‘G.I. Joe’ writers sue over intellectual property

Two of the writers of the 2009 film "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" recently filed a lawsuit claiming that their intellectual property related to the sequel was taken without credit, according to an article in The Hollywood Reporter.

David Elliot and Paul Lovett alleged in their complaint filed in California federal court that they were asked to pitch plotlines and characters for the 2013 sequel, "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," with the understanding that they would be hired if the production companies liked the ideas. However, the pair was soon replaced by writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, who are credited in the film.

Arguing that it was their idea to reimagine the franchise "where the focus is less about high-tech wizardry and gadgetry and more about nostalgic, grounded characters," Elliot and Lovett allege that much of their worked ended up in the finished film, without credit or compensation. The pair is seeking more than $23 million in damages from Paramount, MGM, Hasbro and film producer Lorenzo Di Bonaventura.

"These original inventions, which make Plaintiffs' Proposed Sequel a compelling piece of story-telling, have been stolen by the (defendants) in the hopes of infusing the Joe Retaliation Movie with the blockbuster power of Plaintiffs' Work," read the complaint.

In addition, Elliot and Lovett claim that their pitch to the production companies included an extensive collection of documents, concept art, video clips and even mock movie posters that demonstrate the extent of their work. 

When dealing with intellectual property, disputes can arise between creators and the companies that employ them. Businesses that are engaged in such a dispute should consult with a Phoenix small business attorney. 

Categorised in: Entertainment Law

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