The Bulgarian producer of an espionage thriller sued Abigail Breslin, one of the films stars, on Friday, alleging that her hysterical and imaginary allegations against co-star Aaron Eckhart have imperiled the films release.
Dream Team Studios produced the film, entitled Classified, in Malta earlier this year. Eckhart plays a hitman who learns that his CIA handler has been dead for years. Breslin plays his daughter.
According to the lawsuit, the entire production almost ground to a halt when Breslin accused Eckhart of aggressive, demeaning and unprofessional behavior on set. Breslin alleged that his behavior placed her at various times in peril, and she refused to be alone with him in several scenes, according to the suit.
Breslin filed a complaint to SAG-AFTRA setting forth her fears and blasting Eckharts behavior, according to the suit. Eckharts representative did not respond to a request for comment.
Breslins representative told Variety that she has not yet been served with the producers lawsuit, and stands by her allegations.
Ms. Breslin categorically denies all contended allegations and unequivocally stands by her statement whichsheconfidentiallyprovided to SAG, the representative said in a statement.
The lawsuit alleges that in order to complete the film, the producer was forced to make costly accommodations totaling at least $80,000.
The lawsuit also states that the films on-set producer, Mr. Georgiev, was compelled by SAG-AFTRA set safety rules to prepare an investigative report on the claims.
His investigation found no evidence in support to (sic) Breslins wild, hysterical and imaginary allegations against Eckhart, the suit states.
The lawsuit also alleges that Breslin has since refused to sign her long-form contract, and has insisted on extra money to do so. Without Breslins signature, the producers have found it difficult to distribute the film, and are also unable to claim a tax credit from the Maltese government, the suit states.
The producers also allege there have been delivery issues to distribution partners as there are few scenes where Breslin and Eckhart are seen together.
Breslin received an Academy Award nomination for her role in Little Miss Sunshine, and has since appeared in August: Osage County, Enders Game and Zombieland: Double Tap. Eckhart