The filmmakers behind the iconic sci-fi film “Blade Runner 2049” have filed a lawsuit against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, accusing the tech billionaire of using imagery from the movie to promote Tesla’s new robotaxi project. Filed on October 22, 2024, the lawsuit claims that Tesla’s promotional materials feature visuals and concepts that closely resemble scenes from the film.
According to the lawsuit, Tesla’s marketing campaign for its upcoming robotaxi service borrowed heavily from “Blade Runner 2049” without permission. The film, which is known for its futuristic depiction of a dystopian cityscape, is widely recognized for its influential design elements, and the creators argue that Tesla’s use of similar visuals amounts to intellectual property theft.
Legal analysts believe this case could set a precedent for how intellectual property from popular media can be used in tech marketing. Tesla has not yet commented on the lawsuit, but sources indicate that the company may argue that the imagery is part of a broader, widely accepted sci-fi aesthetic and not exclusive to “Blade Runner.”
The lawsuit is likely to stir debate over the line between creative inspiration and intellectual property infringement, especially as tech companies increasingly draw from popular culture to shape their visions of the future.
