‘Wolverine’ Pops Up on Web

“Last night, a stolen, incomplete and early version of ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ was posted illegally on a website,” says a statement just released by 20th Century Fox. “It was without many effects, had missing and unedited scenes and temporary sound and music. We immediately contacted the appropriate legal authorities and had it removed. We forensically mark our content so we can identify sources that make it available or download it. The source of the initial leak and any subsequent postings will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law — the courts have handed down significant criminal sentences for such acts in the past. The FBI and the MPAA also are actively investigating this crime. We are encouraged by the support of fansites condemning this illegal posting and pointing out that such theft undermines the enormous efforts of the filmmakers and actors, and above all, hurts the fans of the film.” More details here from the BBC, which reports “the high quality copy of the film has been uploaded to several file sharing and streaming video websites.” Starring Hugh Jackman, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” opens stateside on May 1.