Any script in a world with a significant existing fan base could pre-sell dvd copies of movies before production, to generate capital and provide proof-of-support-of-concept. Why don't franchises like Marvel or Star Trek do this? Or do they already?
In a sense, Star Trek did - it was a franchise rescued from obscurity after being cancelled by its huge fanbase, and went on to make the series of movies, TNG and so on.
There may be earlier examples, but it's the first case I'm aware of where the fanbase had a direct influence on the resuscitation of a show.
Main issue is that the amount of capitol needed for a movie is insane. $10 million is a drop in the bucket, and that would require pre-selling 500k DVDs or so.
