Marvel Blockbuster movie, Black Widow, star actress Scarlett Johansson has sued Disney over the streaming of the movie. She claimed that there was a breach of contract as the movie was released for streaming at the same time as its cinema release, hence depriving her of potential earnings. Ms. Johansson mentioned that according to their contract, Marvel Studios stated that Black Widow would be a “theatrical release” which she understood to mean that a certain period of time would pass before it would be streamed. This period usually lasts 90 days.
Disney has however replied that the release was in full compliance with her contract and that the dual release strategy had even put her in a position to earn more. Her legal action was said to be a callous disregard for the horrific and prolonged global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. On its first weekend, Black Widow made about $80 million from ticket sales in North America and about $78 million internationally. About $60 million was also made from Disney+ Premier Access rentals.
However, Matt Mueller, editor of industry publication Screen Daily, has said that he expected that the case would have been settled before getting to this stage. Many have also said that this case has tarnished the image of Disney and even Marvel Studios at large.
