Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

Columns & DepartmentsThe Intellectual Property StrategistCopyrightsIntellectual PropertyLitigation

IP News

By Howard Shire and Justin Tilghman
December 01, 2023
|

Ninth Circuit Upholds Copyright Infringement Dismissal In 'Jangle Vision Twins' Case

In Jangle Vision, LLC v. Alexander Wang, Inc., No. 22-55642 (9th Cir. Oct. 26, 2023), the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld the dismissal of copyright infringement claims, based on a lack of substantial similarity.

Alexander Wang, the fashion giant known for its urban-inspired designs and use of black, was sued by Jangle Vision, LLC, an art collection founded by Claudia Diroma. Diroma claimed that Alexander Wang copied Jangle's "Jangle Vision Twins" artwork. As outlined in Jangle Vision's complaint, Diroma reportedly submitted various works, including the "Jangle Vision Twins," to Wang in hopes of employment. Wang allegedly showed great interest in the "Jangle Vision Twins," which depicts "two highly stylized, imaginary female figures distinguished by unnaturally shaped bodies in colored skins revealing only eyes, nose, and mouth." After submitting her portfolio, Diroma heard nothing back from Wang about a potential job. A few weeks later, however, she saw that the fashion company launched a social media campaign that depicted "tall, thin figures in skintight, solid-colored bodysuits with mask covering their faces and head."

The similarity between the figures in the advertisement and Diroma's artwork led Jangle Vision to file a copyright infringement suit against Alexander Wang, Inc. and Alexander Wang. Despite any perceived similarities, the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California granted Wang's motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim.

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
Top 5 Strategies for Managing the End-of-Year Collections Frenzy Image

End of year collections are crucial for law firms because they allow them to maximize their revenue for the year, impacting profitability, partner distributions and bonus calculations by ensuring outstanding invoices are paid before the year closes, which is especially important for meeting financial targets and managing cash flow throughout the firm.

The Self-Service Buyer Is On the Rise Image

Law firms and companies in the professional services space must recognize that clients are conducting extensive online research before making contact. Prospective buyers are no longer waiting for meetings with partners or business development professionals to understand the firm's offerings. Instead, they are seeking out information on their own, and they want to do it quickly and efficiently.

Should Large Law Firms Penalize RTO Rebels or Explore Alternatives? Image

Through a balanced approach that combines incentives with accountability, firms can navigate the complexities of returning to the office while maintaining productivity and morale.

Sink or Swim: The Evolving State of Law Firm Administrative Support Image

The paradigm of legal administrative support within law firms has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last decade. But this begs the question: are the changes to administrative support successful, and do law firms feel they are sufficiently prepared to meet future business needs?

Tax Treatment of Judgments and Settlements Image

Counsel should include in its analysis of a case the taxability of the anticipated and sought after damages as the tax effect could be substantial.