Elizabeth Foster / Kidscreen
Vancouver, Canada-based Thunderbird Films has appointed Matthew Berkowitzas head of development for its subsidiary Atomic Cartoons. In his new role, Berkowitz will develop and grow the studio’s slate of original properties and co-productions.
Previously, Berkowitz oversaw Arc Production’s slate and established production relationships with partners like Sony Animation, DreamWorks Animation, Amazon Studios, Lego, Zodiak Kids and Sprout. He has also held positions at Film Roman and Strike Entertainment.
Earlier this year, Thunderbird and Atomic launched Netflix original animated series Beat Bugs with co-producers Grace: A Storytelling Company and Beyond Screen Production.
Thunderbird and Atomic have also recently announced a partnership with Skybound North, a division of Skybound Entertainment. The agreement gives Thunderbird an exclusive first-look at all animated and non-animated properties being developed for TV by Skybound North in Canada.
Berkowitz’ appointment comes after Jennifer Twiner-McCarron was named president of Atomic Cartoons in June. Twinter-McCarron previously served for five years as Atomic’s head of production.