Hollywood Art: System of sunnys

December 27, 1995.

Billy had been excited about his upcoming business trip to San Diego, California. He was there to propose a deal to Audrey Geisel, the widow of Dr. Seuss, about acquiring the rights to "The Grinch." The Dr. Seuss stories had become increasingly popular, with many being adapted into films, and Billy saw an opportunity to bring them into the animated world.

As they approached the pastel-colored house at 154 on 102nd Street, Monica, who was accompanying him, expressed her surprise. "I didn’t expect you to take me along for a business meeting," she said, caught off guard by how quickly everything had returned to normal after the holidays.

"It'll be quick," Billy assured her. "I’ve got to close a deal that I’m passionate about. Sometimes what’s important today might not be as urgent tomorrow, so it's better to act now. I'm lucky they accepted my request for this meeting, and fortunately, we’ve got a little window of time."

When they arrived, they were greeted by Audrey Geisel, a dignified elderly woman with white hair, surrounded by her grandchildren. The family was gathered together, and Billy felt the significance of their visit, especially as he looked at the collection of comics he brought as gifts. These weren’t just gifts; they were a testament to his creativity and what he could offer in terms of animation.

"Punctual, five minutes early," Audrey noted with a smile. "For meetings like this, it’s unusual for someone to be right on time. The maze of houses often delays people."

"We woke up a bit early," Billy replied, glancing at Monica, who was not a morning person unless she had gone to bed early the night before. They were shown into a sitting room, where several people were already gathered, their eyes fixed on Billy and Monica as they took their seats.

"It’s a pleasure to meet everyone," Billy greeted the room. Monica shifted uncomfortably in her chair, feeling out of place in a situation she hadn’t asked for. The atmosphere was tense, but Audrey soon returned with tea, which Billy accepted graciously. Monica, however, wrinkled her nose at the strong smell of ginger—one of her least favorite scents.

Audrey examined the comics Billy had brought: the first two volumes of Real and the first volume of Slam Dunk. The covers were strikingly beautiful, though the third volume didn’t quite match the quality of the others.

"So, son, you say you have a proposal to buy the rights to The Grinch," Audrey began, her keen eyes observing Billy closely while her children listened intently. The grandchildren were sent outside to play, leaving the adults to discuss the matter at hand.

"I do," Billy confirmed. "I believe my offer is above many you might receive. As a creator of books, comics, and much more, I strongly believe in supporting authors above all else. That’s why I have all the production channels—publishing, distribution, animation studio, and, of course, closed contracts with toy companies. Here’s my proposal. If you could review it and get back to me when you have time, that would be great. Before you read it, I should add that you could potentially make more money with other publishers or companies, but what I’m offering is the right thing for the books. They have a legacy, and the affinity between artists and their work is crucial. I aim to satisfy both, neither leaning too far in any one direction."

Billy’s publishing company was a non-profit organization focused on funding writers, using profits to sustain the company while distributing the rest to the authors. His agreement with MacMillan was already solidified, ensuring that the sale of books was handled with care. Additionally, the development of Dr. Seuss’s characters included another clause for payment per series, along with detailed budgets, ideas, and working methods.

As for live-action or potential adaptations, Billy’s contract was fortified with the necessary provisions to deliver a top-tier movie, but he couldn’t offer a film without giving something first.

"So you just hand over a contract and leave?" Audrey asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, I’m proposing a business deal that requires thought. Words can be excessive; everything is in the folder. There’s no need for persuasion; for deals like this, it’s important to have clear offers. I can’t offer anything beyond what’s in there. We can negotiate, as long as it’s balanced. But as I said, it’s not about the money—it’s about the project. I promise 20 years of animations and 20 years of passive and active income that will support your family and Dr. Seuss’s legacy—not just a one-time payment. Thank you for the tea and your time, but I apologize for intruding during the holidays. I have another meeting soon with someone even more demanding, but you can call me anytime. I’m confident we’ll have a wonderful relationship," Billy said.

His approach was clear: this was both his first and final offer, with room for growth. The companies Billy managed and his presentation spoke for themselves. Inside the folder was an additional gift: a small DVD of A Bug’s Life from his company, Pixar.

***

Once they left the house, with Billy's permission, Monica was left speechless at how quickly he had concluded the deal and in such a manner that she found it all very poetic.

-She wanted to bring us down to a more personal level, - Billy remarked, surveying everything. -She invited us to her home on a family day, at a specific time before lunch, which likely means she intended to cut the conversation short if things didn’t go her way. That’s why any negotiation would be abruptly halted. Also, she kept us waiting; she could have easily had someone else prepare the tea. Thirdly, her stance was closed off, making negotiations very difficult. She’s looking for a winning offer, but as I said, success comes from work well done. -

-So much in so little time. I think I’m astonished—I’m afraid I don’t fully grasp everything... but her surprised expression amuses me. I’ve never seen someone deflate another person so effectively before. It’s amusing that you managed to establish your position, - Monica sighed, reflecting on how it all played out.

The loss and the chance to find themselves tangled up led them to head toward Microsoft for the second round of the day—a necessary meeting. The push to start with video games had begun, and the innovation research had been completed, involving contracts with various companies to find someone capable of improving all the devices needed for a console like that. That’s why Billy decided that the best approach was to expand everything, to something that seemed impossible, just as Jobs had taught him to be thorough.

-Do the best you can, even if those around you don’t believe it’s possible. That’s why your vision is fantastic—if you can organize your workers to achieve the impossible, perhaps they’ll find something better. You just need to show them the right path, and they’ll handle the rest. -

Goals that seem impossible but are achievable.

-Who are we meeting next? - she asked, a little curious.

-A businessman, but this time it will be quicker because I have to attend. It turns out I’m an obligatory business consultant, and I’m guiding the company with my ideas, - Billy replied, anticipating the meeting with Microsoft Games, and particularly, it was magnificent.

...