Disney Facing Backlash for Suing Small Star Wars Themed Car Wash in Chile
The Walt Disney Company finds itself in the midst of controversy as it takes legal action against a small Chilean car wash, Star Wash, situated on the outskirts of Santiago. This uniquely themed car wash, adorned with classic Star Wars font and character-themed decor, has gained international popularity, boasting an Instagram following of over 26,000.
Related – Disney/Lucasfilms Suing Star Wars Themed Car Wash
The establishment’s workers even dress up as iconic Star Wars characters while offering their car wash services. Despite its creative approach, when owner Matias Jara attempted to register the name Star Wash with the Chilean patent authority, Disney-owned Lucasfilm promptly filed a lawsuit.
Lucasfilm alleges that the name Star Wash could lead to customer confusion, associating the car wash with the Star Wars franchise. Jara contends, “They say our name ‘Star Wash’ leads to confusion as someone can come with the intention to buy a movie, a helmet, or a figure they sell,” emphasizing that their primary focus is on car washing and not selling movie-related merchandise. He adds, “We don’t make movies or sell their products or anything like that.”
Despite the legal challenge, Jara argues that the names are sufficiently distinct and questions whether Lucasfilm’s copyright extends to car wash services, noting, “We have a car wash named ‘Star Wash’ as it’s a stellar wash.”
Jara is now trying to gain up support for his business, posting a video of Darth Vader visiting the car wash with the caption: “In a galaxy plagued with conflicts, a legal battle of epic proportions emerges.
“At the center of this war, “Star Wash”, a modest family business, is caught in a confrontation with the imposing Lucasfilm Empire,” he says.
“We will stand strong, the force is with us.”
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