DreamWorks Animation SKG (DWA) 10-K 25 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 12, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,297,401
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 783,250,031
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		78,520,673
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		7,838,731

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 110,814	$ 34,227
Restricted cash	40	25,244
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	271,466	160,379
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	230,569	271,256
Film and other inventory costs, net	820,454	827,890
Prepaid expenses	29,133	17,555
Other assets	73,924	40,408
Investments in unconsolidated entities	32,814	35,330
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization	37,765	180,607
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization	172,328	186,141
Goodwill	190,668	190,668
Total assets	1,969,975	1,969,705
Liabilities:
Accounts payable	10,847	9,031
Accrued liabilities	199,665	190,217
Payable to former stockholder	20,776	10,455
Deferred revenue and other advances	74,659	33,895
Deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction	87,410	0
Revolving credit facility	60,000	215,000
Senior unsecured notes	300,000	300,000
Deferred taxes, net	17,778	16,709
Total liabilities	$ 771,135	$ 775,307
Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)
DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Stockholders' Equity:
Additional paid-in capital	$ 1,227,220	$ 1,172,806
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(3,642)	(1,827)
Retained earnings	707,978	762,784
Less: Class A Treasury common stock, at cost, 28,401,898 and 27,884,524 shares, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively	(789,186)	(778,541)
Total DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. stockholders' equity	1,143,517	1,156,357
Non-controlling interests	55,323	38,041
Total equity	1,198,840	1,194,398
Total liabilities and equity	1,969,975	1,969,705
Class A Common Stock [Member]
DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock	1,069	1,057
Class B Common Stock [Member]
DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock	$ 78	$ 78

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	350,000,000	350,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	106,907,772	105,718,014
Treasury common stock, shares	28,401,898	27,884,524
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	150,000,000	150,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	7,838,731	7,838,731
Common stock, shares outstanding	7,838,731	7,838,731

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	$ 915,863	$ 684,623	$ 706,916
Operating expenses (income):
Costs of revenues	526,286	681,113	416,383
Selling and marketing	43,640	61,252	39,424
General and administrative	332,736	262,013	184,631
Product development	4,655	5,217	3,347
Change in fair value of contingent consideration	0	(16,500)	1,500
Other operating income (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	(7,893)	(8,429)	(14,709)
Operating income (loss)	16,439	(300,043)	76,340
Non-operating income (expense):
Interest expense, net	(23,334)	(11,866)	(57)
Other (expense) income, net	(9,650)	(14,361)	6,187
(Increase) decrease in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder	(17,673)	253,861	(675)
(Loss) income before loss from equity method investees and income taxes	(34,218)	(72,409)	81,795
Loss from equity method investees	15,491	13,808	6,891
(Loss) income before income taxes	(49,709)	(86,217)	74,904
Provision for income taxes	4,255	222,104	19,181
Net (loss) income	(53,964)	(308,321)	55,723
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	842	1,293	639
Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.	$ (54,806)	$ (309,614)	$ 55,084
Net (loss) income per share of common stock attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.
Basic net (loss) income per share	$ (0.64)	$ (3.65)	$ 0.66
Diluted net (loss) income per share	$ (0.64)	$ (3.65)	$ 0.65
Shares used in computing net (loss) income per share
Basic (in shares)	85,841	84,771	83,994
Diluted (in shares)	85,841	84,771	85,293

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net (loss) income	$ (53,964)	$ (308,321)	$ 55,723
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation losses	(1,815)	(1,227)	(913)
Comprehensive (loss) income	(55,779)	(309,548)	54,810
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests	842	1,293	639
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.	$ (56,621)	$ (310,841)	$ 54,171

Consolidated Statements of Equi

Consolidated Statements of Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Total DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Stockholders' Equity [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Class A Treasury Common Stock [Member]	Non-controlling Interests [Member]
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2012			110,526				25,662
Balance, beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 1,346,246	$ 1,345,616	$ 1,105	$ 1,057,452	$ 313	$ 1,017,314	$ (730,568)	$ 630
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares, shares			1,469
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares	6,883	6,883	$ 15	6,868
Stock-based compensation	35,781	35,781		35,781
Purchase of treasury shares, shares							1,777
Purchase of treasury shares	(37,656)	(37,656)					$ (37,656)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(913)	(913)			(913)
Distributions to non-controlling interest holder	(45)							(45)
Net (loss) income	55,723	55,084				55,084		639
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	1,406,019	1,404,795	$ 1,120	1,100,101	(600)	1,072,398	$ (768,224)	1,224
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013			111,995				27,439
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares, shares			1,562
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares	12,543	12,543	$ 15	12,528
Stock-based compensation	33,950	33,950		33,950
Purchase of treasury shares, shares							445
Purchase of treasury shares	(10,317)	(10,317)					$ (10,317)
Sale of non-controlling equity interest in AwesomenessTV, net of tax effect of $19,272	61,978	26,227		26,227				35,751
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(1,227)	(1,227)			(1,227)
Distributions to non-controlling interest holder	(227)							(227)
Net (loss) income	(308,321)	(309,614)				(309,614)		1,293
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	1,194,398	1,156,357	$ 1,135	1,172,806	(1,827)	762,784	$ (778,541)	38,041
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014			113,557				27,884
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares, shares			1,190
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises and vesting of restricted shares	0	0	$ 12	(12)
Stock-based compensation	31,864	31,864		31,864
Purchase of treasury shares, shares							518
Purchase of treasury shares	(10,645)	(10,645)					$ (10,645)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(1,815)	(1,815)			(1,815)
Capital contributions from non-controlling interest holders	40,000	22,562		22,562				17,438
Distributions to non-controlling interest holder	(998)							(998)
Net (loss) income	(53,964)	(54,806)				(54,806)		842
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 1,198,840	$ 1,143,517	$ 1,147	$ 1,227,220	$ (3,642)	$ 707,978	$ (789,186)	$ 55,323
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015			114,747				28,402

Consolidated Statements of Equ7

Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Equity [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Sale of Parent Equity Interest, Tax Effect	$ 19,272

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating activities
Net (loss) income	$ (53,964)	$ (308,321)	$ 55,723
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Amortization and write-off of film and other inventory costs	441,207	625,567	360,480
Other impairments and write-offs	11,933	19,591	650
Amortization of intangible and other assets	23,596	14,544	10,475
Depreciation and amortization	30,196	6,491	4,459
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,302	1,173	338
Amortization of deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction	(1,993)	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense	21,156	19,302	18,531
Change in fair value of contingent consideration	0	(16,500)	1,500
Revenue earned against deferred revenue and other advances	(109,072)	(65,193)	(95,631)
Income related to investment contributions	(6,284)	(8,429)	(16,145)
Gain on sale of a technology project	0	0	(6,377)
Loss from equity method investees	15,491	13,808	6,891
Deferred taxes, net	1,062	222,066	20,394
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effects of acquisitions:
Restricted cash	25,201	(25,000)	0
Trade accounts receivable	(107,175)	(20,866)	(26,094)
Receivables from distributors	39,569	9,456	(17,430)
Film and other inventory costs	(411,444)	(484,285)	(440,416)
Intangible assets	0	0	1,021
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(60,613)	(32,827)	(9,459)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	14,804	22,627	44,975
Payable to former stockholder	10,321	(251,854)	(15,322)
Income taxes payable/receivable, net	(1,657)	(836)	449
Deferred revenue and other advances	167,873	97,041	127,980
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	52,509	(162,445)	26,992
Investing activities
Investments in unconsolidated entities	(18,136)	(20,645)	(19,451)
Proceeds from sale of a technology project	0	0	6,409
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(22,729)	(34,358)	(39,385)
Acquisitions of character and distribution rights	0	(51,000)	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	(12,605)	(32,120)
Net cash used in investing activities	(40,865)	(118,608)	(84,547)
Financing activities
Proceeds from stock option exercises	0	12,167	6,886
Deferred financing costs	(6,286)	0	(7,732)
Purchase of treasury stock	(10,645)	(10,318)	(37,656)
Borrowings from revolving credit facility	425,405	250,000	68,000
Repayments of borrowings from revolving credit facility	(580,405)	(35,000)	(233,000)
Proceeds from lease financing obligation	199,203	0	0
Repayments of lease financing obligation	(1,378)	0	0
Borrowings from senior unsecured notes	0	0	300,000
Contingent consideration payment	(335)	(79,665)	0
Proceeds from sale of non-controlling equity interest in ATV	0	81,250	0
Capital contributions from non-controlling interest holders	40,000	0	0
Distributions to non-controlling interest holder	(998)	(227)	0
Net cash provided by financing activities	64,561	218,207	96,498
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	382	1,606	(2,722)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	76,587	(61,240)	36,221
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	34,227	95,467	59,246
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	110,814	34,227	95,467
Non-cash investing activities:
Contingent consideration portion of business acquisition purchase price	0	0	95,000
Intellectual property and technology licenses granted in exchange for equity interest	6,085	7,730	13,596
Services provided in exchange for equity interest	199	776	2,675
Total non-cash investing activities	6,284	8,506	111,271
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid (refunded) during the year for income taxes, net	4,994	1,209	(1,693)
Cash paid during the year for interest, net of amounts capitalized	$ 23,719	$ 14,325	$ 0

Description of Business

Description of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business	Description of Business Business The business of DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. ("DreamWorks Animation" or the "Company") is primarily devoted to the development, production and exploitation of animated films (and other audiovisual programs) and their associated characters in the worldwide theatrical, home entertainment, digital, television, merchandising, licensing and other markets. The Company derives revenue from Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation's worldwide (excluding China and South Korea) exploitation of its films in the theatrical and post-theatrical markets. Pursuant to a binding term sheet (the "Fox Distribution Agreement") entered into with Twentieth Century Fox and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (collectively, "Fox"), the Company has agreed to license Fox certain exclusive distribution rights and exclusively engage Fox to render fulfillment services with respect to certain of the Company's animated feature films and other audiovisual programs theatrically released during the five -year period beginning on January 1, 2013. As of July 1, 2014, Fox has also been licensed and engaged to render fulfillment services for the Company's feature films theatrically released prior to January 1, 2013 in theatrical, non-theatrical, home entertainment and digital media. The rights licensed to, and serviced by, Fox will terminate on the date that is one year after the initial home video release date in the United States ("U.S.") of the last film theatrically released by Fox during such five -year period, subject to licenses approved by the Company during such period that extend beyond such period. In addition, the Company continues to derive revenues from the distribution by Paramount Pictures Corporation, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc., ("Viacom"), and its affiliates (collectively, "Paramount") of its feature films released prior to January 1, 2013 pursuant to a distribution agreement and a fulfillment services agreement (collectively, the "Paramount Agreements"). As of July 1, 2014, the Company reacquired certain distribution rights to its feature films from Paramount, which rights have been licensed to Fox (as noted above). The amount paid to reacquire these rights was recorded as a definite-lived intangible asset (see Note 8). Paramount will continue to exploit and render fulfillment services in the television and related media for feature films released prior to January 1, 2013 until the date that is 16 years after such film's theatrical release, and will continue to exploit and service certain other agreements with Paramount's sublicensees that remain in place after July 1, 2014. See Note 4 for further discussion of the Fox Distribution Agreement and the Paramount Agreements. The Company generally retains all other rights to exploit its films, including commercial tie-in and promotional rights with respect to each film, as well as merchandising, interactive, literary publishing, music publishing and soundtrack rights. The Company's activities associated with its episodic series and AwesomenessTV ("ATV") business are generally not subject to the Company's distribution agreements with its theatrical distributors. ATV is a multi-media platform company that generates revenues primarily from the production and distribution of content across a variety of channels, including short-form online video, theatrical, home entertainment, television and online video-on-demand, and sponsorship arrangements. On December 11, 2014, the Company entered into a Unit Purchase Agreement (the "Unit Purchase Agreement") with an affiliate of Hearst Corporation ("Hearst"). Pursuant to the Unit Purchase Agreement, Hearst acquired a 25% equity interest in a newly formed joint venture ("ATV Joint Venture") conducting the ATV business. The Company is consolidating the results of this joint venture because the Company continues to retain control over the operations of ATV. The Company continues to expand its library and increase the value of its intellectual property assets by developing and producing new episodic series and other non-theatrical content based on characters from its feature films. In addition, the Company has an extensive library of other intellectual property rights which can be exploited in various markets. The Company's activities also include technology initiatives as it explores opportunities to exploit its internally developed software.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements of the Company present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of DreamWorks Animation and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. The Company also consolidates less-than-wholly owned entities if the Company has a controlling financial interest in that entity. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Intra-entity profit related to transactions with equity method investees is eliminated until the amounts are ultimately realized. In addition, the Company reviews its relationships with other entities to identify whether they are variable interest entities ("VIE") as defined by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB"), and to assess whether the Company is the primary beneficiary of such entity. If the determination is made that the Company is the primary beneficiary, then the entity is consolidated. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company determined that it continued to have a variable interest in Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited ("ODW") as ODW does not have sufficient equity at risk (i.e., cash on hand to fund its operations) as a result of the timing of capital contributions to the entity in accordance with the Transaction and Contribution Agreement (see Note 9). However, the Company concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary of ODW as it does not have deemed control of ODW. As a result, it does not consolidate ODW into its financial statements. Refer to Note 9 for further discussion of how the Company accounts for its investment in ODW, including the remaining contributions (which represent the maximum exposure to the Company). Reclassifications Certain amounts in the prior period consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the Company's 2015 presentation. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant estimates made by management in the preparation of the financial statements relate to the following: • ultimate revenues and ultimate costs of film and television product; • relative selling price of the Company's products for purposes of revenue allocation in multi-property licenses and other multiple deliverable arrangements; • determination of fair value of assets and liabilities for the allocation of the purchase price in an acquisition; • determination of the fair value of reporting units for purposes of testing goodwill for impairment; • determination of fair value of non-cash contributions to investments in unconsolidated entities; • useful lives of intangible assets; • product sales that will be returned and the amount of receivables that ultimately will be collected; • the potential outcome of future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements; • loss contingencies and contingent consideration arrangements; and • assumptions used in the determination of the fair value of equity-based awards for stock-based compensation or their probability of vesting. Actual results could differ from those estimates. To the extent that there are material differences between these estimates and actual results, the Company's financial condition or results of operations will be affected. Estimates are based on past experience and other assumptions that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances, and management evaluates these estimates on an ongoing basis. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit and short-term money market investments, primarily comprised of U.S. government securities, that are rated AAA and with maturities of three months or less when purchased. As of December 31, 2015, approximately 58% of the Company's cash and cash equivalents was held by two of the Company's joint ventures which are fully consolidated. Restricted Cash As of December 31, 2014, restricted cash primarily represents cash accounts maintained by the ATV Joint Venture in which the Company owns a 75% interest. Pursuant to the venture's operating agreement, $25.0 million of the initial cash contribution could not be commingled with other corporate cash accounts and could only be used to fund the working capital of the ATV Joint Venture. As of December 31, 2015, the remaining balance of this restricted cash amount was zero . Trade Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable primarily consists of the following: receivables from licensees of the Company's intellectual property for use in various ancillary markets (such as merchandising, theme parks and cruise ships), receivables from licensees of film catalog and television series/specials titles and receivables related to the distribution of home video product. The Company imputes interest on receivables that are expected to be collectible during a period that exceeds 12 months and at a rate that represents the Company's best estimate of the rate at which the debtor can obtain financing of a similar nature from other sources at the date of the transaction. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, trade accounts receivable included receivables totaling $142.7 million and $85.1 million , respectively, which were reduced by unamortized discounts totaling $14.3 million and $5.1 million , respectively. Interest rates used to impute interest ranged from 3% to 14% . The Company routinely reviews outstanding trade accounts receivable balances to determine whether an allowance for doubtful accounts should be recorded. The Company records an allowance for doubtful accounts for receivables on a specific identification basis. Investments Investments associated with the Company's non-qualified deferred compensation plan (see Note 17) are classified as available-for-sale. Such investments are recorded at fair value, based on quoted prices in active markets, and unrealized gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , unrealized gains and losses were not material. Investments are reviewed on a regular basis to evaluate whether a decline in fair value below cost is other than temporary. There were no other-than-temporary investment losses recorded for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . Financial Instruments The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable, advances and amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility approximates carrying value due to the short-term maturity of such instruments and floating interest rates. As of December 31, 2015 , the fair value of trade accounts receivable approximated carrying value due to the similarities in the initial and current discount rates. In addition, as of December 31, 2015 , the fair value and the carrying value of the senior unsecured notes was $308.0 million and $300.0 million , respectively. The fair value of trade accounts receivable and the senior unsecured notes was determined using significant unobservable inputs by performing a discounted cash flow analysis and using current discount rates as appropriate for each type of instrument. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company limits its exposure to credit loss by placing its cash and cash equivalents in short-term money-market investments, which are rated AAA, with several financial institutions. Such investments, which are included in "Cash and cash equivalents" on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value, based on quoted prices in active markets. There were no unrealized gains or losses associated with these investments at December 31, 2015 . For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded interest income of $4.6 million , $4.6 million and $4.2 million , respectively, from these instruments. Investments in Unconsolidated Entities The Company has investments in unconsolidated entities which are presented on its consolidated balance sheets (refer to Note 9). In exchange for its ownership in such entities, the Company makes investments in the form of cash and/or non-cash contributions. The Company records non-cash contributions based on the fair value of the assets contributed, or the fair value of the ownership interest received, whichever is more readily determinable. The Company applies the cost method of accounting for investments in the common stock of unconsolidated entities when the Company does not have the ability to exercise significant influence. For investments in preferred stock, the Company applies the cost method of accounting if it concludes that the preferred stock is not in-substance common stock. The Company uses the equity method of accounting for investments in companies in which it has a 50% or less ownership interest and has the ability to exercise significant influence. Prior to recording its share of net income or losses from equity method investees, investee financial statements are converted to U.S. GAAP. The fair value of cost method investments is not estimated if there are no indicators of impairment. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company determined that certain of its cost and equity method investments were impaired and that the carrying values would not be fully recoverable, primarily due to the Company's concerns related to each of the investee's financial condition. The Company determined that the fair value of each investment was zero . As a result, for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges totaling $6.4 million and $17.1 million , respectively, related to certain of its cost method investments. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an impairment charge in the amount of $5.1 million related to one of its equity method investments. Fair value related to both cost and equity method investments is estimated using significant unobservable inputs. Impairment charges related to cost and equity method investments are classified as other expense/income (net) on the Company's statements of operations. Business Acquisitions The Company accounts for business acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting, whereby the purchase price (defined as the total consideration transferred to acquire the business) is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value. The excess of the purchase price over estimated fair value of the net identifiable assets is allocated to goodwill. The determination of estimated fair values requires significant estimates and assumptions including, but not limited to, expected use of the assets acquired, the expected cost to extinguish a liability, future cash flows to be generated from intellectual property and developing appropriate discount rates and market multiples. A change in the estimated fair value of an asset or liability often has a direct impact on the amount to recognize as goodwill, which is an asset that is not amortized. In applying the purchase method of accounting for a business acquisition, management may make adjustments to the fair value allocation, as of the acquisition date, during the measurement period (which is defined as a period of up to one year from the closing date of the acquisition) as a result of additional information obtained subsequent to the initial reporting of the acquisition. Such measurement period adjustments are presented on a retrospective basis for acquisitions that occurred prior to 2015. Adjustments made to the allocation of the purchase price, or adjustments made as a result of changes in estimates or assumptions, could impact the amount of assets, including goodwill, and liabilities, ultimately recorded on the Company's balance sheet and could impact its operating results subsequent to such acquisition. Refer to Note 5 for further information related to the Company's acquisitions. Contingent Consideration From time to time, the Company may enter into arrangements to acquire a business or assets that include a contingent consideration component, such as in the Company's acquisition of ATV. The fair value of contingent consideration is estimated using significant unobservable inputs as of the date of the acquisition and is recorded as part of the purchase price. Refer to Note 5 for further discussion of the contingent consideration related to the acquisition of ATV. Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are stated at the lower of cost or fair value. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is calculated using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives assigned to each major asset category as shown below: Asset Category Estimated Useful Life Buildings 40 years Building improvements 10 years Furniture and equipment 5-10 years Computer hardware, software and equipment 2-5 years Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset, not to exceed the remaining term of the lease. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Non-Controlling Interests A non-controlling interest represents the other equity holder's interest in an entity that the Company consolidates. Non-controlling interests are classified as a separate component of equity in the Company's consolidated balance sheets and statements of equity. Net income and comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests are reflected separately from consolidated net income and comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of operations and statements of equity. Any change in ownership of a subsidiary while the controlling financial interest is retained is accounted for as an equity transaction between the controlling and non-controlling interests. Each of the Company and a third-party, J Ward Production ("JWP"), owns a 50% equity interest in a joint venture operated by Bullwinkle Studios, LLC ("Bullwinkle Studios"). The Company is consolidating the results of this joint venture because the Company retains control over the operations of Bullwinkle Studios. Additionally, on December 11, 2014, Hearst acquired a 25% equity interest in the ATV Joint Venture (as described in Note 1). As the Company continued to retain control over ATV, the transaction (including the tax effect) was recorded within equity. In February 2015, the Company and a third-party entered into agreements forming a new entity to commercialize aspects of the Company's proprietary technology. The new entity is majority-owned and controlled by the Company and, accordingly, is consolidated by the Company. The Company's consolidated financial statements include a cash contribution from the original non-controlling interest holder in the amount of $15.0 million made at the time of formation of the new entity. Additionally, during the three months ended December 31, 2015, a second non-controlling interest holder made a cash contribution of $25.0 million , which was accounted for as an equity transaction. As a result of this transaction, the Company's equity interest in this venture was reduced from 80% to 64% . Gross versus Net Revenue Certain of the Company's feature films, television specials and other properties are primarily distributed and marketed by third party distributors. The Company evaluates its arrangements with third parties to determine whether revenue should be reported under each individual arrangement on a gross or net basis by determining whether the Company acts as the principal or agent under the terms of each arrangement. To the extent that the Company acts as the principal in an arrangement, revenues are reported on a gross basis, resulting in revenues and expenses being classified in their respective financial statement line items. Conversely, to the extent that the Company acts as the agent in an arrangement, revenues are reported on a net basis, resulting in revenues being presented net of any related expenses. Determining whether the Company acts as principal or agent is based on an evaluation of which party has substantial risks and rewards of ownership under the terms of an arrangement. The most significant factors that the Company considers include identification of the primary obligor, as well as which party has general and physical inventory risk, credit risk and discretion in the supplier selection. The Company's primary distribution arrangements, which are those for its theatrical releases, are recorded on a net basis as a result of the evaluation previously described. Revenues and costs related to the Company's non-feature film content are typically recorded on a gross basis. Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue from the distribution of its animated feature films when earned and reported to it by its distributors. Pursuant to the Company's distribution arrangements with Fox, Paramount and ODW, the Company recognizes revenues derived from its feature films net of reserves for returns, rebates and other incentives after the particular distributor has retained its respective distribution fees (without deduction for any distribution and marketing costs or third-party distribution and fulfillment services fees) and recovered all of its permissible distribution and marketing costs with respect to the Company's films on a title-by-title basis. Fox retains a fee of 8.0% of all theatrical gross receipts and home video gross receipts, except in connection with certain pay television and video-on-demand rights and other digital distribution rights, for which the fee is 6.0% . Paramount retains a distribution fee of 8.0% of revenues across all markets. ODW retains a fee of 8.0% of all gross receipts for the markets in which it distributes. For further discussion of the Company's primary distribution arrangements, refer to Note 4. Additionally, because third parties are the principal distributors of the Company's films, the amount of revenue that is recognized from films in any given period is dependent on the timing, accuracy and sufficiency of the information received from its distributors. As is typical in the film industry, the Company's distributors may make adjustments in future periods to information previously provided to the Company that could have a material impact on the Company's operating results in later periods. Furthermore, management may, in its judgment, make material adjustments to the information reported by its distributors in future periods to ensure that revenues are accurately reflected in the Company's financial statements. To date, the distributors have not made, nor has the Company made, subsequent material adjustments to information provided by the distributors and used in the preparation of the Company's historical financial statements. Revenue from the theatrical exhibition of films is recognized at the later of when a film is exhibited in theaters or when revenue is reported by the Company's distributors. Revenue from both free and pay television licensing agreements for the Company's films is recognized at the later of the time the production is made available for exhibition in those markets or it is reported by its distributors. The Company has also entered into licensing arrangements directly with third parties to digitally distribute its feature film and television series/specials content. Such revenues are recorded on a gross basis as they are not typically subject to the distribution arrangements with the Company's primary distributors and, accordingly, the Company receives payment and records revenues directly from third parties. Revenues generated under these licensing arrangements is recognized at the later of the time when the content has been delivered to and accepted by the licensee or the commencement of the license term. Revenue from the sale of feature film home video units is recognized at the later of when product is made available for retail sale and when sales to customers are reported by third parties, such as fulfillment service providers or distributors. Revenue from the sale of home video units for other content (such as television series/specials) is recorded on a gross basis (because the Company is considered the principal in the transactions) and is recognized when the criteria for revenue recognition have been met. Certain of the Company's home video distribution arrangements for its non-feature film content include non-refundable, but recoupable, minimum guarantees. Minimum guarantees that are not fully recouped are recognized as revenue once the minimum guarantee period has expired and the Company is able to determine the amount of remaining revenues to be recognized. The criteria the Company evaluates to determine whether it is able to recognize revenue include persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed and determinable, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, risk of inventory loss has transferred and collectibility is reasonably assured. In addition, the Company and its distributors provide for future returns of home video product and for customer programs and sales incentives. The Company and its distributors calculates these estimates by analyzing a combination of historical returns, current economic trends, projections of consumer demand for the Company's product and point-of-sale data available from certain retailers. Based on this information, a percentage of each sale is reserved. Customers are typically given varying rights of return, which may include 100% return rights. Although the Company and its distributors allow various rights of return for customers, management does not believe that these rights are critical in establishing return estimates, because other factors, such as historical experience with similar types of sales, information received from retailers and management's assessment of the product's appeal based on domestic box office success and other research, are more important to the estimation process. Revenue from merchandising and other licensing arrangements is recognized when the associated feature film or television series/special has been released and the criteria for revenue recognition have been met. The criteria that the Company uses to evaluate whether it is able to recognize revenue include the following: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed and determinable, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered (including whether the license term has commenced) and collectibility is reasonably assured. Licensing and merchandising related minimum guarantees are generally recognized as revenue upon the theatrical release of a film and royalty-based revenues (revenues based upon a percentage of net sales of the products) are generally recognized as revenue in periods when royalties are reported by licensees or cash is received. Certain of the Company's arrangements may qualify as multiple deliverable arrangements if the licensee is granted the right to exploit more than one of the Company's titles or properties. The license period for each property under a multiple deliverable arrangement may vary by title or property. Revenue associated with multiple deliverable arrangements is allocated to each title or property based on relative selling price. In determining the relative selling price of each title or property, the Company considers a variety of factors including (but not limited to) the period of time a title or property has already been exploited in the marketplace, whether the title is a sequel, the duration of the license period being granted, the territories for which the license is being granted, similar arrangements and type of content or property being licensed. Revenue for each title or property will be recognized when it is available to the licensee for exploitation. As a result of one of the Company's agreements with Netflix, it is currently developing and producing original episodic content in order to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. In cases where a television series is based on characters from one of the Company's feature films, a portion of the third-party revenues generated by the new series is allocated to the feature film title from which the series originated. This revenue allocation represents a license fee charged to the television series for use of intellectual property derived from the related feature film. Long-term, non-interest-bearing receivables arising from licensing agreements are discounted to present value. Accordingly, revenues are recorded net of such discount. Interest income is recognized from the imputation of interest in accordance with the effective interest rate method and classified as "Interest income, net" in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Costs of Revenues Film and Other Inventory Costs. The production costs of the Company's animated feature films, television series/specials and other content are stated at the lower of cost less accumulated amortization, or fair value. Production overhead, a component of film costs, includes allocable costs of individuals or departments with exclusive or significant responsibility for the production of films or television products. A significant portion of the Company's resources are dedicated to the production of its film and television product. Capitalized production overhead does not include selling and marketing and general and administrative expenses. Interest expense, if any, is capitalized into film costs while the film is in the "in production" phase. In addition to the films and television series/specials being produced, costs of productions in development are capitalized as development film costs and are transferred to film production costs when a film or television series/special is set for production. In the event a film or television series/specials is not set for production within three years from the time the first costs are capitalized or the film or television series/specials is abandoned, all such costs are generally expensed. Film and Other Inventory Costs Amortization. Once a feature film, television series/special or other content is released, capitalized production costs are amortized and participations and residual costs are accrued on an individual title basis in the proportion that the revenue during the period for each title ("Current Revenue") bears to the estimated remaining total revenue to be recognized from all sources for each title ("Ultimate Revenue"). The amount of film and other inventory costs that is amortized each period will depend on the ratio of Current Revenue to Ultimate Revenue for each film, television series/special or other content for such period. The Company makes certain estimates and judgments of Ultimate Revenue to be recognized for each title based on information received from its distributor or its operating partners, as well as its knowledge of the industry and historical experience. Ultimate Revenue does not include estimates of revenue that will be earned more than 10 years from a film's initial theatrical release date. Ultimate Revenue for television series/specials does not include estimates of revenue that will be earned more than 10 years from the date of delivery of the first episode. Estimates of Ultimate Revenue and anticipated participation and residual costs are reviewed periodically in the ordinary course of business and are revised if necessary. A change in any given period to the Ultimate Revenue for an individual title will result in an increase or decrease to the percentage of amortization of capitalized film and other inventory costs and accrued participation and residual costs relative to a previous period. Depending on the performance of a title, significant changes to future Ultimate Revenue may occur, which could result in significant changes to the amortization of the capitalized production costs. Unamortized film, television series/specials and other production costs are evaluated for impairment each reporting period on a title-by-title basis to determine whether there are indicators of impairment. If there are indicators of impairment, the Company will determine the fair value of the unamortized costs for the title and the excess of the carrying value above the fair value is written off and the amount is classified as costs of revenues in the consolidated statements of operations and as amortization and write-off of film and other inventory costs in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company estimates the fair value of its film and other inventory costs by calculating the net present value of the estimated remaining net cash flows to be generated for the title being evaluated. The Company bases these fair value measurements on unobservable inputs derived from the Company's assumptions about how market participants would price the asset. Due to the nature of these assets, market data for similar assets is not available. Key assumptions used in such fair value measurements include: (1) the discount rate applied to future cash flow streams, which is based on a risk-free rate plus a risk premium representing the risk associated with the type of property being exploited, (2) the performance in markets not yet released and (3) the number of years over which the Company estimates future net cash flows. The Company considers the sensitivity of these inputs in assessing its assumptions. See Note 6 for further information related to the impairment evaluation of film and other inventory costs. Additionally, on occasion, the Company may change the creative direction of, or abandon, one or more of the Company's films or other projects after being placed into production. As a result, amounts previously capitalized as production costs may be expensed. Other. Costs of revenues also include manufacturing costs related to physical inventory product sales and amortization of certain intangible assets that directly correlate with revenues generated (this primarily consists of character rights). Selling and Marketing Expense Selling and marketing expenses primarily consist of advertising and marketing costs, promotion costs, distribution fees and sales commissions to outside third parties. Generally, given the structure of the Company's feature film distribution arrangements (see Note 4), the Company does not incur distribution, marketing, prints and advertising costs or third-party distribution and fulfillment services fees associated with the exploitation of its feature films. Distribution and marketing costs associated with the exploitation of the Company's feature films would be included in selling and marketing expenses to the extent that the Company caused its distributors to make additional expenditures in excess of mutually agreed amounts. The Company's television series and specials are typically not subject to the same distribution agreements as its feature films, and accordingly, selling and marketing expenses include distribution and marketing costs directly incurred by the Company. Advertising and marketing expenses that are not captured under the distribution and servicing arrangements, which are those primarily associated with the Company's merchandising and promotional activities and television series/specials, are expensed as incurred by the Company. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company incurred advertising and marketing expenses totaling $23.5 million , $31.1 million and $14.9 million , respectively. General and Administrative Expense General and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee compensation (including salaries, bonuses, stock-based compensation and employee benefits), rent, insurance, fees for professional services and restructuring-related charges. Product Development Expense The Company records product development costs, which primarily consist of research and development costs related to its technology initiatives. Product development costs incurred prior to reaching the application development or technological feasibility stage are expensed. Certain software development costs incurred after reaching the application development stage (in the case of internally developed software and softwa

