Rockstar Games has launched a lawsuit against the BBC in response to its upcoming TV drama focused on Grand Theft Auto. The developer has claimed trademark infringement on Game Changer, a reportedly 90 minute feature that details the developer’s early days, the success it had with Grand Theft Auto, and the company’s continual conflict with lawyer Jack Thompson.
Speaking to IGN, Rockstar Games confirmed they had no involvement in the upcoming BBC production:
“Take-Two Interactive has filed suit against the BBC for trademark infringement based on their movie currently titled ‘Game Changer’ as it relates to Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto video game series.
“While holders of the trademarks referenced in the film title and its promotion, Rockstar Games has had no involvement with this project. Our goal is to ensure that our trademarks are not misused in the BBC’s pursuit of an unofficial depiction of purported events related to Rockstar Games. We have attempted multiple times to resolve this matter with the BBC without any meaningful resolution. It is our obligation to protect our intellectual property and unfortunately in this case litigation was necessary.”
Back in March the BBC announced that it would be making a “new drama based on Grand Theft Auto.” The TV drama is currently scheduled to be broadcasted on BBC Two later this year as part of their “Make it Digital” campaign. The drama stars the unlikeliest of actor combinations: Daniel Radcliffe will play Rockstar Games’ founder and president Sam Houser, while Bill Paxton will play lawyer Jack Thompson.
What are your thoughts on this project? If eventually released, will you be watching this 90 minute feature? Let us know in the comments.
