into reality, DreamWorks was founded to serve as a “factory for dreams.”

The name “DreamWorks” was chosen to reflect the company’s mission of creating a place where dreams are realized, just as they are in Hollywood blockbusters. This powerful moniker was derived from the slogan that describes a place where dreams are made. By naming the company ‘DreamWorks’, the founders emphasized the creative and transformative power of storytelling and media.

The Birth of DreamWorks

On October 12, 1994, a trio of entertainment giants—Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and David Geffen—announced the formation of DreamWorks SKG. The name SKG is derived from the first letters of the founders’ surnames: Spielberg, Katzenberg, and Geffen. The trio, all experienced and successful in their respective fields, came together with the goal of creating a film production studio that would stand out in the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry.

DreamWorks SKG was founded as a joint venture between Universal Pictures (now part of NBCUniversal) and itself, with the founders owning 72% of the shares. The company has since made a name for itself as a production powerhouse, producing a wide range of films, television shows, and theatrical productions.

The Name as a Slogan

The name 'DreamWorks' is not just a simple brand name; it is a powerful slogan that conveys a message of possibility and transformation. Just as ironworks, glassworks, steelworks, and other 'works' suggest the creation and refinement of materials to make things, DreamWorks suggests the creation and refinement of dreams.

In the early days of the company, Katzenberg used this concept to explain the idea behind DreamWorks to potential partners and investors. He said, 'Think of us not as a studio, but as a factory for dreams.' Through this analogy, the founders intended to convey that DreamWorks was not just a place to produce movies but a place where dreams could be given life, transformed, and brought to the silver screen.

The Evolution of DreamWorks

Over the years, DreamWorks has evolved into a diversified entertainment company, expanding its horizons beyond film production. The studio has acquired DreamWorks Classics, a company known for its collection of films, and has also become a subsidiary of Pacific Data Images Inc. This move has further solidified its position in the industry, making it a significant player in the production of both theatrical and television content.

Some key figures associated with DreamWorks include:

Jeffrey Katzenberg: Known for his creative vision and role in popularizing digital animation. Bonnie Arnold: A pioneering woman in the animation industry, known for her work in producing hit movies like Shrek. David Geffen: A music industry veteran who brought his entrepreneurial spirit to DreamWorks, helping to shape its business model.

DreamWorks Pictures, as the company is commonly known, is now a part of Amblin Partners, a film production label that includes Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment. With its rich history and continued success, DreamWorks has become synonymous with the creation of memorable stories and the realization of dreams in the entertainment industry.

From its inception in the City of Angels to its current status as a leading entertainment company, DreamWorks remains true to its name. By being a 'factory for dreams', it has inspired countless people to believe that anything is possible, just like the transformative power of dreams in Hollywood movies.