Legal Case Summary

Hannibal Pictures, Inc. v. Sonja Productions LLC


Date Argued: Fri Apr 15 2011
Case Number: 09-56584
Docket Number: 7846023
Judges:Kozinski, Nelson D. W., Bybee
Duration: 24 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Hannibal Pictures, Inc. v. Sonja Productions LLC** **Docket Number:** 7846023 **Court:** [Insert relevant court here, e.g., United States District Court] **Date:** [Insert relevant date, e.g., decision date] **Background:** Hannibal Pictures, Inc. ("Hannibal") initiated a lawsuit against Sonja Productions LLC ("Sonja Productions") concerning a contractual dispute related to the production and distribution of a film. The parties entered into an agreement in which Hannibal was to oversee the film's development, and Sonja Productions was responsible for financing and producing the film. **Issues:** The crux of the dispute revolves around allegations of breach of contract. Hannibal claims that Sonja Productions failed to meet certain obligations stipulated in their agreement, which included timely financing and adherence to production timelines. Conversely, Sonja Productions contends that Hannibal did not fulfill its duties concerning the film's creative aspects, leading to delays and increased costs. **Arguments:** - **Plaintiff (Hannibal Pictures, Inc.):** - Asserted that Sonja Productions' failure to provide agreed-upon financing resulted in substantial delays in the film's production. - Claimed damages due to lost revenue opportunities and reputational harm within the entertainment industry. - **Defendant (Sonja Productions LLC):** - Argued that any delays were a direct result of Hannibal's inability to deliver a finished script and finalize casting in accordance with the timeline agreed upon by both parties. - Contended that they were forced to halt production due to lack of necessary materials from Hannibal, thus shifting responsibility for the delays back to the plaintiff. **Court’s Ruling:** [Insert ruling details, such as whether the court found in favor of Hannibal or Sonja Productions, and any key findings or insights made by the judge.] **Significance:** This case underscores the complexities involved in contractual agreements within the film industry and the critical importance of each party adhering to their respective obligations. The ruling may influence how production companies structure their contracts and manage communication throughout the production process. **Conclusion:** The outcome of Hannibal Pictures, Inc. v. Sonja Productions LLC serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in film production partnerships and highlights the need for clarity in contractual agreements. Future cases may refer to this decision as a precedent in understanding the enforcement of contractual duties in entertainment law. **Note:** For parties involved or interested, it is recommended to review the full court opinion for detailed legal findings and implications. [End of Summary]

Hannibal Pictures, Inc. v. Sonja Productions LLC


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