Disney goes after Star Wars-branded car wash site in Chile

The 'Star Wars' production company say similarities in the name and use of characters from the popular franchise would infringe copyright.

Walt Disney's production powerhouse, Lucasfilm, has taken legal action against a themed carwash situated on the outskirts of Santiago, Chile's capital, accusing it of infringing upon the iconic "Star Wars" franchise, as revealed by attorneys representing the carwash.

The establishment in question, aptly named "Star Wash," has been making waves on social media by showcasing its attendants decked out in costumes resembling beloved "Star Wars" characters, including Chewbacca, Stormtroopers, Boba Fett, and Cassian Andor. Instead of wielding blasters, they brandish hosepipes, and Darth Vader seemingly deploys The Force to summon cleaning cloths.

According to the legal representatives of Matias Jara, the carwash's proprietor, they are in the midst of the registration process with the Chilean patent authority, INAPI, when a lawsuit was unexpectedly served by Lucasfilm, the creator of the franchise.

The lawyers for Jara assert that the lawsuit was filed to impede the registration of the "Star Wash" brand, alleging that it could lead to consumer confusion by appearing affiliated with the renowned movie franchise. Notably, there have been no objections raised concerning the carwash attendants' cosplay.

Jara is vehemently contesting the lawsuit, with his legal team contending that the name "Star Wash" is sufficiently distinct from the "Star Wars" brand to preclude any likelihood of confusion. They argue that Lucasfilm's copyright, which primarily covers categories like toys, furniture, and non-alcoholic beverages, does not extend to the realm of automobile cleaning services.