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In September 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to eliminate the requirement that an acquirer in a business combination account for measurement period adjustments retrospectively. Prior to this update, an acquirer was required to record provisional amounts for a business combination if the initial accounting was incomplete as of the end of the reporting period in which the acquisition occurs. The new guidance requires that acquirers recognize measurement period adjustments during the period in which the adjustment is identified, including the effect on earnings of any amounts it would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The guidance also requires an entity to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amounts recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. The guidance is to be applied prospectively and is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted the new guidance upon issuance of the accounting standards update, which did not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update relating to the presentation of debt issuance costs. The accounting update requires companies to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. In addition, in August 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to incorporate an SEC staff announcement that the SEC staff will not object to an entity presenting debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements as an asset regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company plans to adopt the new guidance effective January 1, 2016. The adoption of this guidance is expected to have an immaterial impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to amend existing guidance relating to the evaluation of certain legal entities for potential consolidation. The amendments modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are VIEs or voting interest entities. In addition, the amendments modify the guidance on evaluating whether a fee paid to a decision maker or a service provider represents a variable interest and whether it should be included in the evaluation of the economics criterion in determining which party is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. In accordance with the accounting standards update, companies are required to reevaluate all legal entities that are considered VIEs to determine whether there is a change in the conclusion as to whether the VIE should be consolidated. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company plans to adopt the new guidance effective January 1, 2016. The Company does not expect an impact on its consolidated financial statements as a result of adopting the guidance. In May 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to provide companies with a single model for use in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers. Once it becomes effective, the new guidance will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of goods or services transfers to the customer and in an amount that reflects the consideration that the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services that have transferred. Under current U.S. GAAP, the Company recognizes revenue when the risks and rewards of ownership transfer to the customer. In addition, the new guidance requires improved disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized and the related cash flows. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018, including interim periods within that fiscal year. Early adoption is permitted but no earlier than the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2017. Companies are permitted to either apply the guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented or, alternatively, apply the guidance in the year of adoption with the cumulative effect recognized at the date of initial application (referred to as the modified retrospective approach). The Company does not expect that it will early adopt this standard. The Company is in the process of determining the method of adoption, as well as evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements. However, the Company currently expects that it will adopt the new guidance under the full retrospective approach.

Distribution and Servicing Arra

Distribution and Servicing Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Distribution and Servicing Arrangements [Abstract]
Distribution and Servicing Arrangements	Distribution and Servicing Arrangements The following table summarizes certain of the key terms related to the primary distribution arrangements under which the Company's films are distributed (which is followed by further detail of each of these arrangements): Agreement Provision Paramount Agreements Fox Distribution Agreement Films Covered By Agreement All films released between February 2000 and December 31, 2012 (i) All films released theatrically between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2017 (ii) Previously released films as distribution rights become available (e.g., films released prior to February 2000) Rights Television and related media (e.g., subscription video-on-demand and free video-on-demand) (i) All rights for films released prior to February 2000 and after January 1, 2013 (ii) Theatrical, non-theatrical, home entertainment and digital transactional rights for other feature films Territory Worldwide Worldwide, excluding China and South Korea Minimum Film Commitment 13 pictures None Retained Rights All rights not expressly granted, including derivative productions, theme park, merchandising, music and commercial tie-ins and promotions (i) domestic television, SVOD and certain other digital rights (other than TVOD/EST/DTO) (ii) certain international television and SVOD rights subject to pre-existing agreements (iii) derivative productions, theme park, merchandise, music and commercial tie-ins and promotions (iv) nonexclusive rights to sell directly to consumers through "digital storefronts" Distribution Fee 8% of revenues 8% of revenues, except 6% of: (i) domestic pay television (if licensed to Fox) (ii) new international pay television agreements (i.e., those entered into after the date of the Fox Distribution Agreement, but excluding approved extensions of prior output agreements) (iii) worldwide VOD and other digital distribution (excluding TVOD where packaged with physical) Period of Distribution Rights ("Tail") Distribution rights for each picture continue for 16 years after its initial domestic theatrical release Distribution rights for all pictures continue until one year after initial home video release of the last theatrical release during the output term, subject to television licenses approved by the Company that extend after such period Change in Control Provision During certain periods, the Company could have terminated upon a change in control and payment of a specified fee Either party may terminate if either party experiences a "change in control" Twentieth Century Fox. On August 18, 2012, the Company entered into the Fox Distribution Agreement with Fox, pursuant to which the Company agreed to license Fox certain exclusive distribution rights and exclusively engage Fox to render fulfillment services with respect to certain of the Company's animated feature films and other audiovisual programs. The Fox Distribution Agreement sets forth binding terms and conditions for such distribution rights and fulfillment services. Under the Fox Distribution Agreement, the Company has licensed to Fox the exclusive right to distribute, and has engaged Fox to service, in each case on a worldwide (excluding China and South Korea) basis, the following animated feature films and other audiovisual programs: (i) the Company's animated feature films that the Company produces and elects to initially theatrically release during the five -year period beginning on January 1, 2013 (such five -year period, the "Output Term") and with respect to which the Company owns substantially all of the relevant distribution rights (each, a "Qualified Picture"), (ii) motion pictures that would be Qualified Pictures but for the fact that the Company does not own substantially all of the relevant distribution rights, which the Company must offer Fox the right to distribute and service and Fox has the option to distribute and service (each, an "Optional Picture"), (iii) the Company's animated feature films that were theatrically released by the Company prior to January 1, 2013 if and when such films cease being subject to third-party distribution rights at any point during the Output Term (each, an "Existing Picture"), (iv) as determined by the Company in its sole discretion, subject to certain exceptions, audiovisual programs the Company acquired as part of the Classic Media acquisition (each, a "Classic Media Picture") and (v) as determined by the Company in its sole discretion, subject to certain exceptions, other audiovisual programs produced or acquired by the Company that are not Qualified Pictures, Optional Pictures, Classic Media Pictures, Existing Pictures or live-action or hybrid feature-length theatrical motion pictures (each, an "Other Picture"). Each motion picture with respect to which rights are licensed to (and serviced by) Fox under the Fox Distribution Agreement is herein called a "Licensed Picture." The rights licensed to, and serviced by, Fox for all Licensed Pictures will terminate on the same date, which will be the date that is one year after the initial home video release date in the U.S. of the last Licensed Picture theatrically released by Fox during the Output Term, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of the Fox Distribution Agreement, subject to extension in the case of certain television license agreements entered into by Fox prior to or during the Output Term and approved by the Company. The rights licensed to, and serviced by, Fox do not include the following rights that the Company retains and may freely exploit: (i) all rights in China and South Korea, (ii) all forms of television, all forms of video-on-demand (excluding transactional video-on-demand) and other digital rights (other than electronic sell-through/download-to-own) in the U.S. and Canada (provided that Fox will have the first opportunity to exploit such rights if the Company elects to distribute such rights through a third party), (iii) television and subscription video-on-demand rights licensed pursuant to pre-existing deals or deals pending as of the date of the Fox Distribution Agreement in certain international territories, (iv) any other rights necessary for the Company to sell content directly to consumers through digital "storefronts" owned or controlled by the Company (which Fox may exploit on a non-exclusive basis under certain conditions), subject to payment by the Company to Fox of certain amounts with respect to such sales and (v) certain other retained rights, including subsequent production, merchandising, commercial tie-in and promotional rights (which Fox may exploit on a non-exclusive basis under certain conditions) and certain other ancillary rights. The Fox Distribution Agreement provides that Fox will be entitled to a distribution fee or services fee of 8.0% on all theatrical gross receipts and home video gross receipts, except in connection with the following rights for which the fee will be 6.0% : (i) pay television in the U.S. and/or Canada that the Company elects to license to Fox and pay television outside the U.S. and Canada under certain output agreements entered into by Fox (although an 8.0% fee is payable with respect to certain existing Fox output arrangements) and (ii) all forms of video-on-demand (other than attendant subscription video-on-demand included in existing pay television output agreements) and other digital distribution. The Fox Distribution Agreement provides that the Company will be solely responsible for all of the costs of developing and producing its animated feature films, including contingent compensation and residual costs. Fox will be responsible for advancing all expenses related to the exhibition, exploitation, use and distribution of each Licensed Picture and all expenses related to home video distribution and fulfillment services. Fox will be entitled to recoup all such distribution expenses and home video fulfillment expenses, and in each case will be financially responsible for such expenses in a manner to preserve the Company's existing net accounting treatment with respect to revenue recognition. Fox will also be granted a contractual television participation right with respect to each of the Qualified Pictures, which will be calculated and paid only if the ultimates statement prepared by the Company for a given Qualified Picture indicates that Fox will not fully recoup the relevant distribution expenses and home video fulfillment expenses from the projected theatrical gross receipts and home video gross receipts for such Qualified Picture. Fox will pay the Company in a manner generally consistent with the Company's past practice. Fox has also agreed to provide the Company with additional services and pay the Company an annual cost reimbursement amount during the term of the Fox Distribution Agreement. Fox is obligated to release, distribute and service the Licensed Pictures in all media, territories and formats designated by the Company (unless Fox rejects an offered Classic Media Picture or Other Picture because it is not economically viable for it to distribute, in which case the Company itself can distribute the picture or have any third party distribute such Classic Media Picture or Other Picture). Fox is also obligated to expend a minimum amount in connection with the distribution and servicing of the Qualified Pictures generally consistent with past practice. The Company has all approvals and controls over the exploitation of the Licensed Pictures as are generally consistent with past practice. The Fox Distribution Agreement is subject to termination by either party in the event that the Company experiences a "DWA Change in Control." For purposes of the Fox Distribution Agreement, "DWA Change in Control" is defined as (i) the acquisition of beneficial ownership of more than 35% of the Company's outstanding equity securities by a media company in the audiovisual content distribution business (a "Media Company"), (ii) the sale or other transfer of all, or substantially all, of the Company's property, business or assets or of its motion picture division to a Media Company and (iii) any merger, consolidation, share exchange or other similar transaction between the Company and a Media Company, the result of which is that the applicable Media Company owns at least 35% of the voting power of the outstanding voting securities of the resulting combined entity. In order to terminate the Fox Distribution Agreement, either party must deliver written notice to the other party within 90 days of such DWA Change in Control, which notice must specify a termination date no earlier than one year following the date of such notice. Paramount . Pursuant to the Paramount Agreements, the Company initially granted Paramount and its affiliates the right to distribute its feature films in theatrical, home entertainment and television markets on a worldwide basis. The Company's feature film Rise of the Guardians , which was released in November 2012, was the last film released in theaters pursuant to the Paramount Agreements. The Company has since reacquired rights to these films from Paramount, other than television and related media, and licensed these rights to Fox, as described above. The Company's films distributed by Paramount by means of television and related media will generally be subject to the terms of any sub-distribution, servicing and licensing agreements entered into by Paramount that the Company has pre-approved. Paramount has the right to continue to exploit the films it was licensed by means of television and related media for 16 years from the film's initial general theatrical release. The rights to the Company's first two theatrical releases have reverted back to the Company and have been licensed to Fox. The rights to other pictures will continue to revert back as each picture's 16-year term expires, and such rights will be licensed to Fox if such rights revert during Fox's Output Term. The Paramount Agreements provide that DreamWorks Animation is responsible for all of the costs of developing and producing its films, including participation and residual costs, and Paramount is generally responsible for all out-of-pocket costs, charges and expenses incurred in the distribution (including prints and the manufacture of home video units), advertising, marketing, publicizing and promotion of each film. The Paramount Agreements also provide that Paramount is entitled to (i) retain a fee of 8.0% of revenue (without deduction of any distribution or marketing costs, and third-party distribution and fulfillment services fees) and (ii) recoup all of its permissible distribution and marketing costs and home video fulfillment costs with respect to the Company's films on a title-by-title basis prior to the Company receiving any proceeds. If a film does not generate revenue in all media, net of the 8.0% fee, sufficient for Paramount to recoup its expenses under the Paramount Agreements, Paramount will not be entitled to recoup those costs from proceeds of the Company's other films and the Company will not be required to repay Paramount for such unrecouped amounts. Other . Also beginning in 2013, the Company's films are distributed in China and South Korea territories by separate distributors in each of these territories. The key terms of the Company's distribution arrangements with its Chinese and South Korean distributors are largely similar to those with Fox and Paramount such that the Company also recognizes revenues earned under these arrangements on a net basis. The Company's distribution partner in China is a subsidiary of ODW, which is a related party (See Note 9).

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions 2014 Acquisitions The Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the "Big Frame Merger Agreement”) pursuant to which, on April 7, 2014 (the "Big Frame Closing Date"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company merged with and into Big Frame, Inc. ("Big Frame"). As a result of this transaction, Big Frame became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. Big Frame is an online multi-channel network. The goodwill that resulted from the acquisition represents the potential synergies between Big Frame and the Company's multi-channel network presence on the Internet and is not deductible for tax purposes. On May 20, 2014, the Company acquired certain rights, properties and other items pertaining to Felix the Cat and related characters pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination due to the Company assuming certain licensing arrangements related to the rights. The goodwill that resulted from the acquisition represents potential synergies between the rights acquired and consumer product opportunities. The goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company identified measurement period adjustments to previous purchase accounting estimates for the acquisitions of Big Frame and Felix the Cat, which were primarily related to the finalization of net working capital adjustments. These adjustments were immaterial and were applied retrospectively to the acquisition date. Accordingly, the Company's consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 has been adjusted to reflect the effects of the measurement period adjustments. As a result of the final purchase price allocations, the Company's total cash consideration for these two transactions totaled approximately $34.8 million and the primary assets acquired were identifiable intangible assets of $22.3 million and resulting goodwill of $11.4 million . The results of operations for these two acquisitions have been included in the Company's consolidated financial statements since their respective closing dates and had an immaterial impact for the year ended December 31, 2014. AwesomenessTV On May 1, 2013, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") pursuant to which, on May 3, 2013 (the "ATV Closing Date"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company ("the Merger Sub") merged with and into AwesomenessTV, Inc. As a result of this transaction, ATV became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company's total consideration for this transaction, as of the date of acquisition, totaled $128.5 million , including an accrual for estimated contingent consideration of $95.0 million . The following table outlines the components of consideration for the transaction (in thousands): As of May 3, 2013 Cash payment $ 33,460 Estimated contingent consideration 95,000 Total consideration $ 128,460 The following table summarizes the final allocation of the purchase price (in thousands): As of May 3, 2013 (1) Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,340 Trade receivables (2) 1,279 Prepaid and other assets 434 Productions costs 612 Property, plant and equipment 183 Intangible assets 12,900 Total identified assets acquired 16,748 Accounts payable 655 Deferred revenue 2,057 Deferred tax liabilities, net 3,765 Total liabilities assumed 6,477 Net identified assets acquired 10,271 Goodwill (3) 118,189 Total consideration $ 128,460 ____________________ (1) Measurement period adjustments include a $0.9 million decrease in goodwill, which resulted from changes in the fair value of the estimated contingent consideration of $0.5 million , as well as a decrease to deferred tax liabilities of $0.4 million . (2) Gross contractual amounts due total $1.3 million and, of this amount, no amounts are deemed to be uncollectible. (3) The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of ATV is not deductible for tax purposes. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company incurred approximately $0.5 million of transaction costs for financial advisory, legal, accounting, tax and consulting services as part of the transaction. The transaction costs are included in general and administrative expenses on the Company's consolidated statements of operations and were recognized separately from the purchase price of the ATV transaction. The Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013 included revenues of $11.4 million and net loss of $2.0 million attributable to ATV's operations following the ATV Closing Date. Contingent Consideration Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the Company was originally required to make future cash payments to ATV's former stockholders as part of the total purchase price to acquire ATV. The contingent consideration was to be based on whether ATV increased its adjusted earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") over an adjusted EBITDA threshold, over a two -year period (which commenced on January 1, 2014). Adjustments to EBITDA for purposes of determining the contingent consideration earned included, but were not limited to: ATV's employee bonus plan, non-cash gains and losses (such as those related to foreign currency accounting and reversals of prior year accruals) and changes in the fair value of contingent payment liabilities resulting from the acquisition of ATV. The Company estimated the fair value of contingent consideration using a Monte-Carlo simulation model and based the fair value on the estimated risk-adjusted cost of capital of ATV's adjusted EBITDA following integration into the Company (an income approach). The estimate of the liability fluctuated if there were changes in the forecast of ATV's future earnings or as a result of actual earnings levels achieved. Any changes in estimate of the contingent consideration liability are reflected in the Company's results of operations in the period that the change occurred. The estimated fair value of the contingent consideration arrangement at the acquisition date was $95.0 million . The key assumptions in applying the income approach were as follows: an 8.5% discount rate, volatility of 32.6% and a probability-adjusted earnings measure for ATV of $25.0 million for 2014, and $41.0 million for 2015. Changes in one or more of the key assumptions could lead to a different fair value estimate of the contingent consideration. For example, using a discount rate of 15.0% or a volatility rate of 20.0% would change the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration to $90.5 million and $103.5 million , respectively. Under the original Merger Agreement, the maximum contingent consideration that could be earned was $117.0 million . The estimate of contingent consideration liability increased to $96.5 million as of December 31, 2013 in comparison to the amount recorded as of the ATV Closing Date primarily due to the passage of time, timing of cash flows and changes in the Company's credit risk adjusted rate used to discount obligations to present value. The estimate of the contingent consideration liability decreased to $86.8 million as of September 30, 2014. The decrease was primarily due to the inclusion of a probability-weighted factor in the Company's determination of the fair value of the contingent consideration liability as of September 30, 2014 as a large portion of the forecasted adjusted EBITDA was expected to occur in November and December 2014 in connection with certain potential licensing and distribution agreements. The change in estimate was recorded as a gain in the consolidated statements of operations. On December 11, 2014, the Company and the former ATV stockholders entered into an amendment to the Merger Agreement. The amendment provided for a fixed payment totaling $80.0 million (the majority of which was paid in December 2014) to such stockholders in lieu of the contingent consideration specified in the original Merger Agreement. As a result, the Company's contingent liability was reduced to zero and a gain in the amount of $6.8 million and $16.5 million for the three- and 12-month periods ended December 31, 2014, respectively, was recorded in the consolidated statements of operations as a change in fair value of contingent consideration.

Film and Other Inventory Costs

Film and Other Inventory Costs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Film Costs [Abstract]
Film and Other Inventory Costs	Film and Other Inventory Costs Film, television and other inventory costs consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 In release, net of amortization: Feature films $ 227,372 $ 392,186 Television series and specials 124,911 67,803 In production: Feature films 308,114 206,240 Television series and specials 50,810 62,426 In development: Feature films 99,541 88,200 Television series and specials 846 1,118 Product inventory and other (1) 8,860 9,917 Total film, television and other inventory costs, net $ 820,454 $ 827,890 ____________________ (1) As of each of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , this category included $6.7 million of physical inventory of certain DreamWorks Animation and Classic Media titles for distribution primarily in the home entertainment market. The Company anticipates that approximately 43% and 79% of the above "in release" film and other inventory costs as of December 31, 2015 will be amortized over the next 12 months and three years, respectively. The Company evaluates its film and other inventory costs to determine whether the unamortized capitalized costs of any titles have a fair value that is less than its carrying value. Refer to Note 2 for a description of the Company's accounting policy related to evaluating film and other inventory costs for impairment. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company performed fair value analysis to determine whether the unamortized film inventory costs for certain of its titles were impaired as a result of the lower-than-expected performance of the titles. Key assumptions used in the fair value measurements were discount rates ranging from 7% to 11% and estimated remaining cash flows over a period of approximately 10 to 15 years . Impairment charges recorded on film and other inventory costs were immaterial for the year ended December 31, 2015. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded impairment charges totaling $99.1 million (primarily related to The Penguins of Madagascar and Mr. Peabody and Sherman ) and $20.2 million (of which $13.5 million related to Turbo ), respectively, resulting in remaining carrying values totaling $217.2 million and $102.3 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. A change in the discount rate of 1.0% would change the fair value measurements by $3.4 million and $1.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. In addition, in connection with the Company's restructuring initiatives (as described in Note 24), the Company made various decisions related to its creative strategy, its future feature film slate and the direction it would take with respect to its unreleased projects. As a result, during the three months ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a write-off of capitalized costs of projects "in production" totaling $97.0 million and a write-off of capitalized costs of projects "in development" totaling $58.5 million . Film and other inventory impairment and other write-off charges are recorded as costs of revenues in the Company's statements of operations.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands): Gross Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Net As of December 31, 2015: Leasehold improvements (1) $ 8,660 $ (2,830 ) $ 5,830 Furniture and equipment 21,258 (13,780 ) 7,478 Computer hardware and software 108,236 (91,145 ) 17,091 Construction in progress 7,366 — 7,366 Total property, plant and equipment $ 145,520 $ (107,755 ) $ 37,765 As of December 31, 2014: Land, buildings and improvements $ 221,660 $ (81,201 ) $ 140,459 Furniture and equipment 24,336 (13,880 ) 10,456 Computer hardware and software 99,010 (80,342 ) 18,668 Construction in progress 11,024 — 11,024 Total property, plant and equipment $ 356,030 $ (175,423 ) $ 180,607 ____________________ (1) As of December 31, 2015, the Company no longer owned any buildings or building improvements as a result of a sales leaseback transaction (see Note 12 for further information). For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company recorded depreciation and amortization expense (other than film amortization) of $43.0 million , $29.1 million and $29.8 million , respectively, of which $13.8 million , $24.0 million and $25.5 million , respectively, was capitalized as film production costs.

