Scorsese reps call lawsuit 'meritless'

NEW YORK, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Martin Scorsese's representatives say Cecchi Gori Pictures' breach-of-contract lawsuit against the Hollywood filmmaker is "shocking" and "meritless."

"It is shocking to us that the lawyers for Cecchi Gori Pictures would file a suit pursuing such absurd claims considering the amicable working relationship existing between Martin Scorsese and the principals of Cecchi Gori Pictures," Scorsese's representatives said in a statement. "The claims asserted are completely contradicted by, inconsistent with and contrary to the express terms of an agreement entered into by the parties last year. The lawsuit filing on the eve of Mr. Scorsese starting another picture has all the earmarks of a media stunt. Mr. Scorsese is confident that he will prevail in court should Cecchi Gori Pictures actually pursue this meritless action."

Cecchi Gori Pictures sued Scorsese in Los Angeles County Superior Court a week ago, alleging the Oscar-winning director broke his contract by delaying work on its film "Silence" this year, so he could do "The Wolf of Wall Street," starring Leonardo DiCaprio.