Intertainment Sues Comerica Over Films

Comerica Inc. played a key role in Franchise Pictures’ attempt to inflate budgets on films such as “Angel Eyes” and “Get Carter,” according to a suit filed by German licensor Intertainment.

Comerica was the production lender for most of the films at issue in Intertainment’s pending suit against Franchise. In 2000, Intertainment claimed the producer of “Battlefield Earth” overbilled its European licensing partner on 10 of 26 films. That case is set for trial early next year.

Comerica spokesman Keith Turner said the company doesn’t comment on pending litigation.

Comerica, Michigan’s largest bank, purchased Inglewood-based Imperial Bank in 2001 for $1.3 billion. Imperial’s Beverly Hills office was a major lender to small film companies, and Franchise was one of its largest entertainment customers.