California is filled with people who strive to become successful in the entertainment field. While most people likely think of actors and singers when they think of money-making films and television shows, the creative forces behind the success of many movies are really those who write scripts. Unfortunately, some writers often feel that their ideas are used without proper credit, potentially prompting their desire for legal recourse, including litigation.
For example, three writers have recently filed a lawsuit against the Walt Disney Company. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs began working with Disney in 2000 when they submitted a screenplay called “Red Hood.” While working with Disney to create that film, they claim they came up with the idea of “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Some of their ideas for the lawsuit were based on Disney’s ride of the same name.
The lawsuit claims that Disney used many of their ideas — including the creation of what they described as a “new genre of pirate” in the film’s main character, Captain Jack Sparrow. However, the plaintiffs argue that despite Disney’s use of the elements contained in their original script, they were never appropriately credited or compensated. In fact, they argue, Disney has a history of stealing works from others, specifically citing “Toy Story” and “Lion King,” among others. In addition to punitive damages, they are asking that the franchise be ended; Disney claims that the lawsuit is without merit.
The people who put their efforts into creating their art — whether it is a screenplay or other form of artistic expression — likely want nothing more than for their work to be experienced by a wide audience. However, many are forced to turn to litigation in order to protect their intellectual property. An attorney with experience with such cases can help victims in California fully understand their rights and legal options.
Source: thedenverchannel.com, “Lawsuit: Disney stole idea for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ from 3 Colorado authors,” Robert Garrison, Nov. 15, 2017
