[Chapter 220: Alumni Reunion, Big Sale]
On October 6th, Linton attended the South California University School of Cinema and Television alumni event with Robert, who had been invited through Linton's introduction.
As the university most closely linked to the Hollywood film industry, South California's Cinema School had long been a top destination for aspiring filmmakers. Known for its world-class education and strong industry ties, the school had produced a steady stream of accomplished professionals and earned a reputation as a global leader in film education.
Unlike East Coast institutions such as NYU, Columbia, or the Maryland Art School, South California leaned heavily toward Hollywood's commercial filmmaking style. Its mission was clear: to train students to create technically sophisticated, industrial-grade films that could thrive in the marketplace.
The school also held a unique distinction -- more Oscar winners had emerged from its halls than any other institution. Its legendary alumni included George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, Ron Howard, Brian Grazer, among others.
Linton had deep ties to the school and saw the event as both a homecoming and a networking opportunity. Although Robert wasn't an alumnus, his reputation as a school supporter had earned him a place among the attendees, thanks to Linton's recommendation.
...
As soon as George Lucas spotted Linton, he greeted him enthusiastically.
"Linton, you're amazing! Speed was a box office smash, and the soundtrack is phenomenal. You're truly our school's prodigy!"
"I still have a lot to learn from all of you seniors," Linton replied modestly.
"No need to call us seniors here -- just call me George," Lucas smiled.
"Thank you, George," Linton responded.
"When you released that first album, I figured you'd focus on music, and your directing studies might go to waste," Lucas continued. "But then you gave us Step Up and Speed. You've made the school incredibly proud."
Lucas also noted that Linton had received early support from Professors Johnson and Mike. "The teachers must be really proud of you. In just two years, you've come so far. Keep going -- the school will be proud of you for decades to come."
"Since this is your first time at an alumni event, let me introduce you around," Lucas offered.
Thanks to George Lucas's introductions, Linton was soon at ease in the inner circle of alumni. A few attendees were also Oscar voters from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Linton socialized and drank with many, quickly becoming a focal point as a rising star director and studio head.
The reunion proved highly productive, establishing a new wave of valuable connections.
...
Later that evening, George Lucas learned that Linton was planning to donate $5 million for the construction of a state-of-the-art teaching building and pre-production studio.
"That's generous -- and fitting," George said. "Your success today is thanks to the school and your professors."
In fact, Linton had already quietly donated $2 million the previous year through Professor Johnson. This new gift was meant not only to express gratitude but also to boost Professor Johnson's standing within the institution.
...
At the next stage of the event, Linton accompanied Professor Johnson to meet with the school leadership. There, he officially pledged the $5 million donation from his charitable foundation. His aunt and accountant would finalize the paperwork the following day. It was the largest single donation announced at the event, bringing Linton's total contributions to $10 million.
"It's rare for someone to give back like this," Johnson said, clearly moved.
"Thank you, teacher. I still have a long way to go. Everything I've achieved is because of the school's and your guidance," Linton said sincerely.
"We're family. No need to be so humble. At your age, it's your time to shine."
"Thank you, teacher. Shall we go see the school leadership now?"
Professor Johnson had been one of Linton's strongest supporters during his time as a student. Now, Linton was repaying that support with genuine appreciation.
By the end of the night, Linton and Robert, with the backing of Robert Zemeckis, were officially welcomed into the South California University School of Cinema and Television Alumni Association.
---
Meanwhile, the final accounting for Speed was completed by Universal Pictures and Linton Films.
Box Office (North America): The film grossed $193.72 million domestically. Based on the agreement, the studio's share came to $67.802 million.
TV Rights: Seven-year domestic television rights were sold for $19 million. Of that, $15.2 million went to the studio.
VHS Rights: Universal sold a seven-year rental and sales license to Blockbuster for $20 million, plus a 30% revenue share. The studio's base cut was $16 million, with quarterly revenue sharing yet to be calculated.
Merchandise Sales: Mini-bus models and character dolls of Linton and Catherine generated $88 million in revenue, yielding $35.2 million in profit. The studio's share was $17.6 million. Linton personally earned $8 million from North American doll royalties, while Catherine earned $1.6 million.
Overseas merchandise sales nearly matched domestic numbers despite weaker copyright protections and lower box office returns. Linton and Catherine broke Hollywood convention by selling overseas doll rights to Universal at North American pricing. As a result, they later earned an additional $16 million and $3.2 million respectively overall.
Overseas Rights: Universal paid $86.85 million for full overseas distribution rights -- an amount pegged at 45% of the North American box office.
Sponsorships: Prior to this settlement, Universal had already collected $13.5 million from advertising sponsorships.
Total Settlement: With all revenue streams accounted for, Universal reported $203.452 million. Including sponsorships and tax adjustments, the final figure reached $212.61 million.
Linton's Share: Under the agreement, Linton's company first collected a 10% production management fee -- $21.261 million. The remaining $191.349 million was split by investment ratio. From this, Linton Films earned $114.8094 million. Including all revenue sources, the total came to $136.0704 million -- excluding future VHS revenue sharing.
Considering Linton Films had invested just $21 million in Speed, the film turned out to be a spectacularly profitable venture.
Meanwhile, Catherine's endorsement fees had soared to the level of top-tier male stars. Her agency was overwhelmed with offers. Linton, too, was preparing to renegotiate three major endorsement deals for the next year, expecting a significant bump in rates.
*****
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