Tolkien estate counter-sued

A lawsuit filed by the Tolkien estate in November last year against Warner Bros, Saul Zaentz Company and New Line claiming infringement of copyright and breach of contract over Lord of the Rings slot machines and video games took another turn this week.

The Saul Zaentz Company, the four-decade-long rights holder of the franchise, has reportedly filed a counter claim which in essence refutes the Tolkien Estate claim saying the original agreements do include rights to digital formats. He further suggests that the success and goodwill associated with the brand is entirely due to how the Company has marketed and nurtured the brand.

Zaentz has not suggested a dismissal of the suit but is rather requesting a jury trial to either charge or vindicate the company according to the terms of the contract it holds.

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