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Blair Witch Actors Demand Retroactive Payments and Creative Input
A recent announcement from Lionsgate detailed plans for another installment in the Blair Witch movie series. The iconic franchise, which commenced with the groundbreaking “The Blair Witch Project” in 1999, has experienced intermittent activity over the years, with subsequent films exploring the aftermath of the original movie. As the 25th anniversary of the first film approaches in July, the original cast members have come forward to assert their entitlement to retroactive and ongoing residual compensation.
Actors Heather Donahue, Michael Williams, and Joshua Leonard have jointly communicated their request to Lionsgate, seeking fair financial recompense for their contributions to the Blair Witch universe. They contend that the residuals owed to them should mirror what they would have received had they been represented appropriately by SAG-AFTRA or a legal team during the late ’90s. Moreover, in a bold move, the trio has expressed a desire to exert “meaningful consultation” on future Blair Witch projects, regardless of whether they involve prequels, sequels, reboots, video games, or other formats that feature their likenesses.
In a plea to Lionsgate, the actors highlighted the disappointment of the franchise’s previous reboots, attributing their lack of creative involvement as a key factor in these outcomes. They emphasized the value of their insights and experiences as the original creators of the Blair Witch concept, underscoring the untapped potential they offer as a resource for future projects.
Additionally, Donahue, Leonard, and Williams proposed the establishment of a yearly $60,000 grant, equivalent to the budget of the inaugural Blair Witch Project, to sponsor an emerging genre filmmaker’s debut feature. This grant, characterized as a no-strings-attached financial support, would enable the recipient to retain full ownership of their work without any encumbrances from Lionsgate.
Support from Original Filmmakers
To bolster their position, the actors shared a public endorsement from directors Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez, along with producers Gregg Hale, Robin Cowie, and Michael Monello. The filmmakers lauded the enduring legacy of The Blair Witch Project and advocated for the acknowledgment of the pivotal role played by Donahue, Leonard, and Williams in shaping the franchise’s identity. They underscored the actors’ significant contributions to the film’s authenticity and lasting impact on audiences worldwide, affirming their status as integral figures in the Blair Witch narrative.
In conclusion, this unified stance from the original cast members and filmmakers underscores a crucial point of contention: the recognition and fair compensation owed to those whose creative input has defined the Blair Witch legacy. As discussions with Lionsgate unfold, the outcome of these negotiations may pave the way for a more equitable and collaborative approach to future projects within the franchise.
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