Yoko Ono is suing makers of the creationist propaganda film “Expelled” for using John Lennon’s signature song, “Imagine,” without permission. She also claims that “Expelled’s” producers made it look like she had authorized use. And, she’s worried about her image with fans around the world as custodian of Lennon’s legacy.
Ono’s lawsuit claims the producers did not ask for permission either because they knew they couldn’t get it or because they did not want to pay for the rights. It objects to the way “Imagine” is listed in the film's credits, saying it suggested to members of the news media and others that the song's use had been approved.
“Internet bloggers immediately began accusing Mrs. Lennon of ‘selling out’ by licensing the song to defendants,” says the complaint, filed this week.
The lawsuit calls “Imagine” Lennon’s signature song, saying it “has become closely associated with and is synonymous with John Lennon.”
“Expelled” producers are claiming their use of “Imagine” falls under fair use rights, and that they only used a small portion of the song.
Unfortunately, they’re likely on better legal ground than scientific ground with the movie itself.
And, as for her custodial legacy, well, that’s another blog for another time.
For more about the movie, see Expelled.
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