Goldove Entertainment has filed a lawsuit against distribution partner Wild About Movies, alleging fraud and breach of contract following the underwhelming performance of its sci-fi thriller Lumina. The lawsuit, filed on Monday in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims that Wild About Movies misled the company about the number of theatres that would screen the film, leading to a significant financial loss.
After the COVID-19 pandemic hindered the original release plan, Goldove decided to take the reins of distribution for Lumina, rather than working with a sales agent. The company invested heavily in marketing, including life-sized standees, a large-scale sweepstakes offering tens of thousands of dollars in prizes, and an extensive promotional campaign. Goldove hoped that the film would gross at least $20 million in its opening week and spent approximately $4 million on marketing to achieve that goal.
The film’s actual box office performance was far less impressive. In its opening week, Lumina made just $23,000 across 200 screens, a far cry from the anticipated success. Goldove blames Wild About Movies for the failure, claiming that the distribution company falsely promised to secure screenings at over 1,000 theatres, with prime showtimes that would allow the movie to build momentum through word-of-mouth.
According to the lawsuit, Wild About Movies misrepresented that Lumina would be shown on at least 300 screens at AMC Theatres and 500 screens at Regal and Cinemark. However, the actual theatre count was far lower, with many screenings taking place in remote locations at off-peak times and for only one or two days.
The complaint also highlights that Wild About Movies failed to meet its contractual obligations, including securing promotional screenings and providing timely box office reports. Goldove accuses the company of “duplicity, sabotage, and ineptitude,” alleging that Lumina’s release was mishandled to the point that it quickly disappeared from theatres. The film’s failure led Goldove to scramble for alternative distribution options, adding to the damages already incurred.
Wild About Movies CEO Timothy Nasson has denied the allegations and plans to countersue for fraud, harassment, and libel. Nasson defended the company’s actions, stating, “The movie made $23,000 on 200 screens in the first seven days. They’re taking the fact that it bombed, and they’re trying to blame someone.”
Lumina, which explores an alien abduction and the search for the abductee by her fiancé, features a cameo by actor Eric Roberts and was edited by Academy Award-winning editor Thom Noble. Directed and written by Gino McKoy, the film was produced by Goldove Entertainment, with McKoy and his parents forming the company’s executive leadership.
The lawsuit seeks damages equivalent to the $4 million Goldove spent on marketing, as well as compensation for the financial setback caused by the film’s disappointing release.
