A groundbreaking verdict was reached on Thursday when a federal jury in California concluded that Disney owed approximately $600,000 to Rearden LLC. This ruling occurred after it was discovered that Disney had used Rearden's MOVA Contour motion-capture software without authorization to create the 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast remake.
Who was affected by this unauthorized usage? None other than the Beast himself, played by actor Dan Stevens, as his face was rendered using the illicitly obtained software. The eye-opening trial uncovered that Disney collaborated with another company, Digital Domain 3.0, to use the stolen software in the film.
Disney's Penalties and Response
In light of their copyright infringement, the jury decreed that more than $250,000 in actual damages should go to Rearden. Moreover, it recommended that more than $345,000 of Disney's profits from the film should also be paid to Rearden.
While a considerable amount, the damages awarded were significantly less than requested. Disney responded with relief, stating it was "gratified that the jury properly rejected Rearden's request for $38 million from Beauty and the Beast's profits."
Did Disney Really Know?
Rearden's voyage to justice has been a protracted one, beginning in 2017. It was unveiled then how a rogue employee purloined the Contour technology, delivering it straight to the hands of Digital Domain 3.0.
Rearden claims to have had prior dealings with Disney using the Contour tech in films like Avengers and Tron: Legacy. Thus, couldn't fathom how Disney was oblivious to Digital Domain's rightlessness to the software. Disney, however, denied these allegations, arguing Rearden didn't own the copyright during Beauty and the Beast's creation and cannot, therefore, be liable for the infringement.
What's Next for Rearden and Disney?
What does this mean for the blockade previously placed on related lawsuits Rearden filed against Paramount and Disney's 20th Century Fox? These cases were held in abeyance throughout the Beauty and the Beast trial and now have the potential to proceed.
Rearden's accusations against Disney's Marvel also concern purported software misuse in films like the Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers: Age of Ultron. These claims are likewise pending.
Why Is Legal Assistance Crucial in Such Cases?
As seen in Rearden LLC v. Disney Enterprises Inc., instances of copyright infringement like these are incredibly complex, and it's possible for firms not even to be aware they are making an infringement until it's too late. Engaging experienced legal counsel is crucial to navigating intellectual property rights and disputes.
In today's digital era, where tech theft is rampant, safeguarding your IP rights is critical. Expert lawyers can help protect your innovations and prevent unintentional infringements. Whether defending your work or challenging a claim, trust in skilled legal professionals to steer you through these complex waters is a must.
Reach out to one today and make sure you're not the next Disney in court.
