Sohum Shah, the actor and filmmaker known for his role in Tumbbad, has stirred controversy by filing a copyright infringement lawsuit against Netflix. The issue revolves around Netflix’s global hit series Squid Game, which Shah claims bears a striking resemblance to his 2009 film Luck. In his legal action, he has accused both the creators of Squid Game and Netflix of copying the core concept of his film.
The 2009 Bollywood film Luck starred actors like Imran Khan, Sanjay Dutt, and Shruti Haasan and was directed by Soham Shah. It revolves around a group of individuals who, trapped by financial troubles, are forced to participate in a deadly game for the chance to win a huge cash prize. Shah alleges that this storyline is uncannily similar to Squid Game, where contestants also engage in life-threatening games to win money, a concept that has sparked this legal battle.
Netflix Denies Plagiarism Claims
In response to Sohum Shah’s accusations, Netflix has firmly denied any wrongdoing. A spokesperson for the streaming giant has stated, “This claim has no merit. Squid Game was created and written by Hwang Dong-hyuk, and we stand by that. We will defend this matter vigorously.” Netflix’s defense emphasizes that the South Korean series was the original work of its creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, and that the allegations hold no substantial ground.
Squid Game, which debuted on Netflix in 2021, became an international sensation, breaking streaming records and receiving widespread acclaim. Its success not only boosted the careers of its cast, including actors like Lee Jung Jae, Gong Yoo, and Anupam Tripathi, but also brought global attention to South Korean entertainment. The series, available in multiple languages, including Hindi, has garnered millions of fans, leading to high anticipation for its upcoming second season.
Details on the Upcoming Seasons of Squid Game
Amid the controversy, Netflix has announced the release date for the highly awaited second season of Squid Game. Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on December 26, 2024. The streaming platform has also revealed that a third and final season is already in the works, set for a 2025 release. Both upcoming seasons have been penned and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, with production under the banner of Firstman Studio. Kim Ji-yeon is serving as the executive producer for the series.
As Squid Game continues its successful run, the legal dispute with Shah adds a twist to the series’ journey. Whether the lawsuit will affect the future of Squid Game or Netflix’s plans remains to be seen.
Sohum Shah’s Tumbbad Sequel in the Works
While the legal case surrounding Squid Game garners attention, Sohum Shah is also in the spotlight for other reasons. His 2018 horror film Tumbbad, which became a cult classic in the horror genre, has been re-released in theatres. Interestingly, Tumbbad’s re-release has seen greater box office success this time around, earning ₹1.65 crore on its first day, surpassing its original opening figures.
Fans of the film have more good news to look forward to, as a sequel to Tumbbad has been officially announced. Shah’s horror masterpiece may not have initially made a huge impact during its first run in theatres, but it has since gained a loyal fan base. Now, with the promise of a sequel, fans are eagerly awaiting what’s next in the story.
