Home / Arts and Entertainment / Screenwriter Sues Over 'Migration' Film Copy
Screenwriter Sues Over 'Migration' Film Copy
27 Jun
Summary
- Lawsuit alleges 'Migration' copied plot, themes, and characters.
- Similarities include bird families and NYC Central Park setting.
- Screenwriter claims access to his 2007 screenplay, 'South for the Winter'.
A federal copyright infringement lawsuit has been filed against Illumination Entertainment, Universal Pictures, and screenwriter Mike White. The complaint, initiated by San Diego-based screenwriter Kenneth Giavara, alleges that the animated film 'Migration' infringes upon his 2007 screenplay titled 'South for the Winter.'
Giavara's lawsuit asserts that 'Migration' replicates multiple fundamental elements from his work. These include the core plot, thematic elements, characterizations, dialogue, and the chosen setting. He highlights specific parallels such as families of birds residing in New England, the presence of an overprotective father figure named Mac, and a significant migration journey featuring Central Park in New York City.
The plaintiff contends that the extensive overlap between the two screenplays strongly suggests that 'Migration' could not have been independently developed. Giavara further posits that due to the recognition his 'South for the Winter' screenplay received, including winning first place at the Fresh Voices Screenplay Competition in 2011 and significant efforts over seven years to get it produced, the film's writer could have plausibly accessed his work.
