Musk in the Crosshairs: 'Blade Runner 2049' Producer Alleges Copyright Theft

Blade Runner 2049' Producer Files Copyright Suit Against Tesla, Musk

The lawsuit seeks damages and an injunction against further...

Blade Runner 2049' Producer Sues Musk, Tesla, Warner Bros. Discovery for AI-Generated Copyright Infringement

Alcon Entertainment, producer of the critically acclaimed film “Blade Runner 2049,” filed a lawsuit in a Los Angeles federal court on October 21 against Elon Musk, Tesla, and Warner Bros. Discovery. The lawsuit alleges unauthorized use of images from the 2017 sci-fi film to promote Tesla's new Cybercab vehicle.

According to the lawsuit, Musk and Tesla utilized AI-generated imagery based on “Blade Runner 2049” without obtaining necessary permissions. Alcon Entertainment owns the rights to the film and claims this infringement constitutes copyright infringement.

Defendants named in the lawsuit include:

• Elon Musk
• Tesla, Inc.
• Warner Bros. Discovery

The lawsuit seeks damages and an injunction against further unauthorized use of “Blade Runner 2049” imagery.

Alcon Entertainment's lawsuit highlights Elon Musk's repeated references to “Blade Runner” during Tesla's “robotaxi” event, despite only displaying the AI-generated image for 11 seconds. Musk allegedly praised the film's vision but contrasted its dark themes with Tesla's Cybercab, labeling it “less dystopian.”

The lawsuit asserts that Warner Bros. Discovery, as event host, should have secured permission from Alcon Entertainment, the copyright owner, before allowing Tesla to use "Blade Runner 2049"-inspired imagery. Alcon argues that Warner Bros. Discovery's involvement could imply endorsement.

Alcon Entertainment also expressed concerns about being associated with Musk due to his divisive political views and support for former President Donald Trump. The production company seeks to protect its brand reputation and intellectual property.

Highlights 

• Lawsuit filed by Alcon Entertainment against Elon Musk, Tesla, and Warner Bros. Discovery
• Allegation of unauthorized use of “Blade Runner 2049” images for Tesla Cybercab promotion
• AI-generated imagery used without necessary permissions
• Copyright infringement claimed
• Lawsuit seeks damages and injunction
• Warner Bros. Discovery hosted the event without obtaining necessary permissions
• Alcon Entertainment objects to association with Musk's views
• Lawsuit seeks damages and protection of intellectual property