Gizmodo Editor-in-Chief Sues Apple Over Tetris Movie: A Legal Battle Unfolds

Imagine pouring your heart and soul into a literary masterpiece, only to discover that it has been used as the foundation for a blockbuster film without your permission or consent. This is the unfortunate reality that Dan Ackerman, editor-in-chief of tech news site Gizmodo, found himself facing when Apple TV+ released its new “Tetris” movie. In a bold move, Ackerman filed a lawsuit against Apple, the Tetris Company, and others involved, seeking damages for copyright infringement and unfair competition.

The Background: Dan Ackerman’s “The Tetris Effect”

Let’s rewind to 2016 when Ackerman published his book, “The Tetris Effect: The Game That Hypnotized the World.” This literary gem delves into the origins of the popular video game and the battle for its global licensing rights. Ackerman’s book, described as a “literary masterpiece” in the lawsuit, takes readers on a thrilling journey reminiscent of a Cold War spy thriller.

The Alleged Plagiarism: The Tetris Film vs. Ackerman’s Book

According to the lawsuit filed by Ackerman, the “Tetris” movie is “substantially similar” to his book in almost all material respects. Ackerman claims that specific chapters and pages of his work were adopted without his knowledge, authorization, or consent. The movie allegedly follows the same narrative, action sequences, and adversarial relationships between players as outlined in Ackerman’s book. It’s an uncanny resemblance that raises serious questions about intellectual property rights.

A Shocking Discovery: Ackerman’s Interaction with the Tetris Company

In a twist of fate, Ackerman’s legal battle takes an unexpected turn when it is revealed that he had sent a pre-publication copy of his book to the Tetris Company in 2016. However, the company refused to engage in any deal with Ackerman for projects related to the book. In fact, they even sent him a cease-and-desist letter, seemingly determined to obstruct any licensing or optioning endeavors related to his work.

The Lawsuit: Seeking Justice and Compensation

On March 2023, Ackerman decided to take a stand and filed a lawsuit against Apple, screenwriter Noah Pink, Marv Studios, the Tetris Company, and others involved in the making of the “Tetris” movie. In his legal action, Ackerman seeks a minimum of $4.8 million in damages, representing 6% of the film’s estimated $80 million production budget, along with attorney’s fees and costs. Alternatively, he aims to recover statutory damages of up to $150,000.00 per copyright infringed, highlighting the alleged willful infringement.

The Tetris Company’s Response

In response to the lawsuit, the Tetris Company has remained tight-lipped, stating that they are reviewing the claims but believe they lack merit. While they have refrained from further comment at this stage, the legal battle promises to be a gripping showdown between the parties involved.

The Impact on Ackerman’s Business Opportunities

Ackerman’s lawsuit also raises concerns about the Tetris Company’s motives. The lawsuit alleges that the company’s actions were not solely aimed at preventing copyright infringement, but rather, at attacking Ackerman’s business opportunities. By refusing to credit or compensate him, the Tetris Company seemingly sought to capitalize on the opportunities presented by his book without fair consideration for the author.

Conclusion

The clash between Gizmodo’s editor-in-chief, Dan Ackerman, and Apple over the “Tetris” movie serves as a stark reminder of the importance of intellectual property rights. Ackerman’s lawsuit brings to light the potential consequences of using someone’s creative work without proper authorization or consent. As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how justice will be served in this intriguing case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the basis of Dan Ackerman’s lawsuit against Apple?

Ackerman’s lawsuit is based on the alleged copyright infringement and unfair competition arising from the unauthorized use of his book, “The Tetris Effect,” as the basis for the “Tetris” movie released by Apple TV+.

2. How much compensation is Dan Ackerman seeking in his lawsuit?

Ackerman is seeking a minimum of $4.8 million in damages, representing 6% of the film’s estimated $80 million production budget, along with attorney’s fees and costs. Alternatively, he aims to recover statutory damages of up to $150,000.00 per copyright infringed.

3. What actions did the Tetris Company take in relation to Dan Ackerman’s book?

The Tetris Company allegedly refused to engage in any deal with Ackerman for projects related to his book and sent him a cease-and-desist letter. This obstruction of licensing and optioning opportunities forms part of Ackerman’s lawsuit.

4. How has the Tetris Company responded to the lawsuit?

The Tetris Company has stated that they are reviewing the lawsuit but believe it lacks merit. They have not provided further comment at this time.

5. What are the potential implications of this legal battle?

This legal battle raises important considerations regarding intellectual property rights and the consequences of utilizing someone’s creative work without proper authorization or consent. The outcome of the lawsuit may set a precedent for similar cases in the future.