Part 5/15:
Universal Studios initially hesitated, with chairman Ted Ashley dismissing their 104-page treatment as a waste of time, predicting the project would never be made into a film. Yet, opportunistically, Simmons secured a development deal with Universal, which was fraught with challenges, given the common perception of development deals as "tickets to hell." Nonetheless, two key executives—Shawn Daniel and Tom Mount—supported the project, recognizing its potential.
Simmons describes Universal's early missteps—being unfamiliar with the script and uncertain of its tone. Despite universal skepticism, the studio showed enthusiasm for the humor and daring nature of the material, recognizing its cultural boldness. Their willingness to take risks set the stage for eventual production.