X-Men Animated Series Theme Song Sparks a Lawsuit
In 1992, Fox debuted X-Men: The Animated Series, and turned Marvel’s mutant heroes into TV superstars. Ron Wasserman’s iconic music for the series was also enjoyed by a generation of X-Men fans. However, a new lawsuit contends that Wesserman’s X-Men theme ripped off a Hungarian crime thriller over two decades ago.
Via Deadline, the lawsuit targets Marvel, Disney, Apple, Amazon Prime, X-Men producer Haim Saban, and more. The core part of the lawsuit argues that Wesserman’s theme was taken from Gyorgy Vukan’s music from the Hungarian TV series, Linda. Zoltan Krisko filed the lawsuit and claims to represent the late composer. Linda originally ran from 1984 to 1991, and it is largely unknown in America.
For comparison’s sake, here’s Wesserman’s X-Men theme.
And here is the theme from Linda.
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There does appear to be some similarity between the two themes. But they aren’t necessarily “identical” as described in the lawsuit. Krisko also claims that “the soundtrack of X-Men contributed in a substantial manner to the business success of the X-Men.” That’s an argument that will probably not hold up in court.
Krisko included Apple and Amazon in the lawsuit because the show is available on those platforms. However, Krisko will probably run into some problems if the case goes to trial. The length of time between the series’ debut and the lawsuit is 27 years. Krisko would also have to prove that he really does represent Vukan’s estate, and convince a jury that Wasserman lifted elements from Vukan’s theme. Krisko is representing himself in the suit, which may also reduce his chances to prevail.
What do you think about the two themes? Does Krisko have a strong case? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Previously on X-Men: The Making of an Animated Series
