(2009) Tags: Sony
E1 FILMS CANADA INC. v. SYNDICATE FILMS INTERNATIONAL
E1 is a Canadian distributor and inked a 4 film deal with the Yari Film Group, where E1 would distribute Yari’s films in Canada and Yari would release the pictures in the United States.
E1 prepaid Yari for the 4 movies and a major stipulation in the agreement for the price that was paid, was that Yari was required to give each movie a wide theatrical release in at least 500 theaters. Because of financial difficulties, Yari was unable to support the movies with wide theatrical exhibition and ‘The Maiden Heist’ [aka. ‘The Lonely Maiden’] starring Morgan Freeman, William H. Macy and Christopher Walken went straight to video — ultimately reducing the overall value of the film. E1 then launched this lawsuit for breach of contract and damages.
Read the full court report below for more information.