Will Smith’s film, the slavery drama Emancipation, has stirred controversy. Released in 2022, the film received mixed reviews, largely overshadowed by the backlash Smith faced during its launch. However, the real drama appears to have unfolded behind the scenes.
Apple’s alleged threat to pull production
According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, Apple, the studio behind Emancipation, allegedly threatened to relocate the film’s production from Louisiana unless state lawmakers abandoned a bill that could impact its app store operations. Tanner Magee, a Louisiana legislator, revealed that an Apple employee warned him that if he supported a 2021 bill allowing app developers to use alternative payment systems, Apple would move the film elsewhere.
While moving a large film production is no simple task, this alleged tactic raises concerns about corporate overreach. Apple has denied these accusations.
Legal troubles from ‘Gemini Man’
As if the controversy surrounding Emancipation wasn’t enough, Will Smith is also embroiled in a legal battle related to his 2019 action film Gemini Man. The film, which grossed only $48 million in North America, features Smith as an assassin who faces off against a younger clone of himself.
According to In Touch Weekly, Smith is one of several defendants in a copyright infringement lawsuit. The plaintiff, Kissinger Sibanda, claims that his 2011 book inspired the film’s marketing strategy, alleging that themes, plots and characterizations from his work were used without permission. Sibanda asserts that he discussed his book with Smith’s stunt double in 2012, although he cannot recall the stunt double’s name. He also claims to have sent the book to the talent agency William Morris Endeavor, which typically does not accept unsolicited materials.
Smith’s comeback amid challenges
Despite these challenges, Will Smith recently made a notable return to mainstream popularity with the success of Bad Boys: Ride or Die. However, the actor likely prefers to focus on his recent achievements rather than being entangled in legal disputes over past projects.
As Will Smith navigates the complexities of Hollywood, the controversies surrounding Emancipation and the legal issues stemming from Gemini Man serve as reminders of the challenges faced by artists in the industry. While Smith continues to strive for success, the shadows of past controversies loom large, prompting discussions about the intersection of art, commerce and accountability in the film industry.
