173 adjustments.
May 2
The offer made by Steve Parks and Raimon reached its destination at Paramount offices—an astonishing offer of 40 million for the creation of a Stark Trek series under the Lux Animation banner. Not far away, the offer sparked discussions among Paramount's staff, who had no prior idea of handing the series to this comics company.
The company received the notification on April 28 and responded the next day with a counteroffer of 80 million dollars. Ingeniously, Steve Parks and Raimon created an attractive proposal to ensure it wouldn't be rejected.
A broad flag to create the feeling of endearment they seek is the birth of an idea in the heads of their competitors. From there, the response will be identified with what they most desire to achieve, beyond a bonus. The motives of Steve and Raimon themselves are the goal and the challenge of securing something substantial.
Summary:
The Offer:
Under the assumption of creating cooperation between Lux Animation and Paramount, it entails a special license and the partial purchase of the Stark Trek franchise. The deal includes 40 million as part of the purchase and a guaranteed investment of 50 million for the creation of a museum and a special animated series delving into the world of Stark Trek, presenting its own cultural identity.
The Counteroffer:
As a franchise positioned for 20 years with proven fan loyalty, the cooperation of Paramount and Lux Comics proposes a special license and partial purchase of the Stark Trek franchise for 80 million dollars. The joint investment is 100 million dollars for the serialization of the franchises.
...
The two-day dialogue was leaked to the company, leading to a collective breakfast of conspiracies and the new franchise picture on papers for November 10, 1994. The new film series is expected to achieve forced success, and exposure is just another crucial means for the companies' ends. Counteroffers number 3, 5, and 6 were on the table. By May 2, 1994, the activity was effervescent, causing a stir among some fan groups and in the entertainment industry—something commonplace.
But in regional circulation, the news was out, even the zealous George Lucas raised an eyebrow at the audacity of this company.
-I'm surprised it played out exactly as you planned, - Anne Hall said, looking at the three regional and national newspapers. The damage was evident in George Lucas's eyes due to the cessation of negotiations. However, after the fiasco and the blame game, the negotiations stalled, and it seemed to be over.
-Everything was according to our plan, - said Steve Parks, in his finely tailored blue suit, adorned with a set of silk handkerchiefs. Although he liked wool, the heat of San Jose had prevented him from wearing it.
-It's magnificent how these entertainment maneuvers unfold. Do you have any new insights into Macmillan Publishing? Mr. Thomas has already submitted the papers for the Writers Foundation, and the money is earmarked. I see that this will help us with some promissory notes. Insane amounts of taxes are being paid, even when we donate to charity, - Anne remarked.
-I have them right where I want them. Although I imposed tougher conditions than Billy initially mentioned, I know he wants a strong relationship with writers and scriptwriters. I don't blame him; his ideas alone cannot be enough to create a television channel, - said Steve Parks.
To which Anne nodded, adjusting her tortoiseshell-framed glasses, and looked at Raimon, who laughed from the waiting room chair like a fool. But she couldn't help but admire him for the Machiavellian plan he had executed.
-Raimon! - Anne exclaimed.
Raimon stumbled in surprise, almost falling off the chair.
-Yes. -
-Have you discussed the situation with Billy? - Anne asked. She was aware of how Raimon called Billy every day to update him on the company's affairs. Moreover, Billy's passive language allowed Raimon to meddle more due to their existing relationship.
-Of course not. It's a surprise. Dealing with George Lucas is a mess. It's better to buy Star Wars and let Billy take charge. His talent is unparalleled, and the proposals he has are fabulous. Since Billy started using Warhammer 40k and Dungeons & Dragons, three new books, deluxe boards, and the proposal for online boards. - Raimon said, holding the latest volume of Evangelion in his hand—a powerful story that has captivated him. Even his laughter is caused by the excessive surprise of the comic and how it goes beyond his thoughts, ultimately surprising him.
Steve Parks only calmed down in the presence of the great boss, a boy with a prophetic vision. -Billy is certain that George will eventually give in. Our main goal is not Lucasfilm; it's Star Wars. -Steve Parks said.
-So... - Anne hesitated due to the lack of knowledge.
-Well, George Lucas values his company, but we value the identity we can gain from Lucasfilm. We proposed for the entirety of the company. Billy knows that creating a special effects company is cumbersome, but for Billy, having special effects is simple and only requires money, work, and contacts. We can even copy a series with the future of Star Wars. And thanks to the mistake of Lucas's receptionist, the offer relationship is not for a franchise; it's for Lucasfilm. This will subsequently unnerve Lucas by exposing George's uncertainty. We will license Star Wars or make a partial purchase of the series—a 50%-50% split on the copyright of Lucasfilm. - Steve Parks explained.
-Clearly, it's inconclusive for now. You can go and give me the news of the purchase much later. This matter gives me a terrible headache, something I dislike. - Anne said.
-Your strong stance bewilders me, Anne, but you must relax your shoulders and trust your team. - Steve Parks said, leaving the room.
Raimon followed him with some fear because there Anne was, reviewing some orders or ideas that would not be very good, like giving her more work than already budgeted.
The company was in its broadest growth, seeking a Chief Operating Officer, a television assistant, and a dedicated director to organize the TV channel. Alongside other positions such as advertising, administration, marketing, and logistics, and expanding human resources. The delivery of the four-story grand building is scheduled for July. The purchase of equipment, along with the parabolic contracts to air the television channel, as well as hiring a specialist group to create films, was the total separation— one group dedicated to movies and another to series.
-Raimon, before you go, send Felicity in here to discuss the channel matter, and please, finalize the stock deal for this week. - Anne said from her desk.
Raimon nodded, his curly but completely straight hair swaying with pleasure at Anne's words. His hefty frame moved toward the exit, magazine in hand, humming his own tune for an Evangelion song about the current changes and how to predict the next chapter, set to be distributed next month.
...
