Return of the Living Dead Revival Faces Legal Complications

As a seasoned gamer and horror movie enthusiast with over three decades of zombie apocalypse simulations under my belt, I can’t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia when it comes to the news about the potential remake of the classic 80s horror-comedy gem, “Return of the Living Dead.” However, hearing about the legal challenges that seem to have arisen between Living Dead Media LLC and ROTLD Originals LLC has me shaking my head like one of those iconic zombie heads from the film.

Approximately a year ago, whispers circulated about the revival of the 1985 horror-comedy classic “Return of the Living Dead.” However, according to recent reports by Deadline, the proposed remake is currently embroiled in legal disputes. The company initially planning the reboot, Living Dead Media LLC, has filed a lawsuit against ROTLD Originals LLC, a newly formed company that includes original cast members. The lawsuit claims that ROTLD Originals is intentionally stalling any development on the reboot from Living Dead Media. It appears that updates on a potential “Return of the Living Dead” reboot might be on hold for now due to these legal challenges.

In simpler terms, the lawsuit states that just because someone acts in a movie doesn’t mean they own or have control over the characters or the film itself. Specifically, Beverly Dawn Hartley has no ownership, claim, or involvement with the original film. Furthermore, neither Hartley, ROTLD, nor any other parties claiming rights are not entitled to any of the characters or merchandise being sold by these licensees.

In simpler terms, the lawsuit alleges that the creation of ROTLD (Rotten Old Town Limited Deeds) is an attempt to disrupt ongoing agreements between LDM and its current licensees.

“The classic horror film ‘Return of the Living Dead’, like many others, sought to emulate the success of George A. Romero’s 1968 movie ‘Night of the Living Dead’. This movie popularized the concept of a zombie as an undead creature yearning for human flesh, and in ‘Return of the Living Dead’, these creatures craved brains instead. Interestingly, despite being an original story, ‘Return’ was able to reference Romero’s first film directly and suggest that it served as a sequel due to a copyright issue.”

1985’s film spawned four follow-ups, with the latest being “Return of the Living Dead: Rave to the Grave” from 2005.

Initially, Living Dead Media unveiled their plan for a remake of “Return of the Living Dead”. They explained that their version will broaden the universe developed by the initial five films, while maintaining the R-rated, sci-fi, horror, dark comedy essence cherished by the global fanbase of this cult classic for over three decades. The team is thrilled to breathe new life into this iconic franchise, appealing not only to existing fans but also to future generations of zombie enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for updates on the possible future of Return of the Living Dead.

1. “Do you wish for a remake of the film? Reach out to Patrick Cavanaugh personally via Twitter or Instagram to chat about everything Star Wars and horror!”

2024-08-09 22:39

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