A long-running legal dispute between Arrow Productions and VCX, concerning copyright and trademark claims over 1970s-era adult videos, is scheduled for a bench trial on March 13, 2012, in Las Vegas federal court. Judge Philip M. Pro has calendared the case, with a pretrial conference set for the week prior.

Background of the Dispute

Arrow Productions filed a lawsuit against VCX and its owner, David Sutton, alleging trademark and copyright infringement and counterfeiting. The six-count complaint specifically targets VCX's marketing of DVD copies of the 1972 film “Deep Throat.” According to the suit, VCX began selling copies of “Deep Throat” in 2009. VCX's website offers classic porn movies from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, including “Deep Throat” for $24.95.

Arrow Productions asserts ownership of the copyright and trademark for “Deep Throat”-related videos and products. The company also claims ownership of the trademark for Linda Lovelace, the pseudonym of the deceased actress Linda Boreman. Robert Interlandi, who leads marketing efforts for Arrow Productions, stated that VCX's actions constitute piracy.

Interlandi specifically mentioned David Sutton, CEO of VCX, noting that Sutton is also involved with an anti-piracy board within the adult industry. Interlandi stated that Sutton is being sued for trademark and copyright infringement related to the alleged pirating of “Deep Throat.”

VCX's Response and Counterclaims

David Sutton, President of VCX, characterized the lawsuit as "posturing." Sutton stated that Arrow Productions initiated the conflict by re-releasing “Debbie Does Dallas” and “Devil in Miss Jones” in 2006, videos that VCX had also re-released. Sutton expressed surprise at the lawsuit, calling Arrow's premise "bullshit" and indicating that VCX's actions were a response to Arrow's earlier re-releases.

Sutton also stated that he is a prominent advocate against piracy, asserting, "There is not a voice louder than mine advocating against piracy." He concluded that the case requires a court decision. The film “Deep Throat” was produced by Louis "Butchie" Peraino, owner of Plymouth Distributing.

Trial Details

The bench trial is set for March 13, 2012. Judge Philip M. Pro placed the case on the docket at the Las Vegas federal court. Attorneys representing both Arrow Productions and VCX are scheduled for a pretrial conference one week before the trial date.

Key Facts

  • The trial involves Arrow Productions and VCX over copyright and trademark claims.
  • The case focuses on the 1972 film “Deep Throat.”
  • The bench trial is scheduled for March 13, 2012, in Las Vegas federal court.
  • Arrow Productions alleges trademark and copyright infringement and counterfeiting by VCX.
  • VCX owner David Sutton disputes the claims, calling the suit "posturing."
  • A pretrial conference is set for one week prior to the trial date.