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , intangible assets included $69.4 million of indefinite-lived intangible assets comprised of character rights. In addition, intangible assets included definite-lived intangible assets as follows (in thousands, unless otherwise noted): Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Impact of Foreign Currency Translation Net As of December 31, 2015: Character rights 13.9 $ 99,000 $ (21,150 ) $ (2,734 ) $ 75,116 Distribution rights 11.2 30,000 (4,671 ) — 25,329 Programming content 2.0 11,200 (11,200 ) — — Trademarks and trade names 10.0 1,410 (356 ) — 1,054 Other intangibles 4.4 2,700 (1,271 ) — 1,429 Total $ 144,310 $ (38,648 ) $ (2,734 ) $ 102,928 As of December 31, 2014: Character rights 13.9 $ 99,000 $ (15,101 ) $ (568 ) $ 83,331 Distribution rights 11.2 30,000 (1,604 ) — 28,396 Programming content 2.0 11,200 (9,333 ) — 1,867 Trademarks and trade names 10.0 1,410 (216 ) — 1,194 Other intangibles 4.4 2,700 (747 ) — 1,953 Total $ 144,310 $ (27,001 ) $ (568 ) $ 116,741 Amortization of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $11.6 million , $14.5 million and $10.5 million , respectively. The Company expects to record amortization over the next five years as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 11,690 2017 13,595 2018 10,362 2019 11,453 2020 12,609 Total $ 59,709

Investments in Unconsolidated E

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities [Abstract]
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities	Investments in Unconsolidated Entities The Company has made investments in entities which are accounted for under either the cost or equity method of accounting. These investments are classified as investments in unconsolidated entities in the consolidated balance sheets and consist of the following (in thousands, unless otherwise indicated): Ownership Percentage at December 31, December 31, 2015 2015 2014 Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited 45.45% $ 16,804 $ 17,422 All Other (1) 19.9%-50.0% 10 6,029 Total equity method investments 16,814 23,451 Total cost method investments (1) 16,000 11,879 Total investments in unconsolidated entities $ 32,814 $ 35,330 ____________________ (1) Refer to Note 2 for information on the impairment of certain equity and cost method investments. Under the equity method of accounting, the carrying value of an investment is adjusted for the Company's proportionate share of the investees' earnings and losses (adjusted for the amortization of any differences in the Company's basis, with respect to the Company's investment in ODW, compared to the Company's share of venture-level equity), as well as contributions to and distributions from the investee. The Company classifies its share of income or loss from investments accounted for under the equity method as income/loss from equity method investees in its consolidated statements of operations. Loss from equity method investees consist of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited (1) $ 14,527 $ 11,127 $ 5,352 All Other 964 2,681 1,539 Loss from equity method investees $ 15,491 $ 13,808 $ 6,891 ____________________ (1) The Company currently records its share of ODW results on a one-month lag. Accordingly, the Company's consolidated financial statements include its share of losses incurred by ODW from the period beginning and ending one month prior to the period shown in the table. The following table presents summarized financial information for ODW (1) (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Current assets $ 49,427 $ 58,195 Noncurrent assets $ 73,340 $ 81,178 Current liabilities $ 28,114 $ 37,084 Noncurrent liabilities $ 233 $ 319 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues $ 20,554 $ 29,921 $ 21,913 Costs of revenues $ 13,848 $ 27,528 $ 20,944 Net loss $ 34,431 $ 27,735 $ 14,232 ____________________ (1) The financial information presented in this table does not present summarized financial information for the Company's other equity method investees as the amounts are de minimus . Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited On April 3, 2013 ("ODW Closing Date"), the Company formed a Chinese Joint Venture, ODW (or the "Chinese Joint Venture"), through the execution of a Transaction and Contribution Agreement, as amended, with its Chinese partners, China Media Capital (Shanghai) Center L.P. ("CMC"), Shanghai Media Group ("SMG") and Shanghai Alliance Investment Co., Ltd. ("SAIL", and together with CMC and SMG, the "CPE Holders"). In exchange for 45.45% of the equity of ODW, the Company has committed to making a total cash capital contribution to ODW of $50.0 million (of which $17.0 million had been funded as of December 31, 2015 , with the balance to be funded over time) and non-cash contributions valued at approximately $100.0 million (of which approximately $44.1 million had been satisfied as of December 31, 2015 ). Such non-cash contributions include licenses of technology and certain other intellectual property of the Company, rights in certain trademarks of the Company, two in-development feature film projects developed by the Company and consulting and training services. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company's consolidated statements of operations included $7.8 million of revenues recognized in connection with non-cash contributions made to ODW. The Company's consolidated statements of operations included other operating income recognized in connection with non-cash contributions made to ODW of $6.3 million , $8.4 million and $8.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company's remaining contributions consisted of the following: (i) $33.0 million in cash (which is expected to be funded over the next two years), (ii) two of the Company's in-development film projects, (iii) remaining delivery requirements under the licenses of technology and certain other intellectual property of the Company and (iv) approximately $6.6 million in consulting and training services. Some of these remaining contribution commitments will require future cash outflows for which the Company is not currently able to estimate the timing of contributions as this will depend on, among other things, ODW's operations. Basis Differences. The Company's investment in ODW does not equal the venture-level equity (the amount recorded on the balance sheet of ODW) due to various basis differences. Basis differences related to definite-lived assets are being amortized based on the useful lives of the related assets. Basis differences related to indefinite-lived assets are not being amortized. The following are the differences between the Company's venture-level equity and the balance of its investment in ODW (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Company's venture-level equity $ 42,914 $ 46,345 Technology and intellectual property licenses (1) (6,833 ) (12,714 ) Other (2) (19,277 ) (16,209 ) Total ODW investment recorded $ 16,804 $ 17,422 ____________________ (1) Represents differences between the Company's historical cost basis and the equity basis reflected at the venture-level (the amount recorded on the balance sheet of ODW) related to the Company's contributions of technology and intellectual property licenses. These basis differences arise because the contributed assets are recorded at fair value by ODW. (2) Represents the Company's net contribution commitment due to ODW. Other Transactions with ODW. The Company has various other transactions with ODW, a related party. The Company has entered into a distribution agreement with ODW for the distribution of the Company's feature films in China (beginning with The Croods ). In addition, from time to time, the Company may provide consulting and training services to ODW, the charges of which are based on the Company's actual cost of providing such services. The Company's consolidated statements of operations included revenues earned primarily through ODW's distribution of its feature films of $6.2 million , $17.4 million and $16.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company's consolidated balance sheets included receivables from ODW of $4.7 million and $7.1 million , respectively, which were classified as a component of trade accounts receivable, and $1.1 million and $19.0 million , respectively, which were classified as a component of receivables from distributors.

Accrued Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Employee compensation $ 85,616 $ 67,084 Participations and residuals 46,562 50,646 Interest payable 8,069 7,951 Deferred rent 10,446 11,049 Other accrued liabilities 48,972 53,487 Total accrued liabilities $ 199,665 $ 190,217 As of December 31, 2015 , the Company estimates that over the next 12 months, it will pay approximately $21.7 million of its accrued participation and residual costs.

Deferred Revenue and Other Adva

Deferred Revenue and Other Advances	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred Revenue and Other Advances	Deferred Revenue and Other Advances The following is a summary of deferred revenue and other advances included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the related amounts earned and recorded either as revenue in the consolidated statements of operations or recorded as an offset to other costs (as described below) for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Amounts Earned Balance at December 31, For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Deferred Revenue (1) $ 25,035 $ 1,074 $ 29,082 $ 13,186 $ 23,350 Strategic Alliance/Development Advances (2) 1,826 1,667 32,319 30,741 31,622 Other (3)(4) 47,798 31,154 72,421 58,339 62,083 Total deferred revenue and other advances $ 74,659 $ 33,895 ____________________ (1) Deferred revenue consists of those arrangements related to the licensing of content for distribution in the home entertainment, television and new media markets. (2) The Company has strategic alliances with various technology companies pursuant to which the companies are permitted to promote themselves as DreamWorks Animation's preferred technology provider in exchange for advancing the Company specified annual amounts. In addition, under the agreements, the Company makes purchases of the technology companies' equipment. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned against the "Strategic Alliance/Development Advances," $15.6 million , $10.0 million and $17.7 million , respectively, were capitalized as an offset to property, plant and equipment. Additionally, during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned, $5.0 million , $4.4 million and $1.6 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to other assets. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , $1.6 million , $6.9 million and $2.6 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to prepaid expenses. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned, $2.1 million , $2.4 million and $1.4 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to operating expenses. (3) "Other" consists of all remaining arrangements that result in deferred revenue or other advances and are related to a variety of activities that result in amounts being earned to either revenues or other income. (4) Of the total amounts earned in "Other," for the year ended December 31, 2014 , $14.0 million was recorded as a reduction to film and other inventory costs as it related to an asset sale.

Financing Arrangements

Financing Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Financing Arrangements	Financing Arrangements Senior Unsecured Notes. On August 14, 2013, the Company issued $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2020 (the "Notes"). In connection with the issuance of the Notes, the Company entered into an indenture (the "Indenture") with The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee, specifying the terms of the Notes. The Notes were sold at a price to investors of 100% of their principal amount and were issued in a private placement pursuant to the exemptions under Rule 144A and Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The net proceeds from the Notes amounted to $294.0 million and a portion was used to repay the outstanding borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facility. The Notes are effectively subordinated to indebtedness under the revolving credit facility. The Company is required to pay interest on the Notes semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15 of each year. The principal amount is due upon maturity. The Notes are guaranteed by all of the Company's domestic subsidiaries that also guarantee its revolving credit facility. The Indenture contains certain restrictions and covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, limit the Company's ability to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends or repurchase the Company's common shares, make certain loans or investments, and sell or otherwise dispose of certain assets, among other limitations. The Indenture also contains customary events of default, which, if triggered, may accelerate payment of principal, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on the Notes. Such events of default include non-payment of principal and interest, non-performance of covenants and obligations, default on other material debt, failure to satisfy material judgments and bankruptcy or insolvency. If a change of control as described in the Indenture occurs, the Company may be required to offer to purchase the Notes from the holders thereof at a repurchase price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the date of repurchase. At any time prior to August 15, 2016, the Company may redeem all or part of the Notes at a redemption price equal to the sum of (i) 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus (ii) a specified premium as of the date of redemption, plus (iii) accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the date of redemption, subject to the rights of holders of Notes on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date. On or after August 15, 2016, the Company may redeem all or a part of the Notes, at specified redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to, but not including, the applicable redemption date, subject to the rights of holders of Notes on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date. In addition, at any time prior to August 15, 2016, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the Notes with the net proceeds of certain equity offerings at a redemption price equal to 106.875% of the principal amount thereof, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, thereon to, but not including, the redemption date. Revolving Credit Facility. Prior to February 20, 2015, the Company had a revolving credit facility with a number of banks which allowed the Company to borrow up to a maximum of $400.0 million ("Prior Credit Agreement"). On February 20, 2015, the Company and the facility banks amended and restated the Prior Credit Agreement by entering into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "Restated Credit Agreement"). The Restated Credit Agreement allows the Company to have outstanding borrowings of up to $450.0 million at any one time, on a revolving basis. The Company and one or more of the lenders may from time to time, so long as no default or event of default has occurred under the Restated Credit Agreement, agree to increase the commitments under the Restated Credit Agreement by up to $50.0 million . As of December 31, 2015, the Company had $390.0 million of availability under its revolving credit facility. Under the Restated Credit Agreement, the Company is required to pay a commitment fee on undrawn amounts at an annual rate of 0.375% . Interest on borrowed amounts (per draw) is determined by reference to either (i) the lending banks' base rate plus 1.50% per annum or (ii) the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 2.50% per annum. The Restated Credit Agreement also contains a sublimit for letters of credit. The Company is required to pay to the lenders under the Restated Credit Agreement a letter of credit participation fee equal to the applicable margin for LIBOR-based borrowings on the average daily undrawn amount of outstanding letters of credit and pay to each issuer of letters of credit a letter of credit fronting fee equal to 0.125% per annum on the average daily undrawn amount of outstanding letters of credit issued by such letter of credit issuer. The Restated Credit Agreement requires the Company to maintain a specified ratio of total debt to total capitalization, and limits the outstanding credit exposure under the Restated Credit Agreement to a specified ratio of net remaining ultimates to the outstanding credit exposure under the Restated Credit Agreement, plus an additional amount based on the valuation of the Company's film library. Subject to specified exceptions, the Restated Credit Agreement also restricts the Company and substantially all of its subsidiaries from taking certain actions, such as granting liens, entering into any merger or other significant transactions, making distributions (including dividends), entering into transactions with affiliates, agreeing to negative pledge clauses and restrictions on subsidiary distributions, and modifying organizational documents. The obligations of the Company under the Restated Credit Agreement are guaranteed by substantially all the subsidiaries of the Company organized under the laws of the United States of America, and substantially all the tangible and intangible assets of the Company and such subsidiaries are pledged as collateral against borrowings under the Restated Credit Agreement. Lease Financing Obligation. On February 23, 2015, the Company, as seller, entered into a purchase agreement (the "Glendale Purchase Agreement") with a third party buyer ("Landlord") involving the Company's headquarters facility located in Glendale, California (the "Property"). The Property is comprised of, among other things, 10 buildings on approximately 14.7 acres of land. Pursuant to the Glendale Purchase Agreement, the Company sold the Property to Landlord for a purchase price of $185.0 million . In addition, the Company entered into a sharing agreement (the "Sharing Agreement") with the Landlord whereby the Company will either pay or receive 50% of the net appreciation or depreciation in the sale price of the Property if the Landlord sells the property to a third-party prior to February 23, 2016. Concurrently with the sale of the Property, the Company and Landlord entered into a lease agreement (the "Lease"), pursuant to which Landlord leased the Property to the Company commencing immediately following the consummation of the sale. Annual rent during the initial term of the Lease starts at approximately $13.2 million , and increases one and one-half percent each year. The initial term of the Lease is 20 years , and the Company has four consecutive renewal options of five years each. The first two of such renewal terms are subject to fixed rent increasing by one and one-half percent each year, and the rent during each of such last two renewal terms will be the greater of (i) the rent in effect immediately preceding such renewal term or (ii) the then-current fair market value rent. The Lease is structured as a "triple net" lease, meaning that the Company is responsible for all expenses arising from the use or operation of the Property, including repairs, maintenance, insurance and taxes. The Lease also contains provisions regarding the obligations of the Company and Landlord in connection with a casualty or condemnation of the Property. Other than a sale by the initial Landlord party to the Lease, if any subsequent landlord decides to sell or otherwise convey title to the Property to a third party during the term of the Lease, the Company shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Property on the same terms offered to such third party. The Company initially accounted for the sale and lease arrangement (as described above) as a financing transaction as it did not qualify for sale-leaseback accounting treatment because of the Company's continuing involvement through the Sharing Agreement. Under the financing accounting method, the Property assets remain on the Company's consolidated balance sheets and proceeds received by the Company are recorded as a financing liability. Payments under the Lease are applied as payments of deemed principal and imputed interest on the underlying financing obligation. On July 21, 2015, the Company's Landlord sold the Property to an unaffiliated third party for a total sale price of $215.0 million . Pursuant to the Sharing Agreement, the Company received approximately $14.2 million from the Landlord following such sale and these additional proceeds were recorded as an increase to the lease financing obligation. Upon receipt of these proceeds, the Company concluded that it no longer had continuing involvement beyond a normal leaseback of the Property. As a result, the Company further concluded that the transaction may be accounted for as a sale and operating leaseback on a prospective basis. Accordingly, the Company's lease financing obligation balance was reduced to zero, its property, plant and equipment balance was reduced by $109.4 million , representing the net book value (as of July 21, 2015) of the assets sold, and the Company recorded a deferred gain on the sales-leaseback transaction in the amount of $88.5 million . The deferred gain will be amortized on a straight-line basis over the remaining initial lease term and recorded as a component of other operating income. Refer to Note 15 for a schedule of future cash payments required under the operating lease. The following table summarizes information associated with the Company's financing arrangements (in thousands, except percentages): Balance Outstanding at Interest Expense December 31, Maturity Date Interest Rate at Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Senior Unsecured Notes $ 300,000 $ 300,000 August 2020 6.875% $ 16,941 $ 12,316 $ 2,433 Revolving Credit Facility $ 60,000 $ 215,000 February 2020 2.82% $ 3,854 $ 2,979 $ 1,423 Lease Financing Obligation (1) $ — $ — N/A N/A $ 3,750 N/A N/A ____________________ N/A: Not applicable (1) As previously described, during the three months ended September 30, 2015, the Company's lease financing obligation was reduced to zero due to the change in classification of the sales-leaseback transaction. Additional Financing Information Interest Capitalized to Film Costs. Interest on borrowed funds that are invested in major projects with substantial development or construction phases is capitalized as part of the asset cost until the projects are released or construction projects are put into service. Thus, capitalized interest is amortized over future periods on a basis consistent with that of the asset to which it relates. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company incurred interest costs totaling $33.0 million , $26.5 million and $13.6 million , respectively, of which $5.4 million , $10.1 million and $9.5 million , respectively, were capitalized to film costs. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company was in compliance with all applicable financial debt covenants.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The following are the domestic and foreign components of the Company's income (loss) before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Domestic $ (66,901 ) $ (80,140 ) $ 73,640 Foreign 17,192 (6,077 ) 1,264 (Loss) income before income taxes $ (49,709 ) $ (86,217 ) $ 74,904 The following are the components of the provision (benefit) for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Current: Federal $ (78 ) $ (479 ) $ 8 State and local 179 (888 ) (2,909 ) Foreign 3,085 2,743 1,704 Total current provision (benefit) 3,186 1,376 (1,197 ) Deferred: Federal 1,536 185,849 27,524 State and local (467 ) 34,879 (7,146 ) Total deferred provision 1,069 220,728 20,378 Total provision for income taxes $ 4,255 $ 222,104 $ 19,181 Set forth below is a reconciliation of the components that caused the Company's provision for income taxes (including the statement of operations line item "Decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder") to differ from amounts computed by applying the U.S. Federal statutory rate of 35% for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . 2015 2014 (2) 2013 (2) Provision for income taxes (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder) (1) : U.S. Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit 6.4 1.7 (2.5 ) Export sales exclusion/manufacturer's deduction 5.8 0.3 (0.2 ) Research and development credit 2.1 0.3 (3.6 ) Federal energy tax credit (3) — — (2.2 ) Executive compensation (5.4 ) (0.9 ) 3.4 Stock-based compensation (3.6 ) (2.3 ) 3.2 Change in valuation allowance (4) (128.0 ) (25.9 ) (0.2 ) Change in certain California unrecognized tax benefits (5) — — (5.4 ) Revaluation of deferred tax assets (6) 1.1 (0.2 ) (2.4 ) Foreign rate differential 19.4 (0.3 ) (0.1 ) Corporate joint ventures 4.3 (0.3 ) — Foreign tax (2.6 ) — — Return-to-provision (2.8 ) (0.1 ) 0.2 Other (0.1 ) 2.0 1.1 Effective tax rate (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder) (1) (68.4 )% 9.3 % 26.3 % Less: change in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder (1) : U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit 0.3 (0.1 ) — Export sales exclusion/manufacturer's deduction (5.8 ) (0.3 ) (0.2 ) Change in valuation allowance (4) 54.1 (74.3 ) — Return-to-provision 2.4 — (0.7 ) Imputed interest 3.1 — (1.3 ) Other 1.0 0.1 1.3 Total change in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder (1) 55.1 % (74.6 )% (0.9 )% Effective tax rate (13.3 )% (65.3 )% 25.4 % ____________________ (1) The Company is obligated to remit to the affiliate of the former stockholder 85% of any realized cash savings in U.S. Federal income tax, California franchise tax and certain other related tax benefits (see Note 2). (2) Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period presentation to conform to current period presentation. (3) The Company's policy for accounting for investment tax credits is to recognize the income tax benefit in the year that the credit is generated. (4) See below for a further discussion of the change in valuation allowance. (5) In October 2013, the Company received correspondence from the California Franchise Tax Board ("FTB") indicating that its California research and development ("R&D") credits for the years under audit would be accepted as originally filed on the Company's income tax returns. As a result, the Company recognized approximately $1.3 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for this period during the three months ended December 31, 2013. Additionally, during the three months ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized approximately $2.8 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for its California R&D credits related to the years 2008 through 2012. (6) The revaluation of deferred tax assets resulted from changes in the Company's state tax rates. The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to a significant portion of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are presented below (in thousands). December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Tax Basis Increase (pursuant to Stockholder's Tax Agreement) $ 148,455 $ 189,933 Stock-based compensation (1) 33,375 33,272 Accrued liabilities 12,573 20,771 Net operating loss carryover 131,791 117,745 Film development basis 90,654 88,850 Research and development credit 30,578 28,252 Deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction 31,637 — Other 35,583 20,961 Deferred tax assets 514,646 499,784 Less: Valuation allowance (386,631 ) (364,244 ) Deferred tax assets (net of valuation allowance) 128,015 135,540 Deferred tax liabilities: Film basis and other intangible assets (net of amortization) (2)(3) (137,858 ) (151,125 ) Other (7,935 ) (1,124 ) Deferred tax liabilities (145,793 ) (152,249 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (17,778 ) $ (16,709 ) ____________________ (1) Includes the portion of film inventory amortization expense attributable to stock-based compensation. (2) Includes capitalizable stock-based compensation. (3) A portion of the deferred tax liability relates to indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company reduces its deferred tax assets by establishing a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not (a likelihood of greater than 50% ) that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As of December 31, 2014, the Company concluded that it was not more likely than not that it will realize substantially all of its U.S. deferred tax assets as a result of its recent cumulative losses, which were primarily caused by the impairments and restructuring-related charges recorded during the quarter ended December 31, 2014. As a result, during the three months ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $338.9 million as a valuation allowance against certain of its U.S. deferred tax assets. This amount was recorded as a provision for income taxes on the Company's consolidated statements of operations. In addition, the Company recorded a corresponding decrease in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder in the amount of $252.6 million , and as a result, the payable to former stockholder as of December 31, 2014 was $10.5 million . If the valuation allowance is released in a subsequent period, it would result in an increase in payable to former stockholder presented on the consolidated balance sheet, which represents the portion of tax benefits that the Company is obligated to remit to an affiliate of the former stockholder if such tax savings are realized. As of December 31, 2015, the Company continues to believe that it is not more likely than not that it will realize substantially all of its deferred tax assets as a result of its recent cumulative losses. Income tax expense attributable to equity-based transactions is allocated to stockholders' equity. Amounts that are not allocated to stockholder's equity are recorded as a component of provision for income taxes. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not record an excess tax benefit or tax shortfall from employee equity awards as a component of stockholder's equity. Federal and state net operating loss carryforwards totaled $292.5 million and $97.0 million , respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and will begin to expire in 2019 and 2016 , respectively. As prescribed by the tax laws, the utilization of certain of these federal and state net operating loss carryforwards may be subject to annual limitations. Federal R&D and energy tax credits totaled $18.7 million as of December 31, 2015 and will begin to expire in 2029 . State R&D tax credits totaled $30.6 million as of December 31, 2015 and do not expire. Federal tax credits for foreign taxes paid totaled $10.7 million as of December 31, 2015 and will begin to expire in 2016 . Foreign net operating loss carryforwards totaled $131.4 million as of December 31, 2015 and do not expire. The Company's federal income tax returns for the tax years ended December 31, 2007 through 2009 and for the years ended December 31, 2012 through 2013 are currently under examination by the Internal Revenue Service, and tax years subsequent to 2013 remain open to audit. The Company's California state tax returns for all years subsequent to 2010 remain open to audit. The Company's India subsidiary's income tax returns are currently under examination for the tax years ended March 31, 2012 through 2014. A tabular reconciliation of the balance of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , is presented below (in thousands): Accrued Income Taxes Payable to Former Stockholder Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 22,053 $ 687 $ 22,740 Increases related to prior year tax positions 717 — 717 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (7,666 ) (7 ) (7,673 ) Decreases related to settlements (2,015 ) — (2,015 ) Increases related to current year positions 1,138 100 1,238 Decreases related to current year positions (312 ) — (312 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 13,915 $ 780 $ 14,695 Increases related to prior year tax positions 351 — 351 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (1,426 ) (19 ) (1,445 ) Decreases related to lapses of statutes of limitations — (423 ) (423 ) Increases related to current year positions 762 — 762 Decreases related to current year positions (193 ) — (193 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 13,409 $ 338 $ 13,747 Increases related to prior year tax positions 99 423 522 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (270 ) — (270 ) Increases related to current year positions 555 — 555 Decreases related to current year positions (100 ) — (100 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 (1) $ 13,693 $ 761 $ 14,454 ____________________ (1) The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015 that, if realized, would affect the Company's effective tax rate is $13.9 million . Any changes to unrecognized tax benefits recorded as of December 31, 2015 that are reasonably possible to occur within the next 12 months are not expected to be material. As of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company had accrued interest and penalties (including amounts recorded as a component of the payable to former stockholder) related to unrecognized tax benefits of $0.8 million , $0.7 million and $1.3 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company's payable to former stockholder included accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits of $0.4 million , $0.2 million and $0.3 million , respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company did not incur any interest and penalties expense.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions Arrangement with Affiliate of a Former Stockholder The Company has an arrangement with an affiliate of a former stockholder to share tax benefits generated by the stockholder. Refer to Notes 2 and 13 for further details. Transactions with ODW During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company had various transactions with a related party, ODW. See Note 9 for further discussion related to these transactions. Transactions with Universal Music Group One of the Company's directors, Lucian Grainge, is the chief executive officer of Universal Music Group ("UMG"). From time to time, the Company and UMG (including its subsidiaries) make payments to each other in connection with the licensing of music that is owned by the other company. In addition, UMG serves as the Company's music publisher. Finally, UMG and ATV (which the Company acquired in May 2013) have formed joint ventures related to the music business. As it relates to these arrangements, for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , revenues recognized and expenses incurred were not material. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Company's deferred revenue and other advances (see Note 11) included a cash advance received in the amount of $4.3 million and $5.0 million , respectively, related to music licensing revenues. Transactions with Vessel One of the Company's directors, Jason Kilar, is the chief executive officer and a significant stockholder in Vessel, a start-up subscription Internet video service company. Vessel has entered into (and is expected to continue to enter into) content and referral agreements with clients of ATV. The agreements in effect provide for certain minimum payments to ATV clients, with additional payments depending on applicable advertising and subscription revenues. Although ATV is not a party to these agreements, it will receive a percentage of the amounts paid to its clients under the terms of its arrangements with its individual clients. During the year ended December 31, 2015 , amounts received under these arrangements were immaterial.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Lease Commitments The Company has entered into various non-cancelable operating leases for office space for general and administrative and production purposes with terms that expire in 2016 through 2035. Certain of these office leases contain annual rent escalations and require the Company to pay property taxes, insurance and normal maintenance. For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company incurred lease expense (including amounts capitalized to film inventory) of approximately $15.3 million , $11.6 million and $8.1 million , respectively. Future minimum payments and receipts due under non-cancelable operating leases consisted of the following as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Operating Lease Commitments Sublease Rental Income 2016 $ 28,844 $ 3,939 2017 27,733 4,649 2018 25,557 4,894 2019 22,717 4,843 2020 and thereafter 257,779 10,712 Total $ 362,630 $ 29,037 During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company entered into sublease arrangements with respect to office space at its Northern California facility. Under these sublease arrangements, the Company will receive payments for rent, as well as reimbursement of common area maintenance expenses. In addition, the subleasees are entitled to free rent periods. Legal Proceedings Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit. In August 2014, two putative shareholder class action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws were filed against the Company and several of its officers and directors in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. These lawsuits have been consolidated and generally assert that, between October 29, 2013 and July 29, 2014, the Company and certain of its officers and directors made alleged material misstatements and omissions regarding the financial performance of Turbo . The consolidated lawsuit seeks to recover damages on behalf of shareholders as well as other equitable and unspecified monetary relief. On April 1, 2015, the court granted the Company's motion to dismiss the consolidated securities class action lawsuit and the case was dismissed with prejudice on May 19, 2015. The plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal on June 18, 2015, and the matter currently is pending before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The Company intends to vigorously defend against this consolidated lawsuit. At this time the Company is unable to reasonably predict the ultimate outcome of this consolidated lawsuit, nor can it reasonably estimate a range of possible loss. Antitrust Class Action. In September and October 2014, three putative class action lawsuits alleging violations of federal and state antitrust laws were filed against the Company and various other companies in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. These lawsuits have been consolidated and generally assert that the defendants agreed to restrict competition through non-solicitation agreements and agreements to fix wage and salary ranges. The lawsuits seek to recover damages on behalf of all animation and visual effect workers employed by the defendants during various periods between 2001 and 2010. The Company intends to vigorously defend against these lawsuits. At this time the Company is unable to reasonably predict the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits, nor can it reasonably estimate a range of possible loss. Other Legal Matters. From time to time, the Company is involved in legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of its business, typically intellectual property litigation and infringement claims related to the Company's feature films and other commercial activities, which could cause the Company to incur significant expenses or prevent the Company from releasing a film or other properties. The Company also has been the subject of patent and copyright claims relating to technology and ideas that it may use or feature in connection with the production, marketing or exploitation of the Company's feature films and other properties, which may affect the Company's ability to continue to do so. Furthermore, from time to time the Company may introduce new products or services, including in areas where it currently does not operate, which could increase its exposure to litigation and claims by competitors, consumers or other intellectual property owners. Defending intellectual property litigation is costly and can impose a significant burden on management and employees, and there can be no assurances that favorable final outcomes will be obtained in all cases. While the resolution of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe, based on current knowledge, that any existing legal proceedings or claims (other than those previously described) are likely to have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Other Commitments and Contingencies Talent Commitments. As of December 31, 2015 , the Company had non-cancelable talent commitments totaling approximately $28.6 million that are payable over the next five years. Contributions to ODW . The Company has committed to making certain contributions in connection with the formation of ODW. Refer to Note 9 for further discussion related to these commitments. Purchase Obligations. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company entered into an agreement with one of its suppliers which committed the Company to minimum purchase obligations of certain capital assets intended to be resold in connection with one of the Company's Consumer Products segment activities. As of December 31, 2015, remaining minimum purchase obligations totaled $11.7 million and are contractually due in 2016. Prior to resale, in the Company's consolidated balance sheets, these assets are included in prepaid expenses to the extent that advance deposits have been made for such assets (as of December 31, 2015, this amount was $6.3 million ), or in other assets to the extent that the Company has received the asset from its supplier (as of December 31, 2015, this amount was $12.0 million ). Similar to other asset balances, the Company evaluates these assets for impairment on an annual basis, or sooner, if indicators of impairment exist. In the event that the Company determines that the assets' fair value is less than the carrying value, the Company would be required to record an impairment charge with respect to the assets. As of December 31, 2015, there was no impairment of these assets.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders' Equity The Company has authorized two classes of common stock: 350.0 million shares of Class A common stock and 150.0 million shares of Class B common stock. The Class A common stock and Class B common stock each have a par value of $0.01 per share and are identical and generally vote together on all matters, except that the Class A common stock carries one vote per share, whereas the Class B common stock carries 15 votes per share. Class B common stock is convertible to an equivalent number of Class A common stock. In addition, the Company has authorized preferred stock of 100.0 million shares. To date, the Company has not issued any of its preferred stock. Class A Common Stock Stock Repurchase Program. In July 2010, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program pursuant to which the Company may repurchase up to an aggregate of $150.0 million of its outstanding stock. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company did not repurchase any shares of its Class A Common Stock. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company repurchased 1.3 million shares of its outstanding Class A Common Stock for $25.0 million under the July 2010 authorization. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's remaining authorization under the current stock repurchase program was $100.0 million .

