| The year 2000 was an important one for The Walt Disney Studios, which realized solid performances from each of its business units as it implemented an updated business and creative strategy for the future. Peter Schneider, formerly president of The Walt Disney Studios, took the helm as chairman last February, bringing a renewed focus on quality and artistic achievement while also reducing overall production and distribution costs. With an eye toward reinvigorating Walt Disney-branded entertainment while continuing to build on the Touchstone live-action film and Buena Vista music labels' success, The Walt Disney Studios developed a strong, well-rounded portfolio during the year.
The Walt Disney Studios maintained its premier position in the marketplace, winning the year in box office receipts for the third time in a row and the sixth time in the last decade. The international division became the only company to hit the $1 billion box office mark six years in a row. Buena Vista Home Entertainment also maintained its top position in the marketplace for the 13th consecutive year.
Other initiatives designed to improve The Walt Disney Studios' overall performance include the creation of The Secret Lab, an in-house special effects, new media and computer animation facility, which developed the groundbreaking live-action and animation wizardry that was unveiled in the hit feature Dinosaur; the revamping of the home video strategy; and the consolidation of film and video marketing. |
