2008, Courts Award Barbie What Is Rightfully Hers
2008 goes down in history as the year Mattel’s lawyers triumphed in a copyright court case against the maker of the popular Bratz dolls, MGA Entertainment.
A California court ruled that the creator of Bratz dolls, Carter Bryant, came up with the idea while he was working for Mattel.
This was in line with Mattel’s claim that both the name and design of Bratz dolls was based on drawings done by Carter Bryant while he was under a contract that entitled the world’s biggest toymaker to his designs.
MGA argued that while Mr Bryant had worked for Mattel between 1995 and April 1998 and then again from January 1999 to September 2000, the idea had come to him in the gap between his two stints.
The verdict could reshape the fashion-doll market, which has focused on the intense rivalry between Mattel’s Barbie and the edgier Bratz line in past years.
The four original Bratz dolls - Cloe, Sasha, Yasmin, and Jade - are teenagers distinguished by large heads and skinny bodies, almond-shaped eyes adorned with eyeshadow, and lush, glossy lips. Their wardrobes consist of fishnet stockings, rhinestone-studded microminis, ankle-laced stiletto sandals and similar extreme wear. Interestingly enough, to change their shoes, the entire foot must be removed.
A few Barbie and Bratz tidbits
- Barbie\’s Latest Film: Barbie as the Island Princess (2007)
- Bratz Boyfriends: Cameron and Dylan
- Barbie\’s Boyfriend: Ken