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans 401(k) Plan The Company sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan (the "401(k) Plan") under provisions of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC"). Substantially all employees not covered by collective bargaining agreements are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. For most employees, the maximum contribution for the Company's match is currently equal to 50% of the employees' contribution, up to 4% of their eligible compensation, as limited by Section 415 of the IRC. The amount of the Company's contributions, as well as all third-party costs of administering the 401(k) Plan, are paid directly by the Company and totaled $3.0 million , $3.1 million and $2.8 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Multi-employer Pension Plan The Company participates in a multi-employer pension plan for employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. The majority of such employees are in the Motion Picture Industry Pension Plan (Employer Identification Number 95-1810805 Plan Number 001). The Company's collective bargaining agreements with unions associated with this plan expire on July 31, 2018 . As of December 31, 2014 (the most recent date available), the plan was 82% funded. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the Company contributed $2.8 million , $2.6 million and $2.3 million , respectively, to the pension plan. Deferred Compensation Plan The Company sponsors a Special Deferral Election Plan (the "Plan"), a non-qualified deferred compensation plan, which is available for selected employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , the activity associated with the Plan was not material.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation, Allocation and Classification in Financial Statements [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation In 2008, the 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan ("2008 Omnibus Plan") was approved. Concurrent with such approval, the 2008 Omnibus Plan automatically terminated, replaced and superseded the Company's prior plan, the 2004 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan ("2004 Omnibus Plan" and, collectively, with the 2008 Omnibus Plan the "Omnibus Plans"), except that any awards granted under the prior Omnibus Plan would remain in effect pursuant to their original terms. Both Omnibus Plans provided for the grant of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted share awards, restricted stock units, performance compensation awards, performance units and other stock-based equity awards to the Company's employees, directors and consultants. Pursuant to an amendment to the 2008 Omnibus Plan approved by the Company's stockholders on April 21, 2011, for any restricted stock award (or similar award) granted after such date the number of shares available for future awards will be reduced by the number of instruments granted. Prior to April 21, 2011, the number of shares available for future awards was reduced by 1.6 times the number of instruments granted. Pursuant to the April 2011 amendment of the 2008 Omnibus Plan, the aggregate number of shares of Class A common stock that may be issued pursuant to awards granted under the 2008 Omnibus Plan is equal to the sum of (i) 12.0 million , (ii) any shares with respect to awards granted under the 2004 Omnibus Plan or the 2008 Omnibus Plan that are forfeited following the adoption date of the April 2011 amendment of the 2008 Omnibus Plan, and (iii) any shares remaining available for issuance under the 2008 Omnibus Plan as of the date of adoption of the April 2011 amendment. As of December 31, 2015 , approximately 9.7 million shares were available for future grants of equity awards under the 2008 Omnibus Plan. Compensation Cost Recognized . The impact of stock options (including stock appreciation rights) and restricted stock awards on net income (excluding amounts capitalized) for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Total stock-based compensation $ 21,156 $ 19,302 $ 18,531 Tax impact (1) — (1,795 ) (4,874 ) Reduction in net income, net of tax $ 21,156 $ 17,507 $ 13,657 ____________________ (1) For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, tax impact was determined at the Company's combined effective tax rate, which includes the statements of operations line item "Increase/decrease in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder" (see Note 13). However, for the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company's combined effective tax rate was (68.4)% and, as a result of the negative rate, the Company determined that it would not be meaningful to present a tax impact for the current year. Stock-based compensation cost capitalized as a part of film costs was $10.3 million , $14.2 million and $17.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The Company recognizes compensation costs for equity awards granted to its employees based on each award's grant-date fair value. Most of the Company's equity awards contain vesting conditions dependent upon the completion of specified service periods or achievement of established sets of performance criteria. Compensation cost for service-based equity awards is recognized ratably over the requisite service period. Compensation cost for certain performance-based awards is recognized using a graded expense-attribution method and is adjusted to reflect the estimated probability of vesting. The Company has granted performance-based awards where the value of the award upon vesting will vary depending on the level of performance ultimately achieved. The Company recognizes compensation cost for these awards based on the level of performance expected to be achieved. The Company will recognize the impact of any change in estimate in the period of the change. Generally, equity awards are forfeited by employees who terminate prior to vesting. However, employment contracts for certain executive officers and other employees provide for the acceleration of vesting in the event of a change in control or specified termination events. The Company currently satisfies exercises of stock options and stock appreciation rights, the vesting of restricted stock and the delivery of shares upon the vesting of restricted stock units with the issuance of new shares. Management makes estimates of expected forfeitures and recognizes compensation costs only for those equity awards expected to vest. As of December 31, 2015 , the total compensation cost related to unvested equity awards granted to employees (excluding equity awards with performance objectives not probable of achievement) but not yet recognized was approximately $66.5 million and will be amortized on a straight-line basis, or using a graded-attribution method for certain performance-based awards, over a weighted average period of 1.8 years. Restricted Stock Awards. The Company issues restricted stock and restricted stock units (collectively referred to as "restricted stock awards"). The majority of the Company's restricted stock award activity relate to restricted stock units. The following table summarizes information about restricted stock award activity under the Omnibus Plans (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Outstanding at beginning of period 5,382 $ 23.55 5,182 $ 24.26 5,121 $ 22.90 Granted 2,360 $ 22.36 1,825 $ 23.07 1,602 $ 28.19 Vested (1,226 ) $ 22.10 (1,103 ) $ 23.51 (1,199 ) $ 24.16 Forfeited (1,075 ) $ 24.99 (522 ) $ 29.01 (342 ) $ 22.74 Balance at end of year 5,441 $ 23.08 5,382 $ 23.55 5,182 $ 24.26 Compensation cost related to restricted stock awards that vest solely upon service is based upon the market price of the Company's stock on the date of grant, and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, generally of four to seven years. In addition, the Company has granted restricted stock awards that vest upon the achievement of certain cumulative performance goals over a multi-year period as set by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors ("Compensation Committee"). In addition to the attainment of performance criteria, the vesting of the individual awards is further subject to the completion of required service periods ranging from one to four years. The following table summarizes by year of grant the number of restricted stock awards for which vesting is subject to the achievement of performance criteria, as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Year of Grant Performance- Based (1) 2015 664 2014 515 2013 301 2012 556 Total 2,036 ____________________ (1) The performance-based awards have been included herein based on the maximum number of shares that may vest. The total intrinsic value of restricted stock awards that vested totaled $27.2 million during 2015 , $25.5 million during 2014 and $33.5 million during 2013 . The total fair value at grant of restricted stock awards that vested during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $27.1 million , $25.9 million and $29.0 million , respectively. Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights. The fair value of stock option grants or stock-settled stock appreciation rights (which are collectively referred to as "stock options" or "options") with a service-based vesting condition is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Primary input assumptions of the Black-Scholes model used to estimate the fair value of stock options include the grant price of the award, the Company's dividend yield, volatility of the Company's stock, the risk-free interest rate and expected option term. Equity awards of stock options and stock appreciation rights are generally granted with an exercise price based on the market price of the Company's stock on the date of grant, generally vest over a term of four to seven years and expire 10 years after the date of grant. Compensation cost for stock options is recognized ratably over the requisite service period. Estimates of the fair value of stock options are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by employees who receive stock option awards, and subsequent events are not indicative of the reasonableness of the original estimates of fair value made by the Company. The following table summarizes information about stock option/stock appreciation rights activity under the Omnibus Plans (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Outstanding at beginning of period 4,545 $ 29.64 5,814 $ 29.53 6,919 $ 29.54 Options exercised (7 ) $ 25.34 (486 ) $ 28.00 (496 ) $ 28.29 Options expired/canceled (278 ) $ 30.22 (783 ) $ 29.85 (609 ) $ 30.66 Balance at end of year 4,260 $ 29.61 4,545 $ 29.64 5,814 $ 29.53 As of December 31, 2015 , there were no stock option/stock appreciation rights outstanding for which vesting is further subject to the achievement of certain performance or market-based criteria. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the intrinsic value (market value on date of exercise less exercise price) of options exercised and tax benefits realized from options exercised were immaterial. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the intrinsic value of options exercised was $2.2 million and tax benefits realized from options exercised during the year totaled $0.8 million . At December 31, 2015 , the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding, as well as of those exercisable, was $1.4 million . The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2015 : Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices per Share Number Outstanding (in thousands) Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years) Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Number Exercisable (in thousands) Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share $19.29-$23.85 28 3.20 $ 21.68 28 $ 21.68 $24.28-$27.35 1,128 3.61 $ 24.81 1,062 $ 24.71 $28.10-$31.16 1,168 1.95 $ 28.56 1,168 $ 28.56 $31.37-$32.86 1,221 2.76 $ 31.74 1,221 $ 31.74 $35.30-$43.46 715 4.81 $ 35.57 715 $ 35.57 Total 4,260 3.11 $ 29.61 4,194 $ 29.66 The weighted-average remaining contractual life of options that were outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2015 was 3.1 years.

Concentrations of Risk

Concentrations of Risk	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Concentrations of Risk	Concentrations of Risk Concentrations of Risk by Film . A substantial portion of the Company's revenues are derived from its feature films. The following table presents revenues (which are included in the Feature Film and Consumer Products segments) for each film that contributed 10% or more of revenues during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Home $ 132,748 How to Train Your Dragon 2 * $ 159,767 The Croods * 76,247 $ 140,345 Rise of the Guardians * * 77,348 Madagascar 3 * * 95,152 ____________________ * Title did not contribute more than 10% of revenues during the respective year. Concentrations of Credit Risk . Accounts receivable resulting from revenues earned outside of the Company's primary distribution and servicing arrangements are derived from sales to customers located principally in North America, Europe and Asia. The Company and its distributors perform ongoing credit evaluations of their customers and generally do not require collateral. As of each of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , approximately 66% and 49% of the Company's trade accounts receivable balance consisted of long-term receivables related to licensing arrangements with Netflix, Inc. ("Netflix"). Pursuant to the Company's distribution and servicing arrangements, significant accounts receivable may be due from Paramount and Fox from time to time (see Note 4). As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , $95.1 million and $103.9 million , respectively, were due from Fox. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , $133.4 million and $146.9 million , respectively, were due from Paramount. A substantial portion of the Company's revenue is derived directly from the Company's primary third-party distributors, Fox and Paramount. Fox represented approximately 29% , 31% and 19% for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Paramount represented approximately 12% , 25% and 49% of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, 33% and 15% , respectively, of the Company's revenues were earned through license arrangements with Netflix. Collective Bargaining Agreements. As of December 31, 2015 , approximately 38% of the Company's employees were primarily represented under three industry-wide collective bargaining agreements to which the Company is a party. The majority of these employees are represented by agreements that will not expire in the next 12 months.

Segment and Geographic Informat

Segment and Geographic Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Information	Segment and Geographic Information The Company's current reportable segments are the following: Feature Films, Television Series and Specials, Consumer Products and New Media. Feature Films consists of the development, production and exploitation of feature films in the theatrical, television, home entertainment and digital markets. Television Series and Specials consists of the development, production and exploitation of television, direct-to-video and other non-theatrical content in the television, home entertainment and digital markets. Consumer Products consists of the Company's merchandising and licensing activities related to the exploitation of its intellectual property rights. New Media consists of the Company's ATV and related businesses. This segment primarily generates revenues from the production and distribution of content across a variety of channels, including theatrical, home entertainment, television and online video-on-demand, and sponsorship arrangements. Operating segments that are not separately reportable are categorized in "All Other." Segment performance is evaluated based on revenues and segment gross profit. The Company does not allocate assets to each of its operating segments, nor do the Company's chief operating decision makers evaluate operating segments using discrete asset information. Information on the reportable segments and a reconciliation of total segment revenues and segment gross profit to consolidated financial statements are presented below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues Feature Films $ 520,102 $ 453,475 $ 500,112 Television Series and Specials 228,132 102,962 105,950 Consumer Products 86,501 64,817 67,352 New Media 72,774 49,028 11,379 All Other 8,354 14,341 22,123 Total consolidated revenues $ 915,863 $ 684,623 $ 706,916 Segment gross profit (loss) (1) Feature Films $ 190,517 $ (89,401 ) $ 203,303 Television Series and Specials 84,523 6,667 23,119 Consumer Products (3) 29,863 23,697 28,382 New Media 41,102 17,905 2,349 All Other 5,947 (4,980 ) (40 ) Total segment gross profit (loss) $ 351,952 $ (46,112 ) $ 257,113 Reconciliation to consolidated (loss) income before income taxes: Selling and marketing expenses (2) 6,015 11,630 6,004 General and administrative expenses 332,736 262,013 184,631 Product development expenses 4,655 5,217 3,347 Change in fair value of contingent consideration — (16,500 ) 1,500 Other operating income (7,893 ) (8,429 ) (14,709 ) Non-operating expenses (income), net 50,657 (227,634 ) (5,455 ) Loss from equity method investees 15,491 13,808 6,891 Total consolidated (loss) income before income taxes $ (49,709 ) $ (86,217 ) $ 74,904 ____________________ (1) The Company defines segment gross profit as segment revenues less segment costs of revenues (which is comprised of costs of revenues and certain costs classified as a component of "selling and marketing" in its statements of operations). (2) Represents certain selling and marketing expenses that are not included as a component of segment gross profit due to the general nature of such expenses. (3) During the quarter ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an incremental expense of $7.0 million related to its retail development business initiatives. The following table presents goodwill for each of the Company's reportable segments (in thousands): Feature Films Television Series and Specials Consumer Products New Media Total Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 43,995 $ 6,111 $ 10,999 $ — $ 61,105 Acquisition of ATV — — — 118,189 118,189 Balance as of December 31, 2013 43,995 6,111 10,999 118,189 179,294 Acquisitions — — 1,220 10,154 11,374 Balance as of December 31, 2014 and 2015 $ 43,995 $ 6,111 $ 12,219 $ 128,343 $ 190,668 Revenues attributable to foreign countries were approximately $438.1 million , $378.3 million and $383.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Long-lived assets located in foreign countries were not material.

Earnings Per Share Data

Earnings Per Share Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share Data	Earnings Per Share Data The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net (loss) income per share (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Numerator: Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. $ (54,806 ) $ (309,614 ) $ 55,084 Denominator: Weighted average common shares and denominator for basic calculation: Weighted average common shares outstanding 85,960 84,875 84,104 Less: Unvested restricted stock (119 ) (104 ) (110 ) Denominator for basic calculation 85,841 84,771 83,994 Weighted average effects of dilutive stock-based compensation awards: Employee stock options and stock appreciation rights — — 87 Restricted stock awards — — 1,212 Denominator for diluted calculation 85,841 84,771 85,293 Net (loss) income per share—basic $ (0.64 ) $ (3.65 ) $ 0.66 Net (loss) income per share—diluted $ (0.64 ) $ (3.65 ) $ 0.65 The following table sets forth (in thousands) the weighted average number of options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards and equity awards subject to performance conditions which were not included in the calculation of diluted per share amounts because the effects would be anti-dilutive: 2015 (1) 2014 (1) 2013 Options to purchase shares of common stock and restricted stock awards 564 1,378 1,744 Stock appreciation rights — — 4,030 Total 564 1,378 5,774 ____________________ (1) Due to the Company's loss for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, all potential common stock equivalents are anti-dilutive. The following table sets forth (in thousands) the number of equity awards that are contingently issuable (assuming the required performance conditions had been satisfied as of the dates shown in the table) and that could potentially dilute earnings per share in future periods provided that the Company has net income: 2015 2014 2013 Restricted stock awards 1,272 1,366 763

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) The unaudited quarterly financial statements have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited financial statements, and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments, consisting of only normal and recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results of operations for such periods (in thousands, except per share data): Quarter Ended March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 (unaudited) 2015 Revenues $ 166,530 $ 170,782 $ 259,216 $ 319,335 Costs of revenues 106,165 99,939 151,366 168,816 Segment gross profit 53,576 60,593 98,613 139,170 (Loss) income before income taxes (53,490 ) (37,277 ) (1,564 ) 42,622 Net (loss) income (55,890 ) (39,039 ) (4,044 ) 45,009 Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (54,777 ) (38,583 ) (3,519 ) 42,073 Basic net (loss) income per share $ (0.64 ) $ (0.45 ) $ (0.04 ) $ 0.49 Diluted net (loss) income per share $ (0.64 ) $ (0.45 ) $ (0.04 ) $ 0.48 2014 Revenues $ 147,241 $ 122,277 $ 180,861 $ 234,244 Costs of revenues (1) 156,398 75,617 103,719 345,379 Segment gross (loss) profit (1) (13,448 ) 34,745 72,041 (139,450 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (2) (64,883 ) (13,327 ) 14,451 (22,458 ) Net (loss) income (3) (42,416 ) (15,928 ) 11,864 (261,841 ) Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (42,936 ) (15,387 ) 11,928 (263,219 ) Basic net (loss) income per share $ (0.51 ) $ (0.18 ) $ 0.14 $ (3.08 ) Diluted net (loss) income per share $ (0.51 ) $ (0.18 ) $ 0.14 $ (3.08 ) ____________________ (1) During the quarters ended March 31, 2014, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges and write-downs of film and other inventory costs totaling $57.1 million , $2.1 million and $212.7 million , respectively (see Note 6). (2) During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $43.4 million of employee termination costs in connection with its 2015 Restructuring Plan (see Note 24). (3) During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against certain of its deferred tax assets (see Note 13).

Valuation and Qualifying Accoun

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves The following is a summary of the valuation and qualifying accounts included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Operations (1) Deductions (2) Balance at End of Year Trade accounts receivable and Receivables from distributors Allowance for doubtful accounts 2015 $ 6,614 $ 2,200 $ (4,825 ) $ 3,989 2014 $ 6,046 $ 6,558 $ (5,990 ) $ 6,614 2013 $ 2,581 $ 3,465 $ — $ 6,046 Sales returns reserves 2015 $ 15,271 $ 11,228 $ (16,599 ) $ 9,900 2014 $ 23,302 $ 19,785 $ (27,816 ) $ 15,271 2013 $ 13,064 $ 31,797 $ (21,559 ) $ 23,302 ____________________ (1) Sales returns reserves are charged against revenues and are related to the distribution of non-theatrical content and direct-to-video product. (2) For Allowance for doubtful accounts, represents reductions to the allowance for bad debt write-offs. For Sales returns reserves, represents reductions to the reserve for actual returns. Balance at Beginning of Year Decreases to Valuation Allowance Charged to Operations Balance at End of Year Deferred tax assets Valuation allowance 2015 $ 364,244 $ (1,279 ) $ 23,666 $ 386,631 2014 (1) $ 25,265 $ (1,432 ) $ 340,411 $ 364,244 2013 $ 28,749 $ (3,342 ) $ (142 ) $ 25,265 ____________________ (1) See Note 13 for a discussion of changes in the valuation allowance related to the Company's deferred tax assets during the year ended December 31, 2014.

Restructuring and Related Charg

Restructuring and Related Charges	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Charges	Restructuring and Related Charges 2015 Restructuring Plan On January 22, 2015, the Company announced its restructuring initiatives (the "2015 Restructuring Plan") that are intended to refocus the Company's core feature animation business. In connection with the 2015 Restructuring Plan, the Company made changes in its senior leadership team and also made changes based on its reevaluation of the Company's feature film slate. The 2015 Restructuring Plan activities resulted, or will result, in charges related to employee-related costs resulting from headcount reductions, lease obligations and other costs associated with the closure of one of the Company's facilities, accelerated depreciation and amortization charges, write-offs related to the recoverability of capitalized costs for certain unreleased productions and other contractual obligations. Certain of these costs were incurred during the three months ended December 31, 2014 and the remainder of the costs were primarily incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015. The actions associated with the restructuring plan primarily impacted the Feature Films segment and were substantially completed during 2015. Impact to Financial Results For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company incurred charges for the Company's 2015 Restructuring Plan as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Employee termination costs $ 2,394 $ 43,393 Relocation and other employee-related costs 6,459 — Lease obligations and related charges 1,319 — Accelerated depreciation and amortization charges 20,132 — Film and other inventory write-offs — 155,452 Other contractual obligations — 11,229 Total restructuring charges $ 30,304 $ 210,074 Employee termination costs consist of severance and benefits (including stock-based compensation) which are accounted for based on the type of employment arrangement between the Company and the employee. Certain of these arrangements include obligations that are accounted for as non-retirement postemployment benefits. The Company also employs individuals under employment contracts. Charges related to non-retirement postemployment benefits and amounts due under employment contracts for employees who will no longer provide services are accrued when probable and estimable. Severance and benefit costs related to all other employees are accounted for in accordance with accounting guidance on costs associated with exit or disposal activities. Such costs were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2015 as this was the period in which the terms of the restructuring plan had been established, management with the appropriate authority committed to the plan and communication to employees had occurred. Such costs are classified in general and administrative expenses in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. During the year ended December 31, 2015, employee termination costs included approximately 160 additional employees. Cumulative employee termination costs related to the 2015 Restructuring Plan were attributable to approximately 500 employees. Relocation and other employee-related costs primarily consist of costs to relocate employees from the Company's Northern California facility to its Southern California facility. Such costs are expensed as incurred and are classified within general and administrative expenses. Lease obligations and related charges largely consist of remaining rent expense that the Company continues to incur prior to the commencement of the subleases at its Northern California facility. Such costs are expensed as incurred as expected sublease income will be sufficient to recover the remaining lease obligations. Lease obligations and related charges are classified within general and administrative expenses, while sublease income will be classified within other operating income/expense. The Company began recognizing income from subleases during the quarter ended December 31, 2015. Accelerated depreciation and amortization charges for the 2015 Restructuring Plan were determined in accordance with FASB guidance on accounting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. The estimated useful lives of certain property, plant and equipment changed as a result of the Company's decision to exit its Northern California facility. Such costs are classified within general and administrative expenses. Film and other inventory write-offs (as presented in the table above) consist of capitalized production costs for unreleased titles that were written-off due to the Company's decision to change its future film slate, change its creative leadership, abandon certain projects and change creative direction on certain titles. Such write-offs are classified within costs of revenues in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Other contractual obligations consist of amounts due to third parties as a result of the changes made to the Company's film slate. Such costs are accrued when probable and estimable and are classified within selling and marketing or general and administrative expenses in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Liability Rollforward The following table represents a rollforward of the liability incurred for employee termination benefits (excluding stock-based compensation) in connection with the 2015 Restructuring Plan (in thousands): Balance at Beginning of Year Costs Incurred Changes in Estimate (1) Payments and Other Balance at End of Year 2015 $ 36,808 $ 10,286 $ (7,475 ) $ (27,650 ) $ 11,969 2014 $ — $ 36,808 $ — $ — $ 36,808 ____________________ (1) During the year ended December 31, 2015, changes in estimate were primarily a result of decreases in severance liability due to a higher number of employees deciding to relocate and the Company's ability to reduce severance payments to former employees who obtain subsequent employment during their respective severance periods.

