Cooperstein Heads L.A.-Based Toonz Distribution Arm

India-based Toonz Animation has opened a new distribution division in Los Angeles that will specialize in worldwide sales of its feature films, TV series and direct-to-video animation.

The company, officially called Toonz Entertainment USA, will have an initial slate that includes Wolverine and the X-Men, Speed Racer 2, Speed Racer Classic, Mostly Ghostly and Freefonix.

Matt Cooperstein has been appointed executive VP of the new division. Cooperstein has 20 years experience in distribution and has worked for such companies as ITC Entertainment Group, Polygram Television, Universal Worldwide Television, IndieArts Entertainment and Liberation Entertainment.

‘I look forward to this challenging opportunity and I am elated to be part of one of the most respected animation houses in the world,’ says Cooperstein. ‘We already have acquired the rights to highly branded properties and will be aggressive in adding more titles in the future.’