[Chapter 303: The Pentagon and White House's Big Package]
After the official preparation of Independence Day, there was another crucial task: securing support from the U.S. government and military.
This movie, even more than The Rock, aligned perfectly with the military's themes, portraying the U.S. Armed Forces as heroic saviors of the world. More importantly, it depicted the U.S. government as brave and resolute in times of crisis, courageously shouldering responsibility and saving the earth from peril -- completely different from the usual villainous portrayals in Hollywood films.
The film's very title hinted at an ambitious idea of turning America's Independence Day into the world's Independence Day. The portrayal of the president was even made an unparalleled hero. Not only was he a mastermind strategist, but he also personally piloted a fighter jet into battle, performing daring maneuvers, playing the most pivotal role on the battlefield.
Unsurprisingly, the film was heavily criticized by reviewers as political pandering. However, Linton had no intention to change this. Having seen this formula succeed before, he understood it met audience and market expectations; risking changes made no sense.
Since the movie portrayed the U.S. government and military as heroes, even creating this larger-than-life president, seeking sponsorship from both was only natural.
After discussions with Universal Studios' Lou Wasserman and the production team, they decided to approach this on three fronts.
The first front was Linton and Michael Bay heading to the Pentagon's Hollywood liaison office to submit the script and project proposal, requesting military sponsorship and support.
The second front involved Lou Wasserman reaching out to Chris Hank, a White House staffer, to submit the script and project proposal, seeking U.S. government sponsorship.
The third front was left to Harvey Weinstein -- once President Clinton's aide, now somewhat sidelined but still connected. He would take the script and proposal to report directly to Clinton, who was expected to show great interest.
As expected, Linton and Michael Bay visited the Pentagon's Hollywood office, meeting Colonel Roger Kahn. They received an enthusiastic welcome. Their previous collaboration on The Rock had been a perfect match, with unexpected outstanding results. The film was a huge success domestically and globally, offering excellent market returns.
The military also benefited immensely. The U.S. military's image among North American audiences improved greatly, and recruitment saw a noticeable rise. Worldwide, the film had also boosted publicity for U.S. troops and weaponry, and reportedly, overseas weapon orders at the Pentagon had surged.
This news delighted the Pentagon officials, and Colonel Kahn received multiple commendations, with hints of promotion on the horizon. His regard for Linton soared, and seeing him bring a new script resulted in a warm reception -- complete with a big hug and the best coffee served.
"Long time no see," Kahn joked, "I've invited you to club nights several times, but you were always busy. What brings you here today?"
"Don't mention it. I just got back from a five-month overseas vacation. There was a backlog of work waiting for me," Linton replied.
"I get it, but I'm envious. Five months traveling and your company's doing better than ever."
"That's thanks to my team's hard work."
After brief small talk, Linton handed over the Independence Day script and project proposal. Get full chapters from N0veI.Fiɾe.net
"Colonel Kahn, I'm here to discuss a new project collaboration."
"What kind of project? Something like The Rock?" Kahn perked up hearing about a new venture.
"Better than The Rock. This one promotes patriotism and American servicemen's spirit, but also highlights U.S. military power and weaponry worldwide, portraying American heroes protecting the earth in its darkest hour."
"Sounds excellent, I need to study the script carefully." He opened the script and read intently.
"It's great. As Earth faces an unprecedented crisis, American troops heroically storm into battle, protecting the world and defeating the aliens' sinister plot. The heroes return to base amid cheers and flowers, their deeds unsung but honored. This script is fantastic. Tell me how I can support you -- I'll push for whatever you need with my superiors."
Excited, Kahn saw this as another chance for success. Linton was his good luck charm.
"Like with The Rock, we need the Pentagon's full military support: troops, pilots, the most advanced aircraft and weapons, and internal shooting at Area 51."
"No problem. Let's grab a drink at noon, and I'll fly to Washington in the afternoon to report to General Marshall at the Pentagon. We'll get maximum support."
"Thank you. Looking forward to working together."
The next day, Kahn returned to Los Angeles with the Pentagon's latest orders -- unconditional and full support. Along with him was Lieutenant Colonel Harrick, a Pentagon liaison officer assigned to coordinate with the production team.
Clearly, the Independence Day story hit the Pentagon's sweet spot.
With the military's full backing, the film could save at least $15 million in costs. The saved budget would be invested into special effects -- crucial for the movie's success.
Massive alien ships blotting out the sky, the White House being reduced to rubble, entire cities destroyed -- these scenes demanded top-notch special effects, and quality came with a heavy price. Only Industrial Light & Magic could deliver the desired result.
The movie featured over 3,000 special effects shots, and after calculations, the contract for the effects alone reached $30 million.
Even better news came from the White House. After reading the script, President Clinton was thrilled and immediately instructed staff to devise a support plan for the movie.
The White House finally offered full tax exemption for the Independence Day film.
That was a huge boost. Based on past performance and overseas revenue, including merchandising, Independence Day's total income wouldn't fall below $500 million. After deducting production and promotion costs, the profit would be no less than $400 million.
Calculating a 40% tax rate, this White House policy was worth about $160 million -- a truly massive gift.
Moreover, Harvey brought back an invitation for Linton to attend the end-of-year White House gala.
https://www..com/Sayonara816.