Summary of Significant Accoun33

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	In September 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to eliminate the requirement that an acquirer in a business combination account for measurement period adjustments retrospectively. Prior to this update, an acquirer was required to record provisional amounts for a business combination if the initial accounting was incomplete as of the end of the reporting period in which the acquisition occurs. The new guidance requires that acquirers recognize measurement period adjustments during the period in which the adjustment is identified, including the effect on earnings of any amounts it would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The guidance also requires an entity to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amounts recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. The guidance is to be applied prospectively and is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted the new guidance upon issuance of the accounting standards update, which did not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update relating to the presentation of debt issuance costs. The accounting update requires companies to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. In addition, in August 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to incorporate an SEC staff announcement that the SEC staff will not object to an entity presenting debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements as an asset regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company plans to adopt the new guidance effective January 1, 2016. The adoption of this guidance is expected to have an immaterial impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to amend existing guidance relating to the evaluation of certain legal entities for potential consolidation. The amendments modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are VIEs or voting interest entities. In addition, the amendments modify the guidance on evaluating whether a fee paid to a decision maker or a service provider represents a variable interest and whether it should be included in the evaluation of the economics criterion in determining which party is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. In accordance with the accounting standards update, companies are required to reevaluate all legal entities that are considered VIEs to determine whether there is a change in the conclusion as to whether the VIE should be consolidated. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company plans to adopt the new guidance effective January 1, 2016. The Company does not expect an impact on its consolidated financial statements as a result of adopting the guidance. In May 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to provide companies with a single model for use in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers. Once it becomes effective, the new guidance will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of goods or services transfers to the customer and in an amount that reflects the consideration that the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services that have transferred. Under current U.S. GAAP, the Company recognizes revenue when the risks and rewards of ownership transfer to the customer. In addition, the new guidance requires improved disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized and the related cash flows. The guidance is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018, including interim periods within that fiscal year. Early adoption is permitted but no earlier than the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2017. Companies are permitted to either apply the guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented or, alternatively, apply the guidance in the year of adoption with the cumulative effect recognized at the date of initial application (referred to as the modified retrospective approach). The Company does not expect that it will early adopt this standard. The Company is in the process of determining the method of adoption, as well as evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements. However, the Company currently expects that it will adopt the new guidance under the full retrospective approach.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements of the Company present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of DreamWorks Animation and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. The Company also consolidates less-than-wholly owned entities if the Company has a controlling financial interest in that entity. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Intra-entity profit related to transactions with equity method investees is eliminated until the amounts are ultimately realized. In addition, the Company reviews its relationships with other entities to identify whether they are variable interest entities ("VIE") as defined by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB"), and to assess whether the Company is the primary beneficiary of such entity. If the determination is made that the Company is the primary beneficiary, then the entity is consolidated. Non-Controlling Interests A non-controlling interest represents the other equity holder's interest in an entity that the Company consolidates. Non-controlling interests are classified as a separate component of equity in the Company's consolidated balance sheets and statements of equity. Net income and comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests are reflected separately from consolidated net income and comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of operations and statements of equity. Any change in ownership of a subsidiary while the controlling financial interest is retained is accounted for as an equity transaction between the controlling and non-controlling interests.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant estimates made by management in the preparation of the financial statements relate to the following: • ultimate revenues and ultimate costs of film and television product; • relative selling price of the Company's products for purposes of revenue allocation in multi-property licenses and other multiple deliverable arrangements; • determination of fair value of assets and liabilities for the allocation of the purchase price in an acquisition; • determination of the fair value of reporting units for purposes of testing goodwill for impairment; • determination of fair value of non-cash contributions to investments in unconsolidated entities; • useful lives of intangible assets; • product sales that will be returned and the amount of receivables that ultimately will be collected; • the potential outcome of future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements; • loss contingencies and contingent consideration arrangements; and • assumptions used in the determination of the fair value of equity-based awards for stock-based compensation or their probability of vesting. Actual results could differ from those estimates. To the extent that there are material differences between these estimates and actual results, the Company's financial condition or results of operations will be affected. Estimates are based on past experience and other assumptions that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances, and management evaluates these estimates on an ongoing basis.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit and short-term money market investments, primarily comprised of U.S. government securities, that are rated AAA and with maturities of three months or less when purchased.
Trade Accounts Receivable	Trade Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable primarily consists of the following: receivables from licensees of the Company's intellectual property for use in various ancillary markets (such as merchandising, theme parks and cruise ships), receivables from licensees of film catalog and television series/specials titles and receivables related to the distribution of home video product. The Company imputes interest on receivables that are expected to be collectible during a period that exceeds 12 months and at a rate that represents the Company's best estimate of the rate at which the debtor can obtain financing of a similar nature from other sources at the date of the transaction. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, trade accounts receivable included receivables totaling $142.7 million and $85.1 million , respectively, which were reduced by unamortized discounts totaling $14.3 million and $5.1 million , respectively. Interest rates used to impute interest ranged from 3% to 14% . The Company routinely reviews outstanding trade accounts receivable balances to determine whether an allowance for doubtful accounts should be recorded. The Company records an allowance for doubtful accounts for receivables on a specific identification basis.
Investments	Investments Investments associated with the Company's non-qualified deferred compensation plan (see Note 17) are classified as available-for-sale. Such investments are recorded at fair value, based on quoted prices in active markets, and unrealized gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , unrealized gains and losses were not material. Investments are reviewed on a regular basis to evaluate whether a decline in fair value below cost is other than temporary.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable, advances and amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility approximates carrying value due to the short-term maturity of such instruments and floating interest rates. As of December 31, 2015 , the fair value of trade accounts receivable approximated carrying value due to the similarities in the initial and current discount rates. In addition, as of December 31, 2015 , the fair value and the carrying value of the senior unsecured notes was $308.0 million and $300.0 million , respectively. The fair value of trade accounts receivable and the senior unsecured notes was determined using significant unobservable inputs by performing a discounted cash flow analysis and using current discount rates as appropriate for each type of instrument. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company limits its exposure to credit loss by placing its cash and cash equivalents in short-term money-market investments, which are rated AAA, with several financial institutions. Such investments, which are included in "Cash and cash equivalents" on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value, based on quoted prices in active markets.
Cost Method Investments	The Company applies the cost method of accounting for investments in the common stock of unconsolidated entities when the Company does not have the ability to exercise significant influence. For investments in preferred stock, the Company applies the cost method of accounting if it concludes that the preferred stock is not in-substance common stock.
Equity Method Investments	The Company uses the equity method of accounting for investments in companies in which it has a 50% or less ownership interest and has the ability to exercise significant influence. Prior to recording its share of net income or losses from equity method investees, investee financial statements are converted to U.S. GAAP.
Business Acquisitions	Business Acquisitions The Company accounts for business acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting, whereby the purchase price (defined as the total consideration transferred to acquire the business) is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value. The excess of the purchase price over estimated fair value of the net identifiable assets is allocated to goodwill. The determination of estimated fair values requires significant estimates and assumptions including, but not limited to, expected use of the assets acquired, the expected cost to extinguish a liability, future cash flows to be generated from intellectual property and developing appropriate discount rates and market multiples. A change in the estimated fair value of an asset or liability often has a direct impact on the amount to recognize as goodwill, which is an asset that is not amortized. In applying the purchase method of accounting for a business acquisition, management may make adjustments to the fair value allocation, as of the acquisition date, during the measurement period (which is defined as a period of up to one year from the closing date of the acquisition) as a result of additional information obtained subsequent to the initial reporting of the acquisition. Such measurement period adjustments are presented on a retrospective basis for acquisitions that occurred prior to 2015. Adjustments made to the allocation of the purchase price, or adjustments made as a result of changes in estimates or assumptions, could impact the amount of assets, including goodwill, and liabilities, ultimately recorded on the Company's balance sheet and could impact its operating results subsequent to such acquisition.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are stated at the lower of cost or fair value. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is calculated using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives assigned to each major asset category as shown below: Asset Category Estimated Useful Life Buildings 40 years Building improvements 10 years Furniture and equipment 5-10 years Computer hardware, software and equipment 2-5 years Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset, not to exceed the remaining term of the lease. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
Gross versus Net Revenue	Gross versus Net Revenue Certain of the Company's feature films, television specials and other properties are primarily distributed and marketed by third party distributors. The Company evaluates its arrangements with third parties to determine whether revenue should be reported under each individual arrangement on a gross or net basis by determining whether the Company acts as the principal or agent under the terms of each arrangement. To the extent that the Company acts as the principal in an arrangement, revenues are reported on a gross basis, resulting in revenues and expenses being classified in their respective financial statement line items. Conversely, to the extent that the Company acts as the agent in an arrangement, revenues are reported on a net basis, resulting in revenues being presented net of any related expenses. Determining whether the Company acts as principal or agent is based on an evaluation of which party has substantial risks and rewards of ownership under the terms of an arrangement. The most significant factors that the Company considers include identification of the primary obligor, as well as which party has general and physical inventory risk, credit risk and discretion in the supplier selection. The Company's primary distribution arrangements, which are those for its theatrical releases, are recorded on a net basis as a result of the evaluation previously described. Revenues and costs related to the Company's non-feature film content are typically recorded on a gross basis.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue from the distribution of its animated feature films when earned and reported to it by its distributors. Pursuant to the Company's distribution arrangements with Fox, Paramount and ODW, the Company recognizes revenues derived from its feature films net of reserves for returns, rebates and other incentives after the particular distributor has retained its respective distribution fees (without deduction for any distribution and marketing costs or third-party distribution and fulfillment services fees) and recovered all of its permissible distribution and marketing costs with respect to the Company's films on a title-by-title basis. Fox retains a fee of 8.0% of all theatrical gross receipts and home video gross receipts, except in connection with certain pay television and video-on-demand rights and other digital distribution rights, for which the fee is 6.0% . Paramount retains a distribution fee of 8.0% of revenues across all markets. ODW retains a fee of 8.0% of all gross receipts for the markets in which it distributes. For further discussion of the Company's primary distribution arrangements, refer to Note 4. Additionally, because third parties are the principal distributors of the Company's films, the amount of revenue that is recognized from films in any given period is dependent on the timing, accuracy and sufficiency of the information received from its distributors. As is typical in the film industry, the Company's distributors may make adjustments in future periods to information previously provided to the Company that could have a material impact on the Company's operating results in later periods. Furthermore, management may, in its judgment, make material adjustments to the information reported by its distributors in future periods to ensure that revenues are accurately reflected in the Company's financial statements. To date, the distributors have not made, nor has the Company made, subsequent material adjustments to information provided by the distributors and used in the preparation of the Company's historical financial statements. Revenue from the theatrical exhibition of films is recognized at the later of when a film is exhibited in theaters or when revenue is reported by the Company's distributors. Revenue from both free and pay television licensing agreements for the Company's films is recognized at the later of the time the production is made available for exhibition in those markets or it is reported by its distributors. The Company has also entered into licensing arrangements directly with third parties to digitally distribute its feature film and television series/specials content. Such revenues are recorded on a gross basis as they are not typically subject to the distribution arrangements with the Company's primary distributors and, accordingly, the Company receives payment and records revenues directly from third parties. Revenues generated under these licensing arrangements is recognized at the later of the time when the content has been delivered to and accepted by the licensee or the commencement of the license term. Revenue from the sale of feature film home video units is recognized at the later of when product is made available for retail sale and when sales to customers are reported by third parties, such as fulfillment service providers or distributors. Revenue from the sale of home video units for other content (such as television series/specials) is recorded on a gross basis (because the Company is considered the principal in the transactions) and is recognized when the criteria for revenue recognition have been met. Certain of the Company's home video distribution arrangements for its non-feature film content include non-refundable, but recoupable, minimum guarantees. Minimum guarantees that are not fully recouped are recognized as revenue once the minimum guarantee period has expired and the Company is able to determine the amount of remaining revenues to be recognized. The criteria the Company evaluates to determine whether it is able to recognize revenue include persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed and determinable, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, risk of inventory loss has transferred and collectibility is reasonably assured. In addition, the Company and its distributors provide for future returns of home video product and for customer programs and sales incentives. The Company and its distributors calculates these estimates by analyzing a combination of historical returns, current economic trends, projections of consumer demand for the Company's product and point-of-sale data available from certain retailers. Based on this information, a percentage of each sale is reserved. Customers are typically given varying rights of return, which may include 100% return rights. Although the Company and its distributors allow various rights of return for customers, management does not believe that these rights are critical in establishing return estimates, because other factors, such as historical experience with similar types of sales, information received from retailers and management's assessment of the product's appeal based on domestic box office success and other research, are more important to the estimation process. Revenue from merchandising and other licensing arrangements is recognized when the associated feature film or television series/special has been released and the criteria for revenue recognition have been met. The criteria that the Company uses to evaluate whether it is able to recognize revenue include the following: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed and determinable, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered (including whether the license term has commenced) and collectibility is reasonably assured. Licensing and merchandising related minimum guarantees are generally recognized as revenue upon the theatrical release of a film and royalty-based revenues (revenues based upon a percentage of net sales of the products) are generally recognized as revenue in periods when royalties are reported by licensees or cash is received. Certain of the Company's arrangements may qualify as multiple deliverable arrangements if the licensee is granted the right to exploit more than one of the Company's titles or properties. The license period for each property under a multiple deliverable arrangement may vary by title or property. Revenue associated with multiple deliverable arrangements is allocated to each title or property based on relative selling price. In determining the relative selling price of each title or property, the Company considers a variety of factors including (but not limited to) the period of time a title or property has already been exploited in the marketplace, whether the title is a sequel, the duration of the license period being granted, the territories for which the license is being granted, similar arrangements and type of content or property being licensed. Revenue for each title or property will be recognized when it is available to the licensee for exploitation. As a result of one of the Company's agreements with Netflix, it is currently developing and producing original episodic content in order to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. In cases where a television series is based on characters from one of the Company's feature films, a portion of the third-party revenues generated by the new series is allocated to the feature film title from which the series originated. This revenue allocation represents a license fee charged to the television series for use of intellectual property derived from the related feature film. Long-term, non-interest-bearing receivables arising from licensing agreements are discounted to present value. Accordingly, revenues are recorded net of such discount. Interest income is recognized from the imputation of interest in accordance with the effective interest rate method and classified as "Interest income, net" in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
Film and Other Inventory Costs	Film and Other Inventory Costs. The production costs of the Company's animated feature films, television series/specials and other content are stated at the lower of cost less accumulated amortization, or fair value. Production overhead, a component of film costs, includes allocable costs of individuals or departments with exclusive or significant responsibility for the production of films or television products. A significant portion of the Company's resources are dedicated to the production of its film and television product. Capitalized production overhead does not include selling and marketing and general and administrative expenses. Interest expense, if any, is capitalized into film costs while the film is in the "in production" phase. In addition to the films and television series/specials being produced, costs of productions in development are capitalized as development film costs and are transferred to film production costs when a film or television series/special is set for production. In the event a film or television series/specials is not set for production within three years from the time the first costs are capitalized or the film or television series/specials is abandoned, all such costs are generally expensed.
Costs of Revenues	Film and Other Inventory Costs Amortization. Once a feature film, television series/special or other content is released, capitalized production costs are amortized and participations and residual costs are accrued on an individual title basis in the proportion that the revenue during the period for each title ("Current Revenue") bears to the estimated remaining total revenue to be recognized from all sources for each title ("Ultimate Revenue"). The amount of film and other inventory costs that is amortized each period will depend on the ratio of Current Revenue to Ultimate Revenue for each film, television series/special or other content for such period. The Company makes certain estimates and judgments of Ultimate Revenue to be recognized for each title based on information received from its distributor or its operating partners, as well as its knowledge of the industry and historical experience. Ultimate Revenue does not include estimates of revenue that will be earned more than 10 years from a film's initial theatrical release date. Ultimate Revenue for television series/specials does not include estimates of revenue that will be earned more than 10 years from the date of delivery of the first episode. Estimates of Ultimate Revenue and anticipated participation and residual costs are reviewed periodically in the ordinary course of business and are revised if necessary. A change in any given period to the Ultimate Revenue for an individual title will result in an increase or decrease to the percentage of amortization of capitalized film and other inventory costs and accrued participation and residual costs relative to a previous period. Depending on the performance of a title, significant changes to future Ultimate Revenue may occur, which could result in significant changes to the amortization of the capitalized production costs. Unamortized film, television series/specials and other production costs are evaluated for impairment each reporting period on a title-by-title basis to determine whether there are indicators of impairment. If there are indicators of impairment, the Company will determine the fair value of the unamortized costs for the title and the excess of the carrying value above the fair value is written off and the amount is classified as costs of revenues in the consolidated statements of operations and as amortization and write-off of film and other inventory costs in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company estimates the fair value of its film and other inventory costs by calculating the net present value of the estimated remaining net cash flows to be generated for the title being evaluated. The Company bases these fair value measurements on unobservable inputs derived from the Company's assumptions about how market participants would price the asset. Due to the nature of these assets, market data for similar assets is not available. Key assumptions used in such fair value measurements include: (1) the discount rate applied to future cash flow streams, which is based on a risk-free rate plus a risk premium representing the risk associated with the type of property being exploited, (2) the performance in markets not yet released and (3) the number of years over which the Company estimates future net cash flows. The Company considers the sensitivity of these inputs in assessing its assumptions. See Note 6 for further information related to the impairment evaluation of film and other inventory costs. Additionally, on occasion, the Company may change the creative direction of, or abandon, one or more of the Company's films or other projects after being placed into production. As a result, amounts previously capitalized as production costs may be expensed. Other. Costs of revenues also include manufacturing costs related to physical inventory product sales and amortization of certain intangible assets that directly correlate with revenues generated (this primarily consists of character rights).
Selling and Marketing Expenses	Selling and Marketing Expense Selling and marketing expenses primarily consist of advertising and marketing costs, promotion costs, distribution fees and sales commissions to outside third parties. Generally, given the structure of the Company's feature film distribution arrangements (see Note 4), the Company does not incur distribution, marketing, prints and advertising costs or third-party distribution and fulfillment services fees associated with the exploitation of its feature films. Distribution and marketing costs associated with the exploitation of the Company's feature films would be included in selling and marketing expenses to the extent that the Company caused its distributors to make additional expenditures in excess of mutually agreed amounts. The Company's television series and specials are typically not subject to the same distribution agreements as its feature films, and accordingly, selling and marketing expenses include distribution and marketing costs directly incurred by the Company.
Advertising and Marketing Expenses	Advertising and marketing expenses that are not captured under the distribution and servicing arrangements, which are those primarily associated with the Company's merchandising and promotional activities and television series/specials, are expensed as incurred by the Company.
General and Administrative Expenses	General and Administrative Expense General and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee compensation (including salaries, bonuses, stock-based compensation and employee benefits), rent, insurance, fees for professional services and restructuring-related charges.
Product Development Expense	Product Development Expense The Company records product development costs, which primarily consist of research and development costs related to its technology initiatives. Product development costs incurred prior to reaching the application development or technological feasibility stage are expensed. Certain software development costs incurred after reaching the application development stage (in the case of internally developed software and software as a service) or the technological feasibility stage (in the case of software to be sold, leased or marketed) are capitalized.
Other Operating Income	Other Operating Income The Company classifies operating-related income or gains that are not considered revenues as other operating income in its consolidated statements of operations. Other operating income generally consists of income recognized in connection with the Company's contributions to ODW in the form of consulting and training services and the license of technology. Costs incurred to fulfill the Company's obligations related to these contributions are included in general and administrative expenses in its consolidated statements of operations. Income related to the Company's contributions in the form of intellectual property licenses are included in revenues. The Company only recognizes the proportion of gains on contributions to equity method investees that is attributable to other investors' equity ownership interest in the investee. As part of the Company's contribution commitments to ODW, it has committed to licensing certain of its internally developed animation technology to ODW, including preparing the software in a format that can be delivered to ODW and providing ongoing maintenance. The Company determined, due to the level of preparation involved, that this constitutes significant modification and customization of the existing software, and accordingly, it uses the percentage-of-completion method for recognition of the income associated with this contribution. This amount is classified as other operating income in the consolidated statements of operations. Under the percentage-of-completion method, the Company uses costs incurred to measure progress towards completion. In addition, the Company makes certain estimates of the overall gross profit of the license granted and any changes in such estimates will be recorded in the period in which the change occurs. As the Company's investment in ODW is accounted for under the equity method of accounting, it only recognizes gross profit margin to the extent that control has transferred through the equity ownership interests (i.e., only 54.55% of the gross margin is recognized, which represents the portion of ODW that the Company does not own). Other operating income also consists of amounts earned under sublease arrangements and amortization of the deferred gain on the Company's sales leaseback transaction.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The Company records employee stock-based compensation by measuring the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. Estimates of the fair value of stock-based compensation awards are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by employees who receive such awards, and subsequent events are not indicative of the reasonableness of the original estimates of fair value made by the Company. Changes to the Company's assessment of the probability of achieving performance criteria or the satisfaction of such criteria for performance-based awards granted to employees could significantly affect compensation expense to be recognized in future periods.
Provision for Income Taxes	Provision for Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes pursuant to the asset and liability method. Accordingly, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates or a change in tax status is recognized in the Company's financial statements in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred income tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In evaluating its ability to recover its deferred income tax assets, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including its operating results, ongoing prudent and feasible tax-planning strategies, forecasts of future taxable income and the number of years remaining prior to the expiration of existing net operating loss carryforwards. In evaluating the forecasts, the Company also considers whether it will be able to generate future taxable income at sufficient levels to realize its deferred tax assets. See Note 13 for a discussion of changes in the valuation allowance related to the Company's deferred tax assets during the year ended December 31, 2014. At the time of the Company's separation from the entity then known as DreamWorks L.L.C. ("Old DreamWorks Studios") in 2004, affiliates controlled by a former stockholder entered into a series of transactions that resulted in a partial increase in the tax basis of the Company's tangible and intangible assets ("Tax Basis Increase"). This Tax Basis Increase was initially $1.61 billion , with the potential to reduce the amount of tax that the Company may pay in the future, to the extent the Company generates sufficient future taxable income, by $595.0 million . The Company is obligated to remit to the affiliate of the former stockholder 85% of any such cash savings under this "Stockholder's Tax Agreement" in U.S. Federal income tax, California franchise tax and certain other related tax benefits, subject to repayment if it is determined that these savings should not have been available to the Company. The effect of the Tax Basis Increase on the Company's deferred tax assets was initially recognized in equity. Subsequent remeasurements of the deferred tax assets related to the Tax Basis Increase are recorded in the Company's statements of operations. To address uncertainty in tax positions, the Company uses a single comprehensive model that establishes the minimum recognition threshold and a measurement attribute for tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in order to be recognized in the financial statements (referred to as unrecognized tax benefits). The Company records reserves for uncertain tax positions based on its estimates of the amounts that are likely to be sustained under audit. In formulating such estimates, the Company considers the tax positions taken on its tax returns by evaluating current tax law, regulations and rulings published by taxing authorities, court decisions and recent audit results. The Company continues to follow the practice of recognizing interest and penalties related to income tax matters as part of the provision for income taxes.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets The Company evaluates long-lived assets used in operations for impairment losses on an annual basis or when indicators of impairment are present. If the Company determines that indicators of impairment exist, the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are compared to the assets' carrying amount. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the assets' carrying amount, then the assets are deemed to not be recoverable from future cash flows and an impairment calculation is performed by determining the fair value of any impaired assets. The amount that an asset's carrying value exceeds the fair value is recorded as an impairment loss.
Goodwill	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The Company performs a goodwill impairment test on an annual basis, or sooner if indicators of impairment are identified. In connection with the goodwill impairment test, the Company typically first performs a qualitative assessment which includes reviewing factors such as changes since the most recently performed valuation of key assumptions used, market capitalization attributable to each reporting unit where goodwill is assigned, profit and margin trends and forecasts, macro-economic conditions, industry conditions and analyst reports. In addition, the Company performs sensitivity analysis of any financial data that is included in this assessment.
Intangible Assets	The Company has definite and indefinite-lived intangible assets, which primarily consist of character rights and distribution rights. At the time an acquisition occurs, management makes estimates and assumptions as to whether each intangible asset identified has a definite life or is indefinite-lived. Character rights determined to have an indefinite life were due to the notoriety of the characters, as well as the strength and stability of the historical cash flows, which the Company believes will continue indefinitely. Definite-lived intangible assets consisting of character rights, distribution rights and programming content are amortized on a basis that aligns with the best estimate of the pattern of consumption of the asset over the individual asset's estimated useful life. The straight-line basis of amortization is used when the estimated cash flows from the assets are expected to be stable over the course of the assets' lives and not prone to significant volatility. For assets where the consumption pattern may fluctuate over time, the Company uses an amortization method that is based on the ratio that current gross revenues for the asset bear to the total of current and anticipated future gross revenues. The Company's definite-lived intangible assets have assigned useful lives ranging from two to 15 years. On an annual basis, the Company reassesses whether the useful lives assigned continue to be appropriate. In addition, indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed annually to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the assets (on an asset-by-asset basis) is less than its carrying amount. The Company's qualitative assessment includes an evaluation of remaining future net cash flows expected to be attributable to the intangible assets, macro-economic conditions and industry conditions.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share The Company calculates basic per share amounts excluding dilution and using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period, which includes the effects of treasury share purchases. Diluted per share amounts are calculated using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and, if dilutive, potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares include unvested restricted stock awards, common shares issuable upon exercise of stock options and stock appreciation rights using the treasury stock method and certain contingently issuable shares.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency The financial position and results of operations of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are determined, typically, using local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate in effect at each balance sheet date, except for certain investment and equity accounts which are translated at historical exchange rates. Income statement accounts are translated at average exchange rates in effect during each financial period. Foreign currency translation adjustments are included in accumulated other comprehensive income as a component of stockholders' equity. Foreign currency gains and losses related to intercompany transactions are classified in accumulated other comprehensive income if settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future. Gains or losses related to intercompany transactions where settlement is anticipated, or those that result from the remeasurement of receivables and payables denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of an entity, are included as a component of other income/expense (net).
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of two components, net income and other comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income refers to revenue, expenses, gains and losses that under generally accepted accounting principles are recorded as an element of stockholders' equity but are excluded from net income. The Company's other comprehensive income consists primarily of foreign currency translation adjustments that result from the consolidation of its foreign entities. The net income attributable to the non-controlling interests is presented in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. There is no other comprehensive income or loss attributable to the non-controlling interests.

