The studio in charge of distributing those mega-popular Harry Potter films is no slouch when it comes to making money. Recently, Warner Bros. announced that the highly anticipated sixth installment in the blockbuster film franchise about the boy wizard, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” would no longer be in theaters in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. Rather, in an attempt to capitalize on an open date during the busy (See: mega-profitable) summer season, the studio decided to sit on the film until July 17, 2009, when it would be released nationwide. Most movie critics call the move strategic given that the film has all the ingredients to become a summer blockbuster and make millions at the box office.
Another way Warner Bros. stands to make money off the boy wizard franchise (starring Daniel Radcliffe and co.) comes thanks to Bollywood producers. Mumbai-based producer Mirchi Movies is getting set to release a film called “”Hari Puttar: A Comedy of Terrors.”
Sound familiar?
Warner Bros. says it sounds too familiar and just had its lawyers slap Bollywood producers with a lawsuit claiming that the movie’s title is too similar to their Harry Potter franchise.
For their part, Mirchi Movies insists the movie bears no resemblance to any film in the “Harry Potter” series.
The film company’s chief executive officer explained that Hari is a common name in India and “puttar” is Punabji for son.
“There is absolutely nothing to link ‘Hari Puttar’ with ‘Harry Potter,'” said the film company big wig. “Even if it does rhyme with Harry Potter, surely there is a limit to cases?”
According to producers, “Hari Puttar: A Comedy of Terrors” is a film that follows an Indian boy, who is left home alone, and who fights off burglars while his parents are vacationing without him. Frankly, the plot is more reminiscent of the movie “Home Alone,” starring Macaulay Culkin than “Harry Potter,” which deals with wizards and sorcery.
Still, Warner Bros. is seeking an injunction against the film, which is set for release next month. A decision in the case is expected in the next couple of weeks.