The litigation that disrupted the relationship between Marvel Enterprises and Sony Pictures is now over. Both companies announced they have "amicably resolved their pending court disputes." In 2003, Marvel sued SPIDER-MAN partner for $50 million, claiming the film studio was trying to label SPIDER-MAN a Sony property and leaving Marvel alienated from merchandising its own character. As part of the agreement, details were not released.
The other lawsuits settled as part of the new agreement include Marvel suit against Sony Electronics for refusing to license Spider-Man for use on its consumer electronics products and having Sony Pictures do the same with competitors. This case was seeking $10 million in damages. Then Marvel sued Sony again regarding accounting problems regarding merchandising royalties on MEN IN BLACK worth $6 million. Sony had countersued Marvel claiming that the comic company was trying to use the courts to unjustly renegotiate its contract with Sony.
In the statement, the two companies stressed their partnership on future SPIDER-MAN film as well as film based on Marvel comics GHOST RIDER and LUKE CAGE.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