Summary of Significant Accoun34

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment	Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is calculated using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives assigned to each major asset category as shown below: Asset Category Estimated Useful Life Buildings 40 years Building improvements 10 years Furniture and equipment 5-10 years Computer hardware, software and equipment 2-5 years

Distribution and Servicing Ar35

Distribution and Servicing Arrangements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Distribution and Servicing Arrangements [Abstract]
Summary of certain key terms in primary distribution arrangements	The following table summarizes certain of the key terms related to the primary distribution arrangements under which the Company's films are distributed (which is followed by further detail of each of these arrangements): Agreement Provision Paramount Agreements Fox Distribution Agreement Films Covered By Agreement All films released between February 2000 and December 31, 2012 (i) All films released theatrically between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2017 (ii) Previously released films as distribution rights become available (e.g., films released prior to February 2000) Rights Television and related media (e.g., subscription video-on-demand and free video-on-demand) (i) All rights for films released prior to February 2000 and after January 1, 2013 (ii) Theatrical, non-theatrical, home entertainment and digital transactional rights for other feature films Territory Worldwide Worldwide, excluding China and South Korea Minimum Film Commitment 13 pictures None Retained Rights All rights not expressly granted, including derivative productions, theme park, merchandising, music and commercial tie-ins and promotions (i) domestic television, SVOD and certain other digital rights (other than TVOD/EST/DTO) (ii) certain international television and SVOD rights subject to pre-existing agreements (iii) derivative productions, theme park, merchandise, music and commercial tie-ins and promotions (iv) nonexclusive rights to sell directly to consumers through "digital storefronts" Distribution Fee 8% of revenues 8% of revenues, except 6% of: (i) domestic pay television (if licensed to Fox) (ii) new international pay television agreements (i.e., those entered into after the date of the Fox Distribution Agreement, but excluding approved extensions of prior output agreements) (iii) worldwide VOD and other digital distribution (excluding TVOD where packaged with physical) Period of Distribution Rights ("Tail") Distribution rights for each picture continue for 16 years after its initial domestic theatrical release Distribution rights for all pictures continue until one year after initial home video release of the last theatrical release during the output term, subject to television licenses approved by the Company that extend after such period Change in Control Provision During certain periods, the Company could have terminated upon a change in control and payment of a specified fee Either party may terminate if either party experiences a "change in control"

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables) - AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of total consideration for business combination	The following table outlines the components of consideration for the transaction (in thousands): As of May 3, 2013 Cash payment $ 33,460 Estimated contingent consideration 95,000 Total consideration $ 128,460
Schedule of purchase price allocation	The following table summarizes the final allocation of the purchase price (in thousands): As of May 3, 2013 (1) Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,340 Trade receivables (2) 1,279 Prepaid and other assets 434 Productions costs 612 Property, plant and equipment 183 Intangible assets 12,900 Total identified assets acquired 16,748 Accounts payable 655 Deferred revenue 2,057 Deferred tax liabilities, net 3,765 Total liabilities assumed 6,477 Net identified assets acquired 10,271 Goodwill (3) 118,189 Total consideration $ 128,460 ____________________ (1) Measurement period adjustments include a $0.9 million decrease in goodwill, which resulted from changes in the fair value of the estimated contingent consideration of $0.5 million , as well as a decrease to deferred tax liabilities of $0.4 million . (2) Gross contractual amounts due total $1.3 million and, of this amount, no amounts are deemed to be uncollectible. (3) The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of ATV is not deductible for tax purposes.

Film and Other Inventory Costs

Film and Other Inventory Costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Film Costs [Abstract]
Film, television and other inventory costs	Film, television and other inventory costs consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 In release, net of amortization: Feature films $ 227,372 $ 392,186 Television series and specials 124,911 67,803 In production: Feature films 308,114 206,240 Television series and specials 50,810 62,426 In development: Feature films 99,541 88,200 Television series and specials 846 1,118 Product inventory and other (1) 8,860 9,917 Total film, television and other inventory costs, net $ 820,454 $ 827,890 ____________________ (1) As of each of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , this category included $6.7 million of physical inventory of certain DreamWorks Animation and Classic Media titles for distribution primarily in the home entertainment market.

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment	Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands): Gross Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Net As of December 31, 2015: Leasehold improvements (1) $ 8,660 $ (2,830 ) $ 5,830 Furniture and equipment 21,258 (13,780 ) 7,478 Computer hardware and software 108,236 (91,145 ) 17,091 Construction in progress 7,366 — 7,366 Total property, plant and equipment $ 145,520 $ (107,755 ) $ 37,765 As of December 31, 2014: Land, buildings and improvements $ 221,660 $ (81,201 ) $ 140,459 Furniture and equipment 24,336 (13,880 ) 10,456 Computer hardware and software 99,010 (80,342 ) 18,668 Construction in progress 11,024 — 11,024 Total property, plant and equipment $ 356,030 $ (175,423 ) $ 180,607 ____________________ (1) As of December 31, 2015, the Company no longer owned any buildings or building improvements as a result of a sales leaseback transaction (see Note 12 for further information).

Intangible Assets (Tables)

Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of definite-lived assets	In addition, intangible assets included definite-lived intangible assets as follows (in thousands, unless otherwise noted): Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Impact of Foreign Currency Translation Net As of December 31, 2015: Character rights 13.9 $ 99,000 $ (21,150 ) $ (2,734 ) $ 75,116 Distribution rights 11.2 30,000 (4,671 ) — 25,329 Programming content 2.0 11,200 (11,200 ) — — Trademarks and trade names 10.0 1,410 (356 ) — 1,054 Other intangibles 4.4 2,700 (1,271 ) — 1,429 Total $ 144,310 $ (38,648 ) $ (2,734 ) $ 102,928 As of December 31, 2014: Character rights 13.9 $ 99,000 $ (15,101 ) $ (568 ) $ 83,331 Distribution rights 11.2 30,000 (1,604 ) — 28,396 Programming content 2.0 11,200 (9,333 ) — 1,867 Trademarks and trade names 10.0 1,410 (216 ) — 1,194 Other intangibles 4.4 2,700 (747 ) — 1,953 Total $ 144,310 $ (27,001 ) $ (568 ) $ 116,741
Schedule of expected amortization	The Company expects to record amortization over the next five years as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 11,690 2017 13,595 2018 10,362 2019 11,453 2020 12,609 Total $ 59,709

Investments in Unconsolidated40

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities [Abstract]
Schedule of cost and equity method investments	These investments are classified as investments in unconsolidated entities in the consolidated balance sheets and consist of the following (in thousands, unless otherwise indicated): Ownership Percentage at December 31, December 31, 2015 2015 2014 Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited 45.45% $ 16,804 $ 17,422 All Other (1) 19.9%-50.0% 10 6,029 Total equity method investments 16,814 23,451 Total cost method investments (1) 16,000 11,879 Total investments in unconsolidated entities $ 32,814 $ 35,330 ____________________ (1) Refer to Note 2 for information on the impairment of certain equity and cost method investments.
Schedule of losses from equity method investments	Loss from equity method investees consist of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Oriental DreamWorks Holding Limited (1) $ 14,527 $ 11,127 $ 5,352 All Other 964 2,681 1,539 Loss from equity method investees $ 15,491 $ 13,808 $ 6,891 ____________________ (1) The Company currently records its share of ODW results on a one-month lag. Accordingly, the Company's consolidated financial statements include its share of losses incurred by ODW from the period beginning and ending one month prior to the period shown in the table.
Schedule of differences in venture-level equity and investment in unconsolidated entity	The following table presents summarized financial information for ODW (1) (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Current assets $ 49,427 $ 58,195 Noncurrent assets $ 73,340 $ 81,178 Current liabilities $ 28,114 $ 37,084 Noncurrent liabilities $ 233 $ 319 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues $ 20,554 $ 29,921 $ 21,913 Costs of revenues $ 13,848 $ 27,528 $ 20,944 Net loss $ 34,431 $ 27,735 $ 14,232 ____________________ (1) The financial information presented in this table does not present summarized financial information for the Company's other equity method investees as the amounts are de minimus . The following are the differences between the Company's venture-level equity and the balance of its investment in ODW (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Company's venture-level equity $ 42,914 $ 46,345 Technology and intellectual property licenses (1) (6,833 ) (12,714 ) Other (2) (19,277 ) (16,209 ) Total ODW investment recorded $ 16,804 $ 17,422 ____________________ (1) Represents differences between the Company's historical cost basis and the equity basis reflected at the venture-level (the amount recorded on the balance sheet of ODW) related to the Company's contributions of technology and intellectual property licenses. These basis differences arise because the contributed assets are recorded at fair value by ODW. (2) Represents the Company's net contribution commitment due to ODW.

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Schedule of accrued liabilities	Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Employee compensation $ 85,616 $ 67,084 Participations and residuals 46,562 50,646 Interest payable 8,069 7,951 Deferred rent 10,446 11,049 Other accrued liabilities 48,972 53,487 Total accrued liabilities $ 199,665 $ 190,217

Deferred Revenue and Other Ad42

Deferred Revenue and Other Advances (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of deferred revenue and other advances included in the consolidated balance sheets	The following is a summary of deferred revenue and other advances included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the related amounts earned and recorded either as revenue in the consolidated statements of operations or recorded as an offset to other costs (as described below) for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Amounts Earned Balance at December 31, For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Deferred Revenue (1) $ 25,035 $ 1,074 $ 29,082 $ 13,186 $ 23,350 Strategic Alliance/Development Advances (2) 1,826 1,667 32,319 30,741 31,622 Other (3)(4) 47,798 31,154 72,421 58,339 62,083 Total deferred revenue and other advances $ 74,659 $ 33,895 ____________________ (1) Deferred revenue consists of those arrangements related to the licensing of content for distribution in the home entertainment, television and new media markets. (2) The Company has strategic alliances with various technology companies pursuant to which the companies are permitted to promote themselves as DreamWorks Animation's preferred technology provider in exchange for advancing the Company specified annual amounts. In addition, under the agreements, the Company makes purchases of the technology companies' equipment. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned against the "Strategic Alliance/Development Advances," $15.6 million , $10.0 million and $17.7 million , respectively, were capitalized as an offset to property, plant and equipment. Additionally, during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned, $5.0 million , $4.4 million and $1.6 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to other assets. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , $1.6 million , $6.9 million and $2.6 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to prepaid expenses. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , of the total amounts earned, $2.1 million , $2.4 million and $1.4 million , respectively, were recorded as a reduction to operating expenses. (3) "Other" consists of all remaining arrangements that result in deferred revenue or other advances and are related to a variety of activities that result in amounts being earned to either revenues or other income. (4) Of the total amounts earned in "Other," for the year ended December 31, 2014 , $14.0 million was recorded as a reduction to film and other inventory costs as it related to an asset sale.

Financing Arrangements (Tables)

Financing Arrangements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of financing arrangements	The following table summarizes information associated with the Company's financing arrangements (in thousands, except percentages): Balance Outstanding at Interest Expense December 31, Maturity Date Interest Rate at Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Senior Unsecured Notes $ 300,000 $ 300,000 August 2020 6.875% $ 16,941 $ 12,316 $ 2,433 Revolving Credit Facility $ 60,000 $ 215,000 February 2020 2.82% $ 3,854 $ 2,979 $ 1,423 Lease Financing Obligation (1) $ — $ — N/A N/A $ 3,750 N/A N/A ____________________ N/A: Not applicable (1) As previously described, during the three months ended September 30, 2015, the Company's lease financing obligation was reduced to zero due to the change in classification of the sales-leaseback transaction.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of domestic and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes	The following are the domestic and foreign components of the Company's income (loss) before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Domestic $ (66,901 ) $ (80,140 ) $ 73,640 Foreign 17,192 (6,077 ) 1,264 (Loss) income before income taxes $ (49,709 ) $ (86,217 ) $ 74,904
Components of the provision (benefit) for income taxes	The following are the components of the provision (benefit) for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Current: Federal $ (78 ) $ (479 ) $ 8 State and local 179 (888 ) (2,909 ) Foreign 3,085 2,743 1,704 Total current provision (benefit) 3,186 1,376 (1,197 ) Deferred: Federal 1,536 185,849 27,524 State and local (467 ) 34,879 (7,146 ) Total deferred provision 1,069 220,728 20,378 Total provision for income taxes $ 4,255 $ 222,104 $ 19,181
Schedule of effective income tax rate reconciliation	Set forth below is a reconciliation of the components that caused the Company's provision for income taxes (including the statement of operations line item "Decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder") to differ from amounts computed by applying the U.S. Federal statutory rate of 35% for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . 2015 2014 (2) 2013 (2) Provision for income taxes (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder) (1) : U.S. Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit 6.4 1.7 (2.5 ) Export sales exclusion/manufacturer's deduction 5.8 0.3 (0.2 ) Research and development credit 2.1 0.3 (3.6 ) Federal energy tax credit (3) — — (2.2 ) Executive compensation (5.4 ) (0.9 ) 3.4 Stock-based compensation (3.6 ) (2.3 ) 3.2 Change in valuation allowance (4) (128.0 ) (25.9 ) (0.2 ) Change in certain California unrecognized tax benefits (5) — — (5.4 ) Revaluation of deferred tax assets (6) 1.1 (0.2 ) (2.4 ) Foreign rate differential 19.4 (0.3 ) (0.1 ) Corporate joint ventures 4.3 (0.3 ) — Foreign tax (2.6 ) — — Return-to-provision (2.8 ) (0.1 ) 0.2 Other (0.1 ) 2.0 1.1 Effective tax rate (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder) (1) (68.4 )% 9.3 % 26.3 % Less: change in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder (1) : U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit 0.3 (0.1 ) — Export sales exclusion/manufacturer's deduction (5.8 ) (0.3 ) (0.2 ) Change in valuation allowance (4) 54.1 (74.3 ) — Return-to-provision 2.4 — (0.7 ) Imputed interest 3.1 — (1.3 ) Other 1.0 0.1 1.3 Total change in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder (1) 55.1 % (74.6 )% (0.9 )% Effective tax rate (13.3 )% (65.3 )% 25.4 % ____________________ (1) The Company is obligated to remit to the affiliate of the former stockholder 85% of any realized cash savings in U.S. Federal income tax, California franchise tax and certain other related tax benefits (see Note 2). (2) Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period presentation to conform to current period presentation. (3) The Company's policy for accounting for investment tax credits is to recognize the income tax benefit in the year that the credit is generated. (4) See below for a further discussion of the change in valuation allowance. (5) In October 2013, the Company received correspondence from the California Franchise Tax Board ("FTB") indicating that its California research and development ("R&D") credits for the years under audit would be accepted as originally filed on the Company's income tax returns. As a result, the Company recognized approximately $1.3 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for this period during the three months ended December 31, 2013. Additionally, during the three months ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized approximately $2.8 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for its California R&D credits related to the years 2008 through 2012. (6) The revaluation of deferred tax assets resulted from changes in the Company's state tax rates.
Tax effects of temporary differences in deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities	The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to a significant portion of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are presented below (in thousands). December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Tax Basis Increase (pursuant to Stockholder's Tax Agreement) $ 148,455 $ 189,933 Stock-based compensation (1) 33,375 33,272 Accrued liabilities 12,573 20,771 Net operating loss carryover 131,791 117,745 Film development basis 90,654 88,850 Research and development credit 30,578 28,252 Deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction 31,637 — Other 35,583 20,961 Deferred tax assets 514,646 499,784 Less: Valuation allowance (386,631 ) (364,244 ) Deferred tax assets (net of valuation allowance) 128,015 135,540 Deferred tax liabilities: Film basis and other intangible assets (net of amortization) (2)(3) (137,858 ) (151,125 ) Other (7,935 ) (1,124 ) Deferred tax liabilities (145,793 ) (152,249 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (17,778 ) $ (16,709 ) ____________________ (1) Includes the portion of film inventory amortization expense attributable to stock-based compensation. (2) Includes capitalizable stock-based compensation. (3) A portion of the deferred tax liability relates to indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Reconciliation of the balance of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties	A tabular reconciliation of the balance of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , is presented below (in thousands): Accrued Income Taxes Payable to Former Stockholder Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 22,053 $ 687 $ 22,740 Increases related to prior year tax positions 717 — 717 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (7,666 ) (7 ) (7,673 ) Decreases related to settlements (2,015 ) — (2,015 ) Increases related to current year positions 1,138 100 1,238 Decreases related to current year positions (312 ) — (312 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 13,915 $ 780 $ 14,695 Increases related to prior year tax positions 351 — 351 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (1,426 ) (19 ) (1,445 ) Decreases related to lapses of statutes of limitations — (423 ) (423 ) Increases related to current year positions 762 — 762 Decreases related to current year positions (193 ) — (193 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 13,409 $ 338 $ 13,747 Increases related to prior year tax positions 99 423 522 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (270 ) — (270 ) Increases related to current year positions 555 — 555 Decreases related to current year positions (100 ) — (100 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 (1) $ 13,693 $ 761 $ 14,454 ____________________ (1) The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015 that, if realized, would affect the Company's effective tax rate is $13.9 million .

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of future minimum lease commitments and sublease rental income	Future minimum payments and receipts due under non-cancelable operating leases consisted of the following as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Operating Lease Commitments Sublease Rental Income 2016 $ 28,844 $ 3,939 2017 27,733 4,649 2018 25,557 4,894 2019 22,717 4,843 2020 and thereafter 257,779 10,712 Total $ 362,630 $ 29,037

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation, Allocation and Classification in Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of impact of stock options and restricted stock awards on net income	The impact of stock options (including stock appreciation rights) and restricted stock awards on net income (excluding amounts capitalized) for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 2013 Total stock-based compensation $ 21,156 $ 19,302 $ 18,531 Tax impact (1) — (1,795 ) (4,874 ) Reduction in net income, net of tax $ 21,156 $ 17,507 $ 13,657 ____________________ (1) For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, tax impact was determined at the Company's combined effective tax rate, which includes the statements of operations line item "Increase/decrease in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder" (see Note 13). However, for the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company's combined effective tax rate was (68.4)% and, as a result of the negative rate, the Company determined that it would not be meaningful to present a tax impact for the current year.
Schedule of restricted stock award activity under the Omnibus Plans	The following table summarizes information about restricted stock award activity under the Omnibus Plans (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Restricted Stock Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Outstanding at beginning of period 5,382 $ 23.55 5,182 $ 24.26 5,121 $ 22.90 Granted 2,360 $ 22.36 1,825 $ 23.07 1,602 $ 28.19 Vested (1,226 ) $ 22.10 (1,103 ) $ 23.51 (1,199 ) $ 24.16 Forfeited (1,075 ) $ 24.99 (522 ) $ 29.01 (342 ) $ 22.74 Balance at end of year 5,441 $ 23.08 5,382 $ 23.55 5,182 $ 24.26
Schedule of restricted stock awards, vesting subject to performance criteria	The following table summarizes by year of grant the number of restricted stock awards for which vesting is subject to the achievement of performance criteria, as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Year of Grant Performance- Based (1) 2015 664 2014 515 2013 301 2012 556 Total 2,036 ____________________ (1) The performance-based awards have been included herein based on the maximum number of shares that may vest.
Schedule of stock option/stock appreciation rights activity under Omnibus plans	The following table summarizes information about stock option/stock appreciation rights activity under the Omnibus Plans (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Outstanding at beginning of period 4,545 $ 29.64 5,814 $ 29.53 6,919 $ 29.54 Options exercised (7 ) $ 25.34 (486 ) $ 28.00 (496 ) $ 28.29 Options expired/canceled (278 ) $ 30.22 (783 ) $ 29.85 (609 ) $ 30.66 Balance at end of year 4,260 $ 29.61 4,545 $ 29.64 5,814 $ 29.53
Schedule of outstanding and exercisable options	The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2015 : Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices per Share Number Outstanding (in thousands) Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years) Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share Number Exercisable (in thousands) Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share $19.29-$23.85 28 3.20 $ 21.68 28 $ 21.68 $24.28-$27.35 1,128 3.61 $ 24.81 1,062 $ 24.71 $28.10-$31.16 1,168 1.95 $ 28.56 1,168 $ 28.56 $31.37-$32.86 1,221 2.76 $ 31.74 1,221 $ 31.74 $35.30-$43.46 715 4.81 $ 35.57 715 $ 35.57 Total 4,260 3.11 $ 29.61 4,194 $ 29.66

Concentrations of Risk (Tables)

Concentrations of Risk (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Revenue by film and other	The following table presents revenues (which are included in the Feature Film and Consumer Products segments) for each film that contributed 10% or more of revenues during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Home $ 132,748 How to Train Your Dragon 2 * $ 159,767 The Croods * 76,247 $ 140,345 Rise of the Guardians * * 77,348 Madagascar 3 * * 95,152 ____________________ * Title did not contribute more than 10% of revenues during the respective year.

Segment and Geographic Inform48

Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of reportable segments and reconciliations of total segment profit	Information on the reportable segments and a reconciliation of total segment revenues and segment gross profit to consolidated financial statements are presented below (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues Feature Films $ 520,102 $ 453,475 $ 500,112 Television Series and Specials 228,132 102,962 105,950 Consumer Products 86,501 64,817 67,352 New Media 72,774 49,028 11,379 All Other 8,354 14,341 22,123 Total consolidated revenues $ 915,863 $ 684,623 $ 706,916 Segment gross profit (loss) (1) Feature Films $ 190,517 $ (89,401 ) $ 203,303 Television Series and Specials 84,523 6,667 23,119 Consumer Products (3) 29,863 23,697 28,382 New Media 41,102 17,905 2,349 All Other 5,947 (4,980 ) (40 ) Total segment gross profit (loss) $ 351,952 $ (46,112 ) $ 257,113 Reconciliation to consolidated (loss) income before income taxes: Selling and marketing expenses (2) 6,015 11,630 6,004 General and administrative expenses 332,736 262,013 184,631 Product development expenses 4,655 5,217 3,347 Change in fair value of contingent consideration — (16,500 ) 1,500 Other operating income (7,893 ) (8,429 ) (14,709 ) Non-operating expenses (income), net 50,657 (227,634 ) (5,455 ) Loss from equity method investees 15,491 13,808 6,891 Total consolidated (loss) income before income taxes $ (49,709 ) $ (86,217 ) $ 74,904 ____________________ (1) The Company defines segment gross profit as segment revenues less segment costs of revenues (which is comprised of costs of revenues and certain costs classified as a component of "selling and marketing" in its statements of operations). (2) Represents certain selling and marketing expenses that are not included as a component of segment gross profit due to the general nature of such expenses. (3) During the quarter ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an incremental expense of $7.0 million related to its retail development business initiatives.
Schedule of goodwill	The following table presents goodwill for each of the Company's reportable segments (in thousands): Feature Films Television Series and Specials Consumer Products New Media Total Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 43,995 $ 6,111 $ 10,999 $ — $ 61,105 Acquisition of ATV — — — 118,189 118,189 Balance as of December 31, 2013 43,995 6,111 10,999 118,189 179,294 Acquisitions — — 1,220 10,154 11,374 Balance as of December 31, 2014 and 2015 $ 43,995 $ 6,111 $ 12,219 $ 128,343 $ 190,668

Earnings Per Share Data (Tables

Earnings Per Share Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of basic and diluted net income per share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net (loss) income per share (in thousands, except per share amounts): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Numerator: Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. $ (54,806 ) $ (309,614 ) $ 55,084 Denominator: Weighted average common shares and denominator for basic calculation: Weighted average common shares outstanding 85,960 84,875 84,104 Less: Unvested restricted stock (119 ) (104 ) (110 ) Denominator for basic calculation 85,841 84,771 83,994 Weighted average effects of dilutive stock-based compensation awards: Employee stock options and stock appreciation rights — — 87 Restricted stock awards — — 1,212 Denominator for diluted calculation 85,841 84,771 85,293 Net (loss) income per share—basic $ (0.64 ) $ (3.65 ) $ 0.66 Net (loss) income per share—diluted $ (0.64 ) $ (3.65 ) $ 0.65
Weighted average number of options used to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards and equity awards	The following table sets forth (in thousands) the weighted average number of options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards and equity awards subject to performance conditions which were not included in the calculation of diluted per share amounts because the effects would be anti-dilutive: 2015 (1) 2014 (1) 2013 Options to purchase shares of common stock and restricted stock awards 564 1,378 1,744 Stock appreciation rights — — 4,030 Total 564 1,378 5,774 ____________________ (1) Due to the Company's loss for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, all potential common stock equivalents are anti-dilutive.
Number of equity awards that are contingently issuable	The following table sets forth (in thousands) the number of equity awards that are contingently issuable (assuming the required performance conditions had been satisfied as of the dates shown in the table) and that could potentially dilute earnings per share in future periods provided that the Company has net income: 2015 2014 2013 Restricted stock awards 1,272 1,366 763

Quarterly Financial Informati50

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Unaudited quarterly financial statements	The unaudited quarterly financial statements have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited financial statements, and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments, consisting of only normal and recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results of operations for such periods (in thousands, except per share data): Quarter Ended March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 (unaudited) 2015 Revenues $ 166,530 $ 170,782 $ 259,216 $ 319,335 Costs of revenues 106,165 99,939 151,366 168,816 Segment gross profit 53,576 60,593 98,613 139,170 (Loss) income before income taxes (53,490 ) (37,277 ) (1,564 ) 42,622 Net (loss) income (55,890 ) (39,039 ) (4,044 ) 45,009 Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (54,777 ) (38,583 ) (3,519 ) 42,073 Basic net (loss) income per share $ (0.64 ) $ (0.45 ) $ (0.04 ) $ 0.49 Diluted net (loss) income per share $ (0.64 ) $ (0.45 ) $ (0.04 ) $ 0.48 2014 Revenues $ 147,241 $ 122,277 $ 180,861 $ 234,244 Costs of revenues (1) 156,398 75,617 103,719 345,379 Segment gross (loss) profit (1) (13,448 ) 34,745 72,041 (139,450 ) (Loss) income before income taxes (2) (64,883 ) (13,327 ) 14,451 (22,458 ) Net (loss) income (3) (42,416 ) (15,928 ) 11,864 (261,841 ) Net (loss) income attributable to DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (42,936 ) (15,387 ) 11,928 (263,219 ) Basic net (loss) income per share $ (0.51 ) $ (0.18 ) $ 0.14 $ (3.08 ) Diluted net (loss) income per share $ (0.51 ) $ (0.18 ) $ 0.14 $ (3.08 ) ____________________ (1) During the quarters ended March 31, 2014, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges and write-downs of film and other inventory costs totaling $57.1 million , $2.1 million and $212.7 million , respectively (see Note 6). (2) During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $43.4 million of employee termination costs in connection with its 2015 Restructuring Plan (see Note 24). (3) During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against certain of its deferred tax assets (see Note 13).

