Fox, Warner Bros. reportedly close to “Watchmen” settlement
Let’s hope they mean really close.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Warner Bros. and Fox are “close” to reaching a settlement in the lawsuit that has put the release of the film version of “Watchmen” in jeopardy.
Citing “those familiar with the dealmaking,” the trade publication reports that a settlement could close out the copyright infringement suit that has entangled the two studios and kept fans of the celebrated graphic novel worried about the film fate of The Comedian, Rorschach and Dr. Manhattan.
Federal Judge Gary Feess recently ruled that Fox has distribution rights to the film, which Warner Bros. plans to release March 6. According to HR, negotiations between the two sides “got serious during the weekend,” and their reps had a closed-door meeting Monday in Los Angeles federal court to work out the details.
Neither side would comment on the discussions, according to the trade publication, who said they took place for about 30 minutes in the judge’s chambers. If the two sides don’t reach a settlement, the judge is set to make a decision on Jan. 20.
Watching the NFL games this weekend, I noticed a stepped-up ad campaign for “Watchmen,” which I’m taking as a hopeful sign that the film will come out as plan. I’ve started reading the graphic novel – a lovely Christmas gift from my friend, colleague and NewsOK’s chief nerd Matt Price of the Nerdage blog – since this is one of the most anticipated films of the year.
Check out the new “Watchmen” TV spot, posted here courtesy of YouTube.
-BAM
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I for one have never been worried. In Hollywood, money usually wins out.