Despite the script requiring considerable changes, Reitman pitched the film to Columbia Pictures executive Frank Price in March 1983. Price recounted finding the concept funny but the project itself controversial, as comedies were seen to have a ceiling on profitability. The film would require a big budget due to the special effects and a popular cast. Reitman said they could work with $25–$30 million; different figures have been cited. Price agreed as long as the film could be released by June 1984. Reitman admitted he made up the figure, basing it on three times the budget for "Stripes," which seemed "reasonable." This left thirteen months to complete the film, with no script, effects studio, or filming start date. He hired Joe Medjuck and Michael C. Gross as associate producers, having collaborated with them previously. Columbia's CEO Fay Vincent sent his lawyer Dick Gallop to Los Angeles to convince Price not to pursue the film, but Price disagreed. Gallop returned to head office reporting Price was "out of control."