# Michael Mann Reclaims 'Heat' Screenplay Rights

> Michael Mann fights New Regency over copyright to original 'Heat' screenplay.
- Title: Michael Mann Reclaims 'Heat' Screenplay Rights · Variety
- Summary: Michael Mann fights New Regency over copyright to original 'Heat' screenplay. Michael Mann seeks to reclaim copyright to his original 'Heat' screenplay after…
- Keywords: michael mann, heat screenplay, new regency, copyright termination, work made for hire, Variety
- Source: Variety — https://variety.com/2026/film/news/michael-mann-new-regency-heat-screenplay-lawsuit-1236947532
- Author: Gene Maddaus
- Published: 2026-11-14T02:51:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: michael mann, heat screenplay, new regency, copyright termination, work made for hire, entertainment, culture
## Legal Dispute Over 'Heat' Screenplay
Michael Mann seeks to reclaim copyright to his original 'Heat' screenplay after New Regency claims it was a 'work made for hire'.
## New Regency's Copyright Claim
New Regency produced 'Heat' in 1995 and argues the screenplay remains their copyright as a 'work made for hire'.
## Mann's Termination Notice
Mann's lawyers sent termination notices earlier this year to reclaim the screenplay copyright.
## Key takeaway

Michael Mann seeks to reclaim copyright to his original 'Heat' screenplay after New Regency claims it was a 'work made for hire'.