Disney’s “Frozen” is facing a $250 million lawsuit from a woman claiming the hit animated film stole her life story.
TMZ reports Isabella Tanikumi is accusing the studio of stealing from her 2010 autobiography. Disney claimed the film was based on the fairy tale written by Hans Christian Andersen, "The Snow Queen."
“Frozen” follows the story of Elsa and Anna, two sisters who become distant after the death of their parents. Elsa is forced to “hide” her ice powers from Anna when she almost kills her while playing in their home. However, Anna accidentally reveals her secret during Elsa’s coronation as Queen of Arendelle.
According to The Independent, Tanikumi cites 18 instances where she believes Disney stole from her story. Check out the synopsis for Tanikumi’s autobiography “Yearnings Of The Heart” from the Amazon listing below:
"This is a compelling, introspective account of the life of Isabella Tanikumi, who takes her readers on a journey through various phases of her remarkable life- from her family’s survival during the devastating earthquake of 1970 in Huaraz, Peru, to the trials of overcoming heartbreaks of her youth. Conquering personal insecurities led to exploring the reaches of her intellect while facing the tragic, and untimely death of her beloved sister, Laura.
"Despite language barriers and the consequent obstacles of fitting in, Tanikumi wittily narrates her struggles with her assimilation into American life and culture. Forging many enduring friendships most notably with Julie, who rescued her from the depths of grief. Tanikumi also interweaves a dialogue with her long lost love Eduardo. This novel tacitily and expressly addresses Eduardo as a salient recipient of her reflections. Ultimately, Tanikumi is able to share her gratitude and joy as well as her insatiable thirst for life.”
The synopsis mentions no princesses, princes, talking snowman or gnomes. Disney has yet to release a comment regarding Tanikumi’s allegations.
