Hypothetically, if someone wanted to create a spoof of a major company, would they run into any legal issues?
For example, let's say my friend wants to create a website called Bustler. He wants it to look slightly similar to the style of Hustler, but he doesn't want to plajorize or directly steal any of the concepts. He wants to put a statement at the beginning of his website that says "In no way associated with Hustler, John Doe presents Bustler."
Any legal ramifications?
Bondo
Posted by rockbass2 (Member # 13216) on :
Hmmm guess there could be since its an obvious playoff and he wants the style to be kind of the same but I really don't know. Why doesn't he possibly try and contact them to see? I'd rather find out in advance than to do all the work and find out they want it gone or lawsuits on the way.
Posted by Bondo (Member # 1403) on :
Who can he contact in a situation like that to get the proper answer?
Bondo
Posted by rockbass2 (Member # 13216) on :
Now that I really have no idea. I'm sure a magazine would have some contact info. Know where the headquarters is located? I searched yellowpages.com and came up with a likely possibility
Hustler 8484 Wilshire Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(323) 651-5400
Posted by scarlet (Member # 2117) on :
I think if you allude to hustler at all, you're setting yourself up to be sued because you're using their name to benefit your own product. Thus they can sue you. In those cases, one would have to feign entire ignornance and sheer coincidence to get away with it, it can not resemble appear or allude to hustler in any way shape or form.
Posted by jediofthefeet (Member # 1463) on :
The real issue will be the issue of "fair use". Will the web site in any way, shape, or form cause damage(s) to the actual company? Is the parody for entertainment purposes or for profit?
Think of one of our favorite movies--Star Wars. George Lucas lets a lot of people use Star Wars type music, sounds, and effects as long as the idea is not to damage Star Wars or to generate profit.
Scarlet was correct. Its not advised to use the actual company's name on the parody web site. Think about it. If someone uses a search engine, and finds the real company's name on the site, that is an instant set up for a lawsuit.
I love a good parody!
Posted by Sockratease (Member # 13891) on :
And never forget Mike Rowe!
His software company, legitimately called Mike Rowe Soft got sued by Bill Gates!
Go figure...
Posted by ledaemon (Member # 198) on :
People have been sued for Trademark infringement before with logos looking similar to other existing company logos. For example putting out a product called "Okra Cola" that featured the same style lettering as Coca Cola and had green waves instead of red on the logo would probably cause a big lawsuit. However, if it is done in printed satire like a Mad Magazine cartoon I believe that it is protected.
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