What's Happening?
Marv Studios, the production company founded by director Matthew Vaughn, is facing a lawsuit from two stuntmen, Theo Morton and Douglas Robson. The lawsuit alleges that a clip from 'Kingsman: The Golden
Circle' was used without authorization in Elton John's Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. The stuntmen, backed by the acting union Equity, claim the 18-second clip, which shows John in action, was used in over 330 live performances and featured in broadcasts on Disney+ and BBC iPlayer. They are seeking £100,000 ($133,000) each in lost earnings, arguing that the use of the footage breached their contract with Marv. Despite attempts to resolve the issue amicably, Marv has not responded to requests for dialogue, prompting the legal action.
Why It's Important?
This lawsuit highlights ongoing issues in the entertainment industry regarding the use of performers' work without consent. The case underscores the importance of clear contractual agreements and the potential financial implications of unauthorized use of creative content. For the stuntmen involved, the case represents a significant financial claim and a stand for performers' rights. For Marv Studios, the lawsuit could lead to reputational damage and financial liability. The involvement of Equity, a major acting union, suggests broader industry support for the performers' claims, potentially influencing future industry practices regarding performers' rights and compensation.
What's Next?
The legal proceedings will likely continue unless an out-of-court settlement is reached. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly concerning the rights of performers in film and live performance contexts. If the court rules in favor of the stuntmen, it may encourage other performers to pursue similar claims, potentially leading to more stringent industry standards for the use of performers' work. Marv Studios may need to reassess its contractual agreements and licensing practices to prevent future disputes.
