Warner Music Group faces a copyright infringement lawsuit over unauthorized use of archival footage in their 2021 Tom Petty documentary about the album 'Wildflowers' (1994).

Filmmaker Martyn Atkins, who served as Wildflowers' art director, claims that approximately half of the 90-minute documentary "Somewhere You Feel Free" contains his 16mm film footage used without permission. The footage was shot during the album's creation and subsequent tour.

Key points of the lawsuit:

• Atkins states the footage was not subject to a work-for-hire agreement or licensed to Petty or Warner Music
• The film reels were stored in Warner Records' facilities at Petty's suggestion around 1995
• In 2014, Petty and Atkins discussed creating a documentary using this footage
• In early 2020, Atkins met with Petty's daughter Adria and the estate manager, revealing the footage's location
• Atkins claims he was promised directorial involvement but was subsequently excluded from the project
• The footage was used without negotiating licensing fees or obtaining permission

The filmmaker seeks damages, disgorgement, restitution, and the return of his original film and audio materials. The case highlights the importance of proper documentation and licensing agreements in the music industry, especially concerning archival footage.

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