
Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith say they're not to blame for a movie that made absolutely no money.
In legal papers filed Feb. 5 in L.A. County Superior Court, the Hollywood power couple claims the guy who financed the movie is threatening to sue them because he believes they "guaranteed" a return on an investment to get him on board. According to TMZ, the Smiths claim they "made no such representations."
When news first broke out that Jada would be writing and directing her first film called 'The Human Contract,' some saw it as a breakthrough in the African American community. After all, except for Troy Beyer, who directed Nick Cannon in 'Love Don't Cost A Thing,' there weren't that many high profiled actresses-turned-directors in the game.
The completed film was first shown at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival, hoping to a land a distributor. It was also shown at the Chicago Film Festival, where the Hollywood Reporter stated that "Pinkett Smith clearly understands cinematic aesthetics, and her bold storytelling bespeaks the skill of a veteran filmmaker." With husband Will Smith on board as one of the producers through his company Overbrook Entertainment and with the success they have had with his films, many wondered why suitors weren't lining up at the door.
With little-known actors Jason Clarke and Paz Vega in the lead roles, and Idris Elba, Ted Danson, Joanna Cassidy and Jada Pinkett-Smith, herself, contributing supporting parts, the film was eventually picked up but went straight to DVD in June 2009 through Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Sony happens to be the distributor to Smith's last six of seven blockbuster films.
A rep for the couple told TMZ, "Although we normally shun this type of controversy, we felt compelled to respond to the baseless threats and absurd allegations put forth by Mr. David Grasso's counsel."


Comments: (96)
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By: Kathy on 2/09/2010 7:10PM
It really doesn't matter whether they're to blame for its failure or not. The point is, even if they *were* stupid enough to guarantee someone a return (and I can't see Will Smith as being that stupid), who in their right mind would actually buy in on that kind of crystal ball promise? ANYONE who puts up money for an artistic venture should know that it's essentially venture capital -- or if you're feeling pessimistic, a hedged gamble. How many really well-made movies have flopped, and how much pure trash has cleaned up at the box office? Get real! If you're looking for a guaranteed return on a movie, you're just plain kidding yourself. The right talent can help; if Will or Denzel or Tommy Lee or a handful of others had starred, there'd have been large numbers of people who'd go see it just because we have come to expect quality shows from them, but with new or relatively unknown talent, it's just simply a gamble.
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By: Jack Meyhoffer on 2/09/2010 7:26PM
Howard Stern is the next American Idol judge. Just wait for all the "BABABOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOEYS" coming from the crowd.
Howard Stern's ballsack!!!!!!!!!!
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By: Jo Ann on 2/09/2010 7:35PM
Don't see it as a blockbuster however, it does look interesting and I watch alot of movies. I never heard of this one, until now. Maybe poor advertisement is to blame. I will look for it now to watch.
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By: Alvett K Salmon on 2/09/2010 7:44PM
I wanted to see this movie. One of the things I've learned is if a movie cuts to close it bombs. People don't like to see themselves. They want to be entertained. 24/7. Well I like to feel. I like to learn. I like to laugh because It resonated not because it was drunk and/or stupid.
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By: Shelia on 2/10/2010 10:04AM
Seen movie - I liked it so all I am gonna say is...... everyone is ENTITLED their own opinion.
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By: mo on 2/14/2010 6:35PM
looks really bad to be honest, I don't care who made it. Still probably wouldn't watch it. Whoever gave it good reviews was obviously kissing some ass
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