377. opium.
October 26.
9:00 pm.
The process has been relentless since Warner and Disney joined forces with a fixed idea to fragment the Lux Animation audience. Now, the ultimate alliance is divided into two factions. Firstly, Warner has felt the repercussions as some media outlets have ceased their critical coverage since Billy, using his legal team, has categorized the companies on multiple fronts, including lawsuits for various adverse situations and journalistic malpractice.
A battle for power!
On the other hand, Disney attempted to pressure Lux Animation, but their efforts were thwarted by manipulation. Billy leaked the news to the papers about ABC and Disney's failure due to high costs and overexploitation. The newspapers labeled it "the acquisition that precedes a downfall."
-We’ve shut down Disney - Sarah Robles commented, clapping hands with Billy, while Andrew Simpson, the media liaison, was by her side, and Billy stood behind them.
-Alright, alright… now let’s move on to the next scandal. We need to treat this as the final nail in the coffin. The stock market will crumble with Disney. We already have the position. We’ll announce that Miramax’s problems with Disney, and many of the precedents, might entirely block Disney’s exit. They reported their dividends in September, and there was a decline. If we add new grievances, we’ll only publish our movies in competition with Warner - Billy stated.
Given the negative outlook, what remained unspoken was that Disney’s stock would drop to a historic low of $3 if they delayed their dividend distribution until February. Billy knew this would happen. Not only with the children’s channel but also with the additional trap of Miramax’s acquisition. Mandated by Miramax’s members, a quiet negotiation would take place, followed by a public lawsuit with Jeffrey Katzenberg and raising doubts about Michael Ovitz’s hiring.
The impact would be catastrophic, which is exactly what Billy needed, as he had secretly incited others to attack the company from different fronts.
Any doubts? How to attack Warner? For now, Warner is solid. Despite its debt, it is strong enough to withstand a frontal attack. However, if Warner can be crushed in other ways, such as through its beloved Hanna-Barbera, it could create a personal victory. Perhaps that’s why he’ll first target them.
Let’s go for it!
7:00 PM.
Billy walked through the halls of the Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, accompanied by the elegantly dressed Monica Bellucci in a white dress adorned with Hawaiian flowers, while Billy sported a beach style. It was the first time Billy appreciated the warm Californian desert climate.
-Billy. –
-Billy. –
The cameras flashed intensely as the media approached Billy, and for the first time, he was seen as unusually open in conversation.
-Good evening, everyone - Billy said.
-Billy, what do you think of this film? - asked a reporter.
-It’s a children’s film. I wrote the script myself, created the classic drawings, and have a stable team with ample experience in delivering quality. I can only say that you will all love it… as many know, our market is for all audiences, but this one especially targets a younger audience, with comedy, fun, and morals - Billy replied.
-You’re adding a success - the journalist beside him commented.
-I only create successes - Billy retorted with arrogance. Nobody said anything. Since he arrived in Hollywood, there have been no failures… thus, fear and the system of errors did not apply to the young man speaking.
But there are always daring ones.
-Do you guarantee a success? - the journalist questioned.
-You already have your front page - Billy said, turning his back.
Lilo & Stitch was a hit for the following 92 minutes. The next morning, everyone sat in silence, reading the numerous reviews. Each marked a new dawn for the company, which continued to reshape the animation world. Without offense or provocation, Billy simply continued to succeed.
The space theme, addressing a general topic, was based on the affection of an author like Elvis. Part of the budget was allocated to this, with $3 million spent on acquiring the twelve songs needed for the soundtrack.
Rob Drenster from Dakota Mountain News:
An entertaining and (three cheers) modest film that avoids most of the blockbuster trimmings that have been choking animated productions in recent years. It's a breath of fresh air, with no rehashes, as Lux Animation once again revolutionizes the field, from 3D to giant robots in the Cold War, with stories featuring uniquely rare characteristics.
Ted Cho from Chicago Reader:
Smart, touching, and completely enchanting… kids will line up to see it, as will the parents.
Ransis Corliss from Time:
A dazzling and engaging treat with half a dozen Elvis Presley songs for mom and dad, and enough cheekiness (Stitch sticks his tongue in his nose and eats his boogers) to make preteens laugh, and then it's sweet and lovely for all kids.
Russell Hunt from Austin Chronicle:
This film is by no means a classic in absolute artistic terms, but as a reaffirmation of all the forgotten truths, it is a resounding success.
Jim Falk from BBC:
Touching, funny, and quirky… the most anticipated for kids this Christmas, premiering on October 30th, in a curious calendar amidst the constant horror films surrounding the season.
Bruce West from Houston Daily:
While they diligently tug at the heartstrings, Lux Animation directors continue to bravely refine their mix of strong character traits.
Eli Sanders from San Diego News:
Despite the weighty themes involved, this film remains highly entertaining, filled with Elvis songs and scenes that will make both parents and children laugh.
Jeane Horwitz from the Washington Post:
Fresh and rainbow-like as a Hawaiian sun shower at midday, Elvis is fantastic!
Daphne Wright from Toronto Star:
With its feel-good plot, superior art direction, and memorable characters, Lilo & Stitch could very well become one of those timeless Disney classics, one that will endure for decades and never lose its charm.
Randall Rodriguez from Miami Herald:
Both endearing and fun, Lilo & Stitch is proof that Disney should break its own rules more often.
….
-I’ve bought a few more - Jim Gianopulos told Billy, somewhat moved by the numerous reviews he saw around him. The result was evident with two simple stars of knowledge: the first, Jim was eager about the company's success.
-I’ve done it. Now we just need to keep moving forward. Anne mentioned there were some challenges with the animated program - Billy said.
-An initial problem. The situation will stabilize - Jim Gianopulos commented.
...