You remember that Jan De Bont flick John Cusack signed on for ages ago? The one that was going to give us a 51-minute chase scene? It was appropriately named Stopping Power, and it had so much flipping power that it stopped its own production back in October. Co-star Melissa George then swore it was still in the works, but that never went anywhere, and now Cusack is pissed. TMZ reports that he's filed a lawsuit against Intermedia Film Equities USA (you can see the documents on the site).According to the actor, the company convinced him to star in the ill-fated film, guaranteed that he would be paid $4.5 million, even if the movie didn't get made, and finally, that all of his expenses would be paid, which includes $50k to cover the cost of having his staff on location. Cusack's lawyer, Marty Singer, says that John got his butt to Germany, started production, and then was told that the company couldn't afford the guarantee. So, they're claiming the company fraudulently made these promises, and then wanted to renegotiate for a lower amount after ensnaring him. Johnny is looking for $5,600,000 plus punitives.
Will John win? Or, will Film Equities have the final stopping power?
1. I like John and his films, and although this whole deal is just the same as anyone in the relatively normal world getting shafted after travelling long distance for a job, trying to sue for $5.6m (am I reading that right?) seems a little excessive.
Cough up what he paid, but asking for that much? Well it seems a little... excessive.
Posted at 4:28PM on Jul 10th 2008 by Rufus