Fox Vow To Prosecute ‘X-Men Origins:Wolverine’ Pirates
Hugh Jackman as Wolverine in 'X-Men Origins:Wolverine'
Following on from yesterday’s leaking of a Workprint version of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Fox have announced they will be pursuing the source of the leak and any subsequent sources of distribution with the intention to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.
The studio stated they first learned of the leaked at 7pm on Tuesday, and although they admit they are presently unclear as to the origin of the leak, the FBI and MPAA are already working on the case.
“We forensically mark our content so we can identify sources that make it available or download it,” a Fox statement said. “The source of the initial leak and any subsequent postings will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. … The FBI and the MPAA also are actively investigating this crime.”
Fox add that the leaked version is a very early rough cut that is missing effects, missing some scenes, has temporary sound and music and is of a much darker appearance than the finished film.
The question remains as to whether or not the leak will harm potential Box Office takings. Many Twitter users who claimed to have downloaded the film reported that the movie was excellent, ironically leading to speculation that the theatrical release might now have the potential to benefit from the leak.
Fox also thanks fansites for their considered reactions to the situation. In a statement made yesterday Fox said:
“We are encouraged by the support of fansites condemning this illegal posting and pointing out that such theft undermines the enormous efforts of the filmmakers and actors, and above all, hurts the fans of the film.”
The leak itself is the largest of its kind in history and so there is no doubt that its newsworthiness will have raised the films profile across the world. Let’s hope this translates to a win at the Box Office.
X-Men Origins: Wolverine will premiere:
29 April 2009 in Australia & UK
1 May 2009 in the US
Source: Variety
April 6th, 2009 at 12:22 pm
I made a parody of htis ridiculous Wolverine leak-thing…
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R0QK8GyFDc
April 6th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Hahah that’s awesome!