MGM settles lawsuit over "Raging Bull" sequel

LOS ANGELES (TheWrap.com) - The battle between MGM and the makers of a sequel to the 1980 film 'Raging Bull' has ended in a split decision.

The studio has settled its lawsuit against boxer Jake LaMotta, the inspiration for the film, and RB II Production over a big-screen adaptation of LaMotta's 1986 book 'Raging Bull II.'

Under the agreement, the new movie has been given the working title 'The Bronx Bull,' LaMotta's boxing nickname.

In a joint statement, MGM and Dahlia Waingort - a producer at Sunset Pictures, the production company of the film's director, Martin Guigui - also stressed that the two films are in no way associated.

'The parties have amicably reached a resolution of their pending litigation, pursuant to which production of a film based upon certain events in the life of Jake LaMotta will proceed under the working title 'The Bronx Bull,'' the statement reads. 'That film is not related in any way to the 1980 motion picture entitled 'Raging Bull,' and MGM is not associated with the film in any respect. Neither party will have any further statements regarding this matter.'

MGM filed suit in Los Angeles Superior Court in early July, alleging breach of contract, intentional interference with contractual relations, intentional interference with prospective economic advantage and common law unfair competition.

The studio claimed that LaMotta was obligated to offer MGM first crack at motion-picture rights for the book, but that he went to RB II Production without their knowledge. In its complaint, the studio sought to halt production on the film.

'Raging Bull,' starring Robert De Niro and directed by Martin Scorsese, won two Academy Awards, in the Best Actor and Best Editing categories.



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