Valuation and Qualifying Acco51

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves [Abstract]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Sales Returns Reserves	The following is a summary of the valuation and qualifying accounts included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Operations (1) Deductions (2) Balance at End of Year Trade accounts receivable and Receivables from distributors Allowance for doubtful accounts 2015 $ 6,614 $ 2,200 $ (4,825 ) $ 3,989 2014 $ 6,046 $ 6,558 $ (5,990 ) $ 6,614 2013 $ 2,581 $ 3,465 $ — $ 6,046 Sales returns reserves 2015 $ 15,271 $ 11,228 $ (16,599 ) $ 9,900 2014 $ 23,302 $ 19,785 $ (27,816 ) $ 15,271 2013 $ 13,064 $ 31,797 $ (21,559 ) $ 23,302 ____________________ (1) Sales returns reserves are charged against revenues and are related to the distribution of non-theatrical content and direct-to-video product. (2) For Allowance for doubtful accounts, represents reductions to the allowance for bad debt write-offs. For Sales returns reserves, represents reductions to the reserve for actual returns.
Valuation Allowance	Balance at Beginning of Year Decreases to Valuation Allowance Charged to Operations Balance at End of Year Deferred tax assets Valuation allowance 2015 $ 364,244 $ (1,279 ) $ 23,666 $ 386,631 2014 (1) $ 25,265 $ (1,432 ) $ 340,411 $ 364,244 2013 $ 28,749 $ (3,342 ) $ (142 ) $ 25,265 ____________________ (1) See Note 13 for a discussion of changes in the valuation allowance related to the Company's deferred tax assets during the year ended December 31, 2014.

Restructuring and Related Cha52

Restructuring and Related Charges (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of incurred charges for Restructuring Plan	For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company incurred charges for the Company's 2015 Restructuring Plan as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Employee termination costs $ 2,394 $ 43,393 Relocation and other employee-related costs 6,459 — Lease obligations and related charges 1,319 — Accelerated depreciation and amortization charges 20,132 — Film and other inventory write-offs — 155,452 Other contractual obligations — 11,229 Total restructuring charges $ 30,304 $ 210,074 The following table represents a rollforward of the liability incurred for employee termination benefits (excluding stock-based compensation) in connection with the 2015 Restructuring Plan (in thousands): Balance at Beginning of Year Costs Incurred Changes in Estimate (1) Payments and Other Balance at End of Year 2015 $ 36,808 $ 10,286 $ (7,475 ) $ (27,650 ) $ 11,969 2014 $ — $ 36,808 $ — $ — $ 36,808 ____________________ (1) During the year ended December 31, 2015, changes in estimate were primarily a result of decreases in severance liability due to a higher number of employees deciding to relocate and the Company's ability to reduce severance payments to former employees who obtain subsequent employment during their respective severance periods.

Description of Business (Detail

Description of Business (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 11, 2014
Fox [Member] | Distribution Arrangement [Member]
Business Operations [Line Items]
Distribution arrangement, output term (in years)	5 years
Period after U.S. home video release that output term will terminate	1 year
Paramount [Member] | Distribution Arrangement [Member]
Business Operations [Line Items]
Distribution arrangement, exploitation period	16 years
ATV Joint Venture [Member] | Hearst Corporation [Member]
Business Operations [Line Items]
Equity interest in joint venture		25.00%

Summary of Significant Accoun54

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)joint_venture	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)joint_venture	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 11, 2014	Dec. 31, 2004USD ($)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cost And Equity Method Investment, Fair Value		$ 0	$ 0
Percentage of cash and cash equivalents held by Joint Ventures		58.00%	58.00%
Number of Joint Ventures holding significant cash and cash equivalents | joint_venture		2	2
Restricted cash related to ATV Joint Venture		$ 40,000	$ 40,000	$ 25,244,000
Other-than-temporary investment losses recorded			0	0	$ 0
Senior unsecured notes		300,000,000	300,000,000	300,000,000
Interest income			4,600,000	4,600,000	4,200,000
Cost-method investments, impairment charges			6,400,000	17,100,000
Capital contributions from non-controlling interest holders	$ 15,000,000	$ 25,000,000	$ 40,000,000	0	0
Consolidating entity, ownership percentage		80.00%	80.00%
Consolidating entity, ownership percentage after additional interest holder contributions		64.00%	64.00%
Equity method investment, impairment charge			$ 5,100,000
Period from first capitalization of costs film or television series/specials must be set for production before remaining costs are expensed			3 years
Maximum period for ultimate revenue estimates (in years)			10 years
Marketing and advertising expense			$ 23,500,000	31,100,000	14,900,000
Proceeds from sale of a technology project			$ 0	0	6,377,000
Initial tax basis increase from related party transaction							$ 1,610,000,000
Potential reduction in taxable income due to tax basis increase from related party transaction							$ 595,000,000
Percentage the company is obligated to remit to an affiliate of the former stockholder			85.00%
Goodwill impairment			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Minimum [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Useful life of definite lived intangible assets (in years)			2 years
Maximum [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Useful life of definite lived intangible assets (in years)			15 years
ATV Joint Venture [Member] | Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Joint venture, ownership percentage				75.00%
Joint venture, initial restricted cash contribution		$ 25,000,000	$ 25,000,000
Restricted cash related to ATV Joint Venture		$ 0	$ 0
J Ward Production [Member] | Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Joint venture, ownership percentage		50.00%	50.00%
Hearst Corporation [Member] | Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Joint venture, ownership percentage						25.00%
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Equity method investment by third party, ownership percentage			54.55%
Distribution Arrangement [Member] | Paramount [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distribution fee			8.00%
Distribution Arrangement [Member] | ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distribution fee			8.00%
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Trade account receivable		$ 142,700,000	$ 142,700,000	$ 85,100,000
Unamortized discounts		14,300,000	$ 14,300,000	5,100,000
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Receivable with imputed interest, effective yield (interest rate)			3.00%
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Receivable with imputed interest, effective yield (interest rate)			14.00%
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		308,000,000	$ 308,000,000
Senior unsecured notes		$ 300,000,000	$ 300,000,000	$ 300,000,000
Theatrical And Home Video Gross Receipts [Member] | Distribution Arrangement [Member] | Fox [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distribution fee			8.00%
Pay Television And Video On Demand [Member] | Distribution Arrangement [Member] | Fox [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distribution fee			6.00%
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Unrealized gains or losses associated with investments			$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun55

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property, Plant and Equipment (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Buildings [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	40 years
Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	10 years
Minimum [Member] | Furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	5 years
Minimum [Member] | Computer hardware, software and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	2 years
Maximum [Member] | Furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Computer hardware, software and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life (in years)	5 years

Distribution and Servicing Ar56

Distribution and Servicing Arrangements - (Details) - Distribution Arrangement [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015animated_film
Paramount [Member]
Distribution And Servicing Arrangements [Line Items]
Distribution fee	8.00%
Number of new animated feature films required under Paramount agreements	13
Period in which third party can distribute animated films after general theatrical release (in years)	16 years
Fox [Member]
Distribution And Servicing Arrangements [Line Items]
Distribution arrangement, output term (in years)	5 years
DWA change in control provision, outstanding equity securities	35.00%
Termination, change in ownership, acquisition by qualifying entity	35.00%
Period of time in which written notice must be delivered to other party (in days)	90 days
Earliest date from time in which notice was delivered to actual contract termination (in years)	1 year
Theatrical And Home Video Gross Receipts [Member] | Fox [Member]
Distribution And Servicing Arrangements [Line Items]
Distribution fee	8.00%
Pay Television And Video On Demand [Member] | Fox [Member]
Distribution And Servicing Arrangements [Line Items]
Distribution fee	6.00%
Pre-existing Arrangements [Member] | Fox [Member]
Distribution And Servicing Arrangements [Line Items]
Distribution fee	8.00%

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details)		Dec. 11, 2014USD ($)	May. 03, 2013USD ($)	May. 20, 2014USD ($)business	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)		Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)		Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)		Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	May. 02, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012USD ($)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Goodwill					$ 190,668,000				$ 190,668,000								$ 190,668,000	$ 190,668,000		$ 179,294,000	$ 61,105,000
Revenues					319,335,000	$ 259,216,000	$ 170,782,000	$ 166,530,000	234,244,000		$ 180,861,000		$ 122,277,000		$ 147,241,000		915,863,000	684,623,000		706,916,000
Net (loss) income					$ 45,009,000	$ (4,044,000)	$ (39,039,000)	$ (55,890,000)	(261,841,000)	[1]	11,864,000	[1]	$ (15,928,000)	[1]	$ (42,416,000)	[1]	(53,964,000)	$ (308,321,000)		$ 55,723,000
Sensitivity analysis, hypothetical discount rate																		1.00%		1.00%
Change in fair value of contingent consideration																	$ 0	$ (16,500,000)		$ 1,500,000
Big Frame and Felix-the-Cat Rights [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of businesses acquired | business				2
Cash payment				$ 34,800,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Intangible assets				22,300,000
Goodwill				$ 11,400,000
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash payment			$ 33,460,000
Estimated contingent consideration		$ 0	95,000,000								$ 86,800,000									96,500,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	[2]		1,340,000
Trade receivables	[2],[3]		1,279,000
Prepaid and other assets	[2]		434,000
Productions costs	[2]		612,000
Property, plant and equipment	[2]		183,000
Intangible assets	[2]		12,900,000
Total identified assets acquired	[2]		16,748,000
Accounts payable	[2]		655,000
Deferred revenue	[2]		2,057,000
Deferred tax liabilities, net	[2]		3,765,000
Total liabilities assumed	[2]		6,477,000
Net identified assets acquired	[2]		10,271,000
Goodwill	[2],[4]		118,189,000
Total consideration	[2]		128,460,000
Acquired receivables, gross contractual amounts due			1,300,000
Acquired receivables deemed uncollectible			$ 0
Transaction costs for financial advisory, legal, accounting, tax and consulting services																				500,000
Revenues																				11,400,000
Net (loss) income																				$ (2,000,000)
Contingent consideration arrangement with former shareholders, term (in years)			2 years
Maximum contingent consideration that may be earned			$ 117,000,000
Fixed payment amount in lieu of contingent consideration from Merger Agreement		$ 80,000,000
Change in fair value of contingent consideration									$ 6,800,000									$ 16,500,000
Measurement Period Adjustment [Member] | AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Decrease to goodwill																			$ 900,000
Change in fair value of estimated contingent consideration																			500,000
Decrease in deferred tax liabilities																			$ 400,000
Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Discount rate			8.50%
Volatility rate			32.60%
Probability adjusted earnings in 2014			$ 25,000,000
Probability adjusted earnings in 2015			$ 41,000,000
Sensitivity analysis, hypothetical discount rate			15.00%
Sensitivity analysis, hypothetical volatility rate			20.00%
Change in fair value of contingent consideration after change in discount rate			$ 90,500,000
Change in fair value of contingent consideration after change in volatility rate			$ 103,500,000
[1]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against certain of its deferred tax assets (see Note 13).
[2]	Measurement period adjustments include a $0.9 million decrease in goodwill, which resulted from changes in the fair value of the estimated contingent consideration of $0.5 million, as well as a decrease to deferred tax liabilities of $0.4 million.
[3]	Gross contractual amounts due total $1.3 million and, of this amount, no amounts are deemed to be uncollectible.
[4]	The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of ATV is not deductible for tax purposes.

Film and Other Inventory Cost58

Film and Other Inventory Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In release, net of amortization:
Feature films		$ 392,186	$ 227,372	$ 392,186
Television series and specials		67,803	124,911	67,803
In production:
Feature films		206,240	308,114	206,240
Television series and specials		62,426	50,810	62,426
In development:
Feature films		88,200	99,541	88,200
Television series and specials		1,118	846	1,118
Product inventory and other	[1]	9,917	8,860	9,917
Total film, television and other inventory costs, net		827,890	820,454	827,890
Physical Inventory		6,700	$ 6,700	$ 6,700
Release costs expected to be amortized over the next 12 months			43.00%
Release costs expected to be amortized over three years			79.00%
Impairment charges of film costs					$ 20,200
Sensitivity analysis, hypothetical discount rate				1.00%	1.00%
Change in fair value of contingent consideration after change in discount rate		3,400		$ 3,400	$ 1,700
Write off of capitalized production costs		97,000
Write off of capitalized development costs		58,500
Turbo [Member]
In development:
Impairment charges of film costs					13,500
Impaired Film and Other Inventory Assets [Member] | Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
In development:
Total film, television and other inventory costs, net		$ 217,200		217,200	$ 102,300
The Penguins of Madagascar And Mr. Peabody And Sherman [Member]
In development:
Impairment charges of film costs				$ 99,100
Minimum [Member] | Impaired Film and Other Inventory Assets [Member]
In development:
Discount rate used in fair value measurement			7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Estimated remaining cash flow period			10 years	10 years	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Impaired Film and Other Inventory Assets [Member]
In development:
Discount rate used in fair value measurement			11.00%	11.00%	11.00%
Estimated remaining cash flow period			15 years	15 years	15 years
[1]	As of each of December 31, 2015 and 2014, this category included $6.7 million of physical inventory of certain DreamWorks Animation and Classic Media titles for distribution primarily in the home entertainment market.

Property, Plant and Equipment59

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross		$ 145,520	$ 356,030
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization		(107,755)	(175,423)
Property, plant and equipment, net		37,765	180,607
Depreciation and amortization expense (other than film amortization)		43,000	29,100	$ 29,800
Depreciation and amortization capitalized as film production costs		13,800	24,000	$ 25,500
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	[1]	8,660
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization	[1]	(2,830)
Property, plant and equipment, net	[1]	5,830
Land, buildings and improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross			221,660
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization			(81,201)
Property, plant and equipment, net			140,459
Furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross		21,258	24,336
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization		(13,780)	(13,880)
Property, plant and equipment, net		7,478	10,456
Computer hardware and software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross		108,236	99,010
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization		(91,145)	(80,342)
Property, plant and equipment, net		17,091	18,668
Construction in progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross		7,366	11,024
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization		0	0
Property, plant and equipment, net		$ 7,366	$ 11,024
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, the Company no longer owned any buildings or building improvements as a result of a sales leaseback transaction (see Note 12 for further information).

Intangible Assets - (Details)

Intangible Assets - (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Gross	$ 144,310	$ 144,310
Accumulated Amortization	(38,648)	(27,001)
Impact of foreign currency translation	(2,734)	(568)
Net	$ 102,928	$ 116,741
Character Rights [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years)	13 years 10 months 24 days	13 years 10 months 24 days
Gross	$ 99,000	$ 99,000
Accumulated Amortization	(21,150)	(15,101)
Impact of foreign currency translation	(2,734)	(568)
Net	$ 75,116	$ 83,331
Distribution Rights [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years)	11 years 2 months 12 days	11 years 2 months 12 days
Gross	$ 30,000	$ 30,000
Accumulated Amortization	(4,671)	(1,604)
Impact of foreign currency translation	0	0
Net	$ 25,329	$ 28,396
Programming Content [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years)	2 years	2 years
Gross	$ 11,200	$ 11,200
Accumulated Amortization	(11,200)	(9,333)
Impact of foreign currency translation	0	0
Net	$ 0	$ 1,867
Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years)	10 years	10 years
Gross	$ 1,410	$ 1,410
Accumulated Amortization	(356)	(216)
Impact of foreign currency translation	0	0
Net	$ 1,054	$ 1,194
Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Weighted Average Estimated Useful Life (in years)	4 years 4 months 24 days	4 years 4 months 24 days
Gross	$ 2,700	$ 2,700
Accumulated Amortization	(1,271)	(747)
Impact of foreign currency translation	0	0
Net	1,429	1,953
Character Rights [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	$ 69,400	$ 69,400

Intangible Assets - Amortizatio

Intangible Assets - Amortization Of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization of intangible and other assets	$ 11,600	$ 14,500	$ 10,500
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2,016	11,690
2,017	13,595
2,018	10,362
2,019	11,453
2,020	12,609
Total	$ 59,709

Investments in Unconsolidated62

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Apr. 03, 2013
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Total equity method investments		$ 16,814	$ 23,451
Total cost method investments	[1]	16,000	11,879
Investments in unconsolidated entities		$ 32,814	35,330
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage		45.45%		45.45%
Total equity method investments		$ 16,804	17,422
All Other [Member]
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Total equity method investments	[1]	$ 10	$ 6,029
All Other [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	[1]	50.00%
All Other [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	[1]	19.90%
[1]	Refer to Note 2 for information on the impairment of certain equity and cost method investments.

Investments in Unconsolidated63

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Loss From Equity Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss from equity method investees		$ 15,491	$ 13,808	$ 6,891
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Schedule of Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss from equity method investees	[1]	14,527	11,127	5,352
All Other [Member]
Schedule of Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss from equity method investees		$ 964	$ 2,681	$ 1,539
[1]	The Company currently records its share of ODW results on a one-month lag. Accordingly, the Company's consolidated financial statements include its share of losses incurred by ODW from the period beginning and ending one month prior to the period shown in the table.

Investments in Unconsolidated64

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Summarized Financial Information (Details) - ODW Holding Limited [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 49,427	$ 58,195
Noncurrent assets	73,340	81,178
Current liabilities	28,114	37,084
Noncurrent liabilities	233	319
Revenues	20,554	29,921	$ 21,913
Costs of revenues	13,848	27,528	20,944
Net loss	$ 34,431	$ 27,735	$ 14,232

Investments in Unconsolidated65

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Basis Difference In Equity Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Total ODW investment recorded		$ 16,814	$ 23,451
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Company's venture-level equity		42,914	46,345
Total ODW investment recorded		16,804	17,422
ODW Holding Limited [Member] | Technology and Intellectual Property Licenses [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Basis differences	[1]	(6,833)	(12,714)
ODW Holding Limited [Member] | Other [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Basis differences	[2]	$ (19,277)	$ (16,209)
[1]	Represents differences between the Company's historical cost basis and the equity basis reflected at the venture-level (the amount recorded on the balance sheet of ODW) related to the Company's contributions of technology and intellectual property licenses. These basis differences arise because the contributed assets are recorded at fair value by ODW.
[2]	Represents the Company's net contribution commitment due to ODW.

Investments in Unconsolidated66

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)in-development_film_project	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)in-development_film_project	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Apr. 03, 2013USD ($)
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 319,335	$ 259,216	$ 170,782	$ 166,530	$ 234,244	$ 180,861	$ 122,277	$ 147,241	$ 915,863	$ 684,623	$ 706,916
Other operating income									(7,893)	(8,429)	(14,709)
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	271,466				160,379				271,466	160,379
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	230,569				271,256				230,569	271,256
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	4,700				7,100				4,700	7,100
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts (see Note 9 for related party amounts)	$ 1,100				$ 19,000				1,100	19,000
Distribution Arrangement [Member] | ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 6,200	17,400	16,300
ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	45.45%								45.45%			45.45%
Equity method investment, cash contribution commitment												$ 50,000
Cash funded to date	$ 17,000								$ 17,000
Estimated aggregate value of non-cash contributions												$ 100,000
Value of non-cash contributions satisfied	44,100								44,100
Remaining cash contribution commitment to be paid	$ 33,000								$ 33,000
Payment period for remaining cash contribution commitment									2 years
Number of in-development film projects | in-development_film_project	2								2
Value of consulting and training services to be rendered	$ 6,600								$ 6,600
Non-Cash Contributions [Member] | ODW Holding Limited [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Revenues											7,800
Other operating income									$ (6,300)	$ (8,400)	$ (8,100)

Accrued Liabilities (Details)

Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Employee compensation	$ 85,616	$ 67,084
Participations and residuals	46,562	50,646
Interest payable	8,069	7,951
Deferred rent	10,446	11,049
Other accrued liabilities	48,972	53,487
Total accrued liabilities	199,665	$ 190,217
Accrued participation and residual costs estimated to pay over the next 12 months	$ 21,700

Deferred Revenue and Other Ad68

Deferred Revenue and Other Advances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred revenue and other advances		$ 74,659	$ 33,895
Deferred Revenue [Member]
Deferred revenue and other advances	[1]	25,035	1,074
Deferred revenue and other advances, amounts earned	[1]	29,082	13,186	$ 23,350
Strategic Alliance/Development Advances [Member]
Deferred revenue and other advances	[2]	1,826	1,667
Deferred revenue and other advances, amounts earned	[2]	32,319	30,741	31,622
Amount capitalized as offset to property, plant and equipment		15,600	10,000	17,700
Amount capitalized as offset to other assets		5,000	4,400	1,600
Amount capitalized as offset to prepaid assets		1,600	6,900	2,600
Amount recorded as an offset to operating expenses		2,100	2,400	1,400
Other [Member]
Deferred revenue and other advances	[3],[4]	47,798	31,154
Deferred revenue and other advances, amounts earned	[3],[4]	$ 72,421	58,339	$ 62,083
Amount recorded as an offset of film and other inventory costs			$ 14,000
[1]	Deferred revenue consists of those arrangements related to the licensing of content for distribution in the home entertainment, television and new media markets.
[2]	The Company has strategic alliances with various technology companies pursuant to which the companies are permitted to promote themselves as DreamWorks Animation's preferred technology provider in exchange for advancing the Company specified annual amounts. In addition, under the agreements, the Company makes purchases of the technology companies' equipment. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, of the total amounts earned against the "Strategic Alliance/Development Advances," $15.6 million, $10.0 million and $17.7 million, respectively, were capitalized as an offset to property, plant and equipment. Additionally, during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, of the total amounts earned, $5.0 million, $4.4 million and $1.6 million, respectively, were recorded as a reduction to other assets. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, $1.6 million, $6.9 million and $2.6 million, respectively, were recorded as a reduction to prepaid expenses. During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, of the total amounts earned, $2.1 million, $2.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively, were recorded as a reduction to operating expenses.
[3]	"Other" consists of all remaining arrangements that result in deferred revenue or other advances and are related to a variety of activities that result in amounts being earned to either revenues or other income.
[4]	Of the total amounts earned in "Other," for the year ended December 31, 2014, $14.0 million was recorded as a reduction to film and other inventory costs as it related to an asset sale.

Financing Arrangements (Details

Financing Arrangements (Details)		Jul. 21, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 23, 2015USD ($)arenewal_termbuilding	Feb. 20, 2015USD ($)	Aug. 14, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Feb. 19, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from lease financing obligation						$ 199,203,000	$ 0	$ 0
Proceeds received from sale of property by third party		$ 14,200,000
Sales leaseback transaction, net book value of property, plant and equipment sold		109,400,000
Deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction		88,500,000
Senior unsecured notes						300,000,000	300,000,000
Revolving credit facility						60,000,000	215,000,000
Interest incurred						33,000,000	26,500,000	13,600,000
Interest capitalized to film costs						$ 5,400,000	10,100,000	9,500,000
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount					$ 300,000,000
Stated interest rate of debt					6.875%	6.875%
Debt sold to investors, percentage of principal amount sold					100.00%
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt					$ 294,000,000
Redemption price of principle amount due to change in control, percentage						101.00%
Debt instrument, percentage redeemable, certain equity offerings						35.00%
Percentage of redeemable principal amount by Company						106.875%
Senior unsecured notes						$ 300,000,000	300,000,000
Expiration date of senior unsecured notes						Aug. 15, 2020
Interest expense						$ 16,941,000	12,316,000	2,433,000
Lease Financing Obligation [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Lease financing obligation	[1]					0	0
Interest expense	[1]					3,750,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility						$ 60,000,000	215,000,000
Expiration date of revolving credit facility						Feb. 20, 2020
Stated interest rate of credit facility						2.82%
Interest expense						$ 3,854,000	$ 2,979,000	$ 1,423,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity									$ 400,000,000
Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity				$ 450,000,000
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity, potential increase				$ 50,000,000
Available borrowing capacity						$ 390,000,000
Annual commitment fee on undrawn amounts of revolving credit facility				0.375%
Interest rate, rate spread over bank base rate				1.50%
Interest rate, rate spread over LIBOR				2.50%
Letter of credit, fronting fee				0.125%
Glendale, California Property [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of buildings sold | building			10
Number of acres sold | a			14.7
Proceeds from lease financing obligation			$ 185,000,000
Glendale Lease Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Lease financing obligation, initial annual rental payments			$ 13,200,000
Lease financing obligation, lease term			20 years
Lease financing obligation, number of consecutive renewal options available | renewal_term			4
Lease financing obligation, renewal option term			5 years
Lease financing obligation, number of renewal terms subject to fixed rent increases | renewal_term			2
Lease financing obligation, percentage of increase to annual rental payments			1.50%
Lease financing obligation, number of renewal terms subject to lease agreement terms | renewal_term			2
Unidentified Landlord [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Sales price of property		$ 215,000,000
[1]	As previously described, during the three months ended September 30, 2015, the Company's lease financing obligation was reduced to zero due to the change in classification of the sales-leaseback transaction.

Income Taxes - Domestic and For

Income Taxes - Domestic and Foreign Components of Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	[1]	Sep. 30, 2014	[1]	Jun. 30, 2014	[1]	Mar. 31, 2014	[1]	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic													$ (66,901)	$ (80,140)	$ 73,640
Foreign													17,192	(6,077)	1,264
(Loss) income before income taxes	$ 42,622	$ (1,564)	$ (37,277)	$ (53,490)	$ (22,458)		$ 14,451		$ (13,327)		$ (64,883)		$ (49,709)	$ (86,217)	$ 74,904
[1]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $43.4 million of employee termination costs in connection with its 2015 Restructuring Plan (see Note 24).

Income Taxes - Provision for In

Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current:
Federal	$ (78)	$ (479)	$ 8
State and local	179	(888)	(2,909)
Foreign	3,085	2,743	1,704
Total current provision (benefit)	3,186	1,376	(1,197)
Deferred:
Federal	1,536	185,849	27,524
State and local	(467)	34,879	(7,146)
Total deferred provision	1,069	220,728	20,378
Total provision for income taxes	$ 4,255	$ 222,104	$ 19,181

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Income Tax Rate (Details)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	[2]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
U.S. Federal statutory rate	[1]	35.00%	35.00%	[2]	35.00%
Effective tax rate	[1]	(13.30%)	(65.30%)	[2]	25.40%
Portion Including Payable To Former Stockholder [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit	[1]	6.40%	1.70%	[2]	(2.50%)
Export sales exclusion/manufacturers deduction	[1]	5.80%	0.30%	[2]	(0.20%)
Research and development credit	[1]	2.10%	0.30%	[2]	(3.60%)
Federal energy tax credit	[1],[3]	(0.00%)	(0.00%)	[2]	(2.20%)
Executive compensation	[1]	(5.40%)	(0.90%)	[2]	3.40%
Stock-based compensation	[1]	(3.60%)	(2.30%)		3.20%
Change in valuation allowance	[1],[4]	(128.00%)	(25.90%)	[2]	(0.20%)
Change in certain California unrecognized tax benefits	[1],[5]	0.00%	0.00%	[2]	(5.40%)
Revaluation of deferred tax assets	[1],[6]	1.10%	(0.20%)	[2]	(2.40%)
Foreign rate differential	[1]	19.40%	(0.30%)	[2]	(0.10%)
Corporate joint ventures	[1]	4.30%	(0.30%)	[2]	0.00%
Foreign tax	[1]	(2.60%)	0.00%	[2]	0.00%
Return-to-provision	[1]	(2.80%)	(0.10%)	[2]	0.20%
Other	[1]	(0.10%)	2.00%	[2]	1.10%
Effective tax rate (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder)	[1]	(68.40%)	9.30%	[2]	26.30%
Portion Relating To Payable To Former Stockholder [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
U.S. state taxes, net of Federal benefit	[1]	0.30%	(0.10%)	[2]	0.00%
Export sales exclusion/manufacturers deduction	[1]	(5.80%)	(0.30%)	[2]	(0.20%)
Change in valuation allowance	[1],[4]	54.10%	(74.30%)	[2]	0.00%
Return-to-provision	[1]	2.40%	0.00%	[2]	(0.70%)
Imputed interest	[1]	3.10%	0.00%	[2]	(1.30%)
Other	[1]	1.00%	0.10%	[2]	1.30%
Total change in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder	[1]	55.10%	(74.60%)	[2]	(0.90%)
[1]	The Company is obligated to remit to the affiliate of the former stockholder 85% of any realized cash savings in U.S. Federal income tax, California franchise tax and certain other related tax benefits (see Note 2).
[2]	Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period presentation to conform to current period presentation.
[3]	The Company's policy for accounting for investment tax credits is to recognize the income tax benefit in the year that the credit is generated.
[4]	See below for a further discussion of the change in valuation allowance.
[5]	In October 2013, the Company received correspondence from the California Franchise Tax Board ("FTB") indicating that its California research and development ("R&D") credits for the years under audit would be accepted as originally filed on the Company's income tax returns. As a result, the Company recognized approximately $1.3 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for this period during the three months ended December 31, 2013. Additionally, during the three months ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized approximately $2.8 million of previously established net unrecognized tax benefits for its California R&D credits related to the years 2008 through 2012.
[6]	The revaluation of deferred tax assets resulted from changes in the Company's state tax rates.

Income Taxes - Deferred Assets

Income Taxes - Deferred Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets:
Tax Basis Increase (pursuant to Stockholder's Tax Agreement)		$ 148,455	$ 189,933
Stock-based compensation	[1]	33,375	33,272
Accrued liabilities		12,573	20,771
Net operating loss carryover		131,791	117,745
Film development basis		90,654	88,850
Research and development credit		30,578	28,252
Deferred gain on sale-leaseback transaction		31,637	0
Other		35,583	20,961
Deferred tax assets		514,646	499,784
Less: Valuation allowance		(386,631)	(364,244)
Deferred tax assets (net of valuation allowance)		128,015	135,540
Deferred tax liabilities:
Film basis and other intangible assets (net of amortization)	[2],[3]	(137,858)	(151,125)
Other		(7,935)	(1,124)
Deferred tax liabilities		(145,793)	(152,249)
Net deferred tax liabilities		$ (17,778)	$ (16,709)
[1]	Includes the portion of film inventory amortization expense attributable to stock-based compensation.
[2]	A portion of the deferred tax liability relates to indefinite-lived intangible assets.
[3]	Includes capitalizable stock-based compensation.

Income Taxes - Reconciliation74

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 13,747		$ 14,695	$ 22,740
Increases related to prior year tax positions	522		351	717
Decreases related to prior year tax positions	(270)		(1,445)	(7,673)
Decreases related to settlements				(2,015)
Decreases related to lapses of statutes of limitations			(423)
Increases related to current year positions	555		762	1,238
Decreases related to current year positions	(100)		(193)	(312)
Ending balance	14,454	[1]	13,747	14,695
Accrued Income Taxes [Member]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	13,409		13,915	22,053
Increases related to prior year tax positions	99		351	717
Decreases related to prior year tax positions	(270)		(1,426)	(7,666)
Decreases related to settlements				(2,015)
Decreases related to lapses of statutes of limitations			0
Increases related to current year positions	555		762	1,138
Decreases related to current year positions	(100)		(193)	(312)
Ending balance	13,693	[1]	13,409	13,915
Portion Relating To Payable To Former Stockholder [Member]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	338		780	687
Increases related to prior year tax positions	423		0	0
Decreases related to prior year tax positions	0		(19)	(7)
Decreases related to settlements				0
Decreases related to lapses of statutes of limitations			(423)
Increases related to current year positions	0		0	100
Decreases related to current year positions	0		0	0
Ending balance	$ 761	[1]	$ 338	$ 780
[1]	The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015 that, if realized, would affect the Company's effective tax rate is $13.9 million.

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Percentage the company is obligated to remit to an affiliate of the former stockholder			85.00%
Recognized tax benefit recorded			$ (4,255)	$ (222,104)	$ (19,181)
Decrease in payable to former stockholder	$ 252,600
Payable to former stockholder	10,455		20,776	10,455
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate			13,900
Portion Including Payable To Former Stockholder [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued	700	$ 1,300	800	700	1,300
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforward			$ 292,500
Beginning expiration date of operating loss carryforwards			Dec. 31, 2019
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforward			$ 97,000
Beginning expiration date of operating loss carryforwards			Dec. 31, 2016
Foreign [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforward			$ 131,400
Federal Research and Development and Energy Tax Credits [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Beginning expiration date of loss carryforwards			Dec. 31, 2029
Total tax credits			$ 18,700
Research and Development [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Total tax credits			$ 30,600
Foreign Tax Credits [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Beginning expiration date of loss carryforwards			Dec. 31, 2016
Total tax credits			$ 10,700
Research and Development Credits [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Recognized tax benefit recorded		2,800
Research and Development Credits [Member] | Settlement with Taxing Authority [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Recognized tax benefit recorded		1,300
Payable to Former Stockholder [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Payable to former stockholder	10,500			10,500
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued	200	$ 300	$ 400	$ 200	$ 300
US [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Valuation allowance recorded against certain deferred tax assets	$ 338,900

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
UMG [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party transaction, cash advance received	$ 4.3	$ 5

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Lease expense	$ 15,300	$ 11,600	$ 8,100
Operating Lease Commitments
2,016	28,844
2,017	27,733
2,018	25,557
2,019	22,717
2020 and thereafter	257,779
Total	362,630
Sublease Rental Income
2,016	3,939
2,017	4,649
2,018	4,894
2,019	4,843
2020 and thereafter	10,712
Total	$ 29,037

Commitments and Contingencies78

Commitments and Contingencies - Commitments (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014lawsuit	Oct. 31, 2014lawsuit	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Remaining minimum purchase obligation			$ 11.7
Talent [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation, balance payable over next five years			$ 28.6
Noncancelable talent commitments term			5 years
Prepaid Expenses [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Certain capital assets purchased to be resold			$ 6.3
Other Assets [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Certain capital assets purchased to be resold			$ 12
Unfavorable Regulatory Action [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Loss contingency, new claims filed | lawsuit	2
Unfavorable Regulatory Action [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Antitrust Class Action [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Loss contingency, new claims filed | lawsuit		3

Stockholders' Equity (Details)

Stockholders' Equity (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)voteclass$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)shares
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of classes of stock | class	2
Number of preferred shares authorized	100,000,000
Value of shares authorized to be repurchased | $	$ 150,000,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount | $	$ 100,000,000
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized (in shares)	350,000,000	350,000,000
Common stock, par value per share | $ / shares	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Number of votes per share | vote	1
Stock repurchased during period, shares	0	0	1,300,000
Stock repurchased during period, value | $			$ 25,000,000
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized (in shares)	150,000,000	150,000,000
Common stock, par value per share | $ / shares	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Number of votes per share | vote	15

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]
Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution as a percent of employees contribution	50.00%
Defined contribution plan, maximum annual contribution per employee, percent	4.00%
Defined contribution plan, cost recognized	$ 3	$ 3.1	$ 2.8
Multi-employer pension plan, funded status (as a percent)		82.00%
Multi-employer pension plan, contributions	$ 2.8	$ 2.6	$ 2.3

Stock-Based Compensation - Narr

Stock-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended			40 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Apr. 20, 2011	Apr. 21, 2011shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Reduction in number of awards available, multiplier				1.6
Number of shares authorized | shares					12,000,000
Shares available for future grants of equity awards under the 2008 Omnibus Plan | shares	9,700,000
Stock-based compensation, allocation of recognized period costs, capitalized amount	$ 10.3	$ 14.2	$ 17.2
Stock-based compensation, nonvested awards, total compensation cost not yet recognized	$ 66.5
Stock-based compensation, nonvested awards, total compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition (in years)	1 year 9 months 18 days
Intrinsic value of options exercised			2.2
Tax benefit from options exercised during year			0.8
Intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable	$ 1.4
Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options outstanding and exercisable (in years)	3 years 1 month 6 days
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total intrinsic value of vested awards	$ 27.2	25.5	33.5
Total fair value at grant of restricted stock awards that vested	$ 27.1	$ 25.9	$ 29
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Requisite service period	4 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Requisite service period	7 years
Performance Shares [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Requisite service period	1 year
Performance Shares [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Requisite service period	4 years
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period (in years)	10 years
Employee Stock Option [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	4 years
Employee Stock Option [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	7 years
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period (in years)	10 years
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	4 years
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	7 years

Stock-Based Compensation - Impa

Stock-Based Compensation - Impact of Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards on Net Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation		$ 21,156	$ 19,302		$ 18,531
Tax impact	[1]	0	(1,795)		(4,874)
Reduction in net income, net of tax		$ 21,156	$ 17,507		$ 13,657
Portion Including Payable To Former Stockholder [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Effective tax rate (combined with decrease/increase in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder)	[2]	(68.40%)	9.30%	[3]	26.30%	[3]
[1]	For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, tax impact was determined at the Company's combined effective tax rate, which includes the statements of operations line item "Increase/decrease in income tax benefit payable to former stockholder" (see Note 13). However, for the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company's combined effective tax rate was (68.4)% and, as a result of the negative rate, the Company determined that it would not be meaningful to present a tax impact for the current year.
[2]	The Company is obligated to remit to the affiliate of the former stockholder 85% of any realized cash savings in U.S. Federal income tax, California franchise tax and certain other related tax benefits (see Note 2).
[3]	Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period presentation to conform to current period presentation.

Stock-Based Compensation - Res

Stock-Based Compensation - Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Equity instrument other than options, beginning of period (in shares)	5,382	5,182	5,121
Equity instruments other than options, grants in period (in shares)	2,360	1,825	1,602
Equity instruments other than options, vested in period (in shares)	(1,226)	(1,103)	(1,199)
Equity instruments other than options, forfeited in period (in shares)	(1,075)	(522)	(342)
Equity instrument other than options, end of period (in shares)	5,441	5,382	5,182
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Weighted average grant date fair value, beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 23.55	$ 24.26	$ 22.90
Equity instruments other than options, grants in period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	22.36	23.07	28.19
Equity instruments other than options, vested in period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	22.10	23.51	24.16
Equity instruments other than options, forfeited in period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	24.99	29.01	22.74
Weighted average grant date fair value, end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 23.08	$ 23.55	$ 24.26

Stock-Based Compensation - Year

Stock-Based Compensation - Year of Grant Table (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] - shares shares in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)		5,441	5,382	5,182	5,121
Performance Based Vesting Criteria [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)	[1]	2,036
Restricted Stock Awards and Units Granted in 2015 [Member] | Performance Based Vesting Criteria [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)	[1]	664
Restricted Stock Awards and Units Granted in 2014 [Member] | Performance Based Vesting Criteria [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)	[1]	515
Restricted Stock Awards and Units Granted in 2013 [Member] | Performance Based Vesting Criteria [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)	[1]	301
Restricted Stock Awards and Units Granted in 2012 [Member] | Performance Based Vesting Criteria [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity instruments other than options (in shares)	[1]	556
[1]	The performance-based awards have been included herein based on the maximum number of shares that may vest.

Stock-Based Compensation - Stoc

Stock-Based Compensation - Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and SARs [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)	4,545	5,814	6,919
Options exercised (in shares)	(7)	(486)	(496)
Options expired/canceled (in shares)	(278)	(783)	(609)
Balance at end of year (in shares)	4,260	4,545	5,814
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options And SARs, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Weighted average exercise price per share, outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 29.64	$ 29.53	$ 29.54
Options exercised, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	25.34	28	28.29
Options expired/canceled, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	30.22	29.85	30.66
Weighted average exercise price per share, outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 29.61	$ 29.64	$ 29.53

Stock-Based Compensation - St86

Stock-Based Compensation - Stock Options by Exercise Price Range (Details) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	4,260
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	3 years 1 month 10 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 29.61
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	4,194
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 29.66
Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options outstanding and exercisable (in years)	3 years 1 month 6 days
$19.29 - $23.85 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Low exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 19.29
High exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 23.85
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	28
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	3 years 2 months 12 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 21.68
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	28
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 21.68
$24.28 - $27.35 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Low exercise price (in dollars per share)	24.28
High exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 27.35
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	1,128
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	3 years 7 months 10 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 24.81
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	1,062
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 24.71
$28.10 - $31.16 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Low exercise price (in dollars per share)	28.10
High exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 31.16
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	1,168
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	1 year 11 months 12 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 28.56
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	1,168
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 28.56
$31.37 - $32.86 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Low exercise price (in dollars per share)	31.37
High exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 32.86
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	1,221
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	2 years 9 months 4 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 31.74
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	1,221
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 31.74
$35.30 - $43.46 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Low exercise price (in dollars per share)	35.30
High exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 43.46
Options outstanding, number outstanding | shares	715
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	4 years 9 months 22 days
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 35.57
Options exercisable, number exercisable | shares	715
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)	$ 35.57

Concentrations of Risk - Featur

Concentrations of Risk - Featured Films (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 319,335	$ 259,216	$ 170,782	$ 166,530	$ 234,244	$ 180,861	$ 122,277	$ 147,241	$ 915,863	$ 684,623	$ 706,916
Sales Revenue [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Home [Member]
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 132,748
Sales Revenue [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | How to Train Your Dragon 2 [Member]
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues										$ 159,767
Sales Revenue [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | The Croods [Member]
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues										$ 76,247	$ 140,345
Sales Revenue [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Rise of the Guardians [Member]
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues											77,348
Sales Revenue [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Madagascar 3 [Member]
Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]
Revenues											$ 95,152

Concentrations of Risk (Details

Concentrations of Risk (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)agreement	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 230,569	$ 271,256
Unionized Employees Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of employees represented under bargaining agreements	38.00%
Number of agreements to which the company Is a party | agreement	3
Fox [Member] | Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Revenue derived directly from third party distributor	29.00%	31.00%	19.00%
Fox [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 95,100	$ 103,900
Paramount [Member] | Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Revenue derived directly from third party distributor	12.00%	25.00%	49.00%
Paramount [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Receivables from distributors, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 133,400	$ 146,900
Netflix [Member] | Credit Concentration Risk [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of employees represented under bargaining agreements	66.00%	49.00%
Netflix [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Revenue derived directly from third party distributor	33.00%	15.00%

Segment and Geographic Inform89

Segment and Geographic Information - (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues		$ 319,335	$ 259,216	$ 170,782	$ 166,530	$ 234,244		$ 180,861		$ 122,277		$ 147,241		$ 915,863		$ 684,623		$ 706,916
Segment Profit (Loss)		139,170	98,613	60,593	53,576	(139,450)	[1]	72,041	[1]	34,745	[1]	(13,448)	[1]	351,952	[2]	(46,112)	[2]	257,113	[2]
Selling and marketing expense	[3]													6,015		11,630		6,004
General and administrative														332,736		262,013		184,631
Product development														4,655		5,217		3,347
Change in fair value of contingent consideration														0		(16,500)		1,500
Other operating income														(7,893)		(8,429)		(14,709)
Non-operating expenses (income), net														50,657		(227,634)		(5,455)
Loss from equity method investees														15,491		13,808		6,891
Total consolidated (loss) income before income taxes		42,622	$ (1,564)	$ (37,277)	$ (53,490)	$ (22,458)	[4]	$ 14,451	[4]	$ (13,327)	[4]	$ (64,883)	[4]	(49,709)		(86,217)		74,904
Retail development business initiatives, incremental expenses incurred		$ 7,000
Feature Films [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														520,102		453,475		500,112
Segment Profit (Loss)	[2]													190,517		(89,401)		203,303
Television Series and Specials [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														228,132		102,962		105,950
Segment Profit (Loss)	[2]													84,523		6,667		23,119
Consumer Products [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														86,501		64,817		67,352
Segment Profit (Loss)	[2],[5]													29,863		23,697		28,382
New Media [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														72,774		49,028		11,379
Segment Profit (Loss)	[2]													41,102		17,905		2,349
All Other Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														8,354		14,341		22,123
Segment Profit (Loss)	[2]													5,947		(4,980)		(40)
Foreign Countries [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues														$ 438,100		$ 378,300		$ 383,800
[1]	During the quarters ended March 31, 2014, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges and write-downs of film and other inventory costs totaling $57.1 million, $2.1 million and $212.7 million, respectively (see Note 6).
[2]	The Company defines segment gross profit as segment revenues less segment costs of revenues (which is comprised of costs of revenues and certain costs classified as a component of "selling and marketing" in its statements of operations).
[3]	Represents certain selling and marketing expenses that are not included as a component of segment gross profit due to the general nature of such expenses.
[4]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $43.4 million of employee termination costs in connection with its 2015 Restructuring Plan (see Note 24).
[5]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded an incremental expense of $7.0 million related to its retail development business initiatives.

Segment and Geographic Inform90

Segment and Geographic Information Schedule of goodwill by segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	May. 03, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning of Period		$ 179,294	$ 61,105
Acquisition		11,374
Goodwill		179,294	61,105	$ 190,668
Goodwill, End of Period		190,668	179,294
Feature Films [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning of Period		43,995	43,995
Acquisition		0
Goodwill		43,995	43,995	43,995
Goodwill, End of Period		43,995	43,995
Television Series and Specials [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning of Period		6,111	6,111
Acquisition		0
Goodwill		6,111	6,111	6,111
Goodwill, End of Period		6,111	6,111
Consumer Products [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning of Period		10,999	10,999
Acquisition		1,220
Goodwill		10,999	10,999	12,219
Goodwill, End of Period		12,219	10,999
New Media [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning of Period		118,189	0
Acquisition		10,154
Goodwill		118,189	0	$ 128,343
Goodwill, End of Period		$ 128,343	118,189
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition			118,189
Goodwill	[1],[2]				$ 118,189
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member] | Feature Films [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition			0
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member] | Television Series and Specials [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition			0
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member] | Consumer Products [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition			0
AwesomenessTV, Inc. [Member] | New Media [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition			$ 118,189
[1]	Measurement period adjustments include a $0.9 million decrease in goodwill, which resulted from changes in the fair value of the estimated contingent consideration of $0.5 million, as well as a decrease to deferred tax liabilities of $0.4 million.
[2]	The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of ATV is not deductible for tax purposes.

Earnings Per Share Data - Compu

Earnings Per Share Data - Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Net (loss) income attributable to Dreamworks Animation SKG, Inc.	$ 42,073	$ (3,519)	$ (38,583)	$ (54,777)	$ (263,219)	$ 11,928	$ (15,387)	$ (42,936)	$ (54,806)	$ (309,614)	$ 55,084
Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)									85,960	84,875	84,104
Less: Unvested restricted stock (in shares)									(119)	(104)	(110)
Denominator for basic calculation (in shares)									85,841	84,771	83,994
Denominator for diluted calculation (in shares)									85,841	84,771	85,293
Net (loss) income per share—basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.49	$ (0.04)	$ (0.45)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.08)	$ 0.14	$ (0.18)	$ (0.51)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.65)	$ 0.66
Net (loss) income per share—diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ (0.04)	$ (0.45)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.08)	$ 0.14	$ (0.18)	$ (0.51)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.65)	$ 0.65
Employee Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Weighted average effects of dilutive stock-based compensation awards (in shares)									0	0	87
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Weighted average effects of dilutive stock-based compensation awards (in shares)									0	0	1,212

Earnings Per Share Data - Antid

Earnings Per Share Data - Antidilutive Securities (Details) - Outstanding Stock Awards [Member] - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	[1]	Dec. 31, 2014	[1]	Dec. 31, 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities	564		1,378		5,774
Options to Purchase Shares of Common Stock and Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities	564		1,378		1,744
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities	0		0		4,030
[1]	Due to the Company's loss for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, all potential common stock equivalents are anti-dilutive.

Earnings Per Share Data - Conti

Earnings Per Share Data - Contingently Issuable Equity Awards (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Contingently Issuable Shares [Member]
Contingently Issuable Equity Awards Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Contingently issuable equity awards	1,272	1,366	763

Quarterly Financial Informati94

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues	$ 319,335	$ 259,216	$ 170,782	$ 166,530	$ 234,244		$ 180,861		$ 122,277		$ 147,241		$ 915,863		$ 684,623		$ 706,916
Costs of revenues	168,816	151,366	99,939	106,165	345,379	[1]	103,719	[1]	75,617	[1]	156,398	[1]	526,286		681,113		416,383
Segment Profit (Loss)	139,170	98,613	60,593	53,576	(139,450)	[1]	72,041	[1]	34,745	[1]	(13,448)	[1]	351,952	[2]	(46,112)	[2]	257,113	[2]
Total consolidated (loss) income before income taxes	42,622	(1,564)	(37,277)	(53,490)	(22,458)	[3]	14,451	[3]	(13,327)	[3]	(64,883)	[3]	(49,709)		(86,217)		74,904
Net (loss) income	45,009	(4,044)	(39,039)	(55,890)	(261,841)	[4]	11,864	[4]	(15,928)	[4]	(42,416)	[4]	(53,964)		(308,321)		55,723
Net (loss) income attributable to Dreamworks Animation SKG, Inc.	$ 42,073	$ (3,519)	$ (38,583)	$ (54,777)	$ (263,219)		$ 11,928		$ (15,387)		$ (42,936)		$ (54,806)		$ (309,614)		$ 55,084
Basic net (loss) income per share	$ 0.49	$ (0.04)	$ (0.45)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.08)		$ 0.14		$ (0.18)		$ (0.51)		$ (0.64)		$ (3.65)		$ 0.66
Diluted net (loss) income per share	$ 0.48	$ (0.04)	$ (0.45)	$ (0.64)	$ (3.08)		$ 0.14		$ (0.18)		$ (0.51)		$ (0.64)		$ (3.65)		$ 0.65
Impairment and write down of film costs					$ 212,700		$ 2,100				$ 57,100
2015 Restructuring Plan [Member]
Restructuring charges													$ 2,394		$ 43,393
[1]	During the quarters ended March 31, 2014, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges and write-downs of film and other inventory costs totaling $57.1 million, $2.1 million and $212.7 million, respectively (see Note 6).
[2]	The Company defines segment gross profit as segment revenues less segment costs of revenues (which is comprised of costs of revenues and certain costs classified as a component of "selling and marketing" in its statements of operations).
[3]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $43.4 million of employee termination costs in connection with its 2015 Restructuring Plan (see Note 24).
[4]	During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against certain of its deferred tax assets (see Note 13).

Valuation and Qualifying Acco95

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year		$ 6,614		$ 6,046		$ 2,581
Charged to operations	[1]	2,200		6,558		3,465
Deductions	[2]	(4,825)		(5,990)		0
Balance at End of Year		3,989		6,614		6,046
Sales returns reserves [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year		15,271		23,302		13,064
Charged to operations	[1]	11,228		19,785		31,797
Deductions	[2]	(16,599)		(27,816)		(21,559)
Balance at End of Year		9,900		15,271		23,302
Valuation allowance [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year		364,244	[3]	25,265	[3]	28,749
Charged to operations		23,666		340,411	[3]	(142)
Decreases to Valuation Allowance		(1,279)		(1,432)	[3]	(3,342)
Balance at End of Year		$ 386,631		$ 364,244	[3]	$ 25,265	[3]
[1]	Sales returns reserves are charged against revenues and are related to the distribution of non-theatrical content and direct-to-video product.
[2]	For Allowance for doubtful accounts, represents reductions to the allowance for bad debt write-offs. For Sales returns reserves, represents reductions to the reserve for actual returns.
[3]	See Note 13 for a discussion of changes in the valuation allowance related to the Company's deferred tax assets during the year ended December 31, 2014.

Restructuring and Related Cha96

Restructuring and Related Charges (Details) - 2015 Restructuring Plan [Member] $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)employee	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 2,394	$ 43,393
Relocation and other employee-related costs	6,459	0
Lease obligations and related charges	1,319	0
Accelerated depreciation and amortization charges	20,132	0
Film and other inventory write-offs	0	155,452
Other contractual obligations	0	11,229
Total restructuring charges	$ 30,304	210,074
Cumulative number of positions eliminated | employee	500
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 10,286	36,808
Number of positions eliminated | employee	160
Payments made for restructuring charges	$ 27,650	$ 0

Restructuring and Related Cha97

Restructuring and Related Charges - Restructuring Reserves (Details) - 2015 Restructuring Plan [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Costs Incurred		$ 2,394	$ 43,393
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring reserve, beginning of period		36,808	0
Costs Incurred		10,286	36,808
Changes in Estimate(1)	[1]	(7,475)	0
Payments and Other		(27,650)	0
Restructuring reserve, end of period		$ 11,969	$ 36,808
[1]	During the year ended December 31, 2015, changes in estimate were primarily a result of decreases in severance liability due to a higher number of employees deciding to relocate and the Company's ability to reduce severance payments to former employees who obtain subsequent employment during their respective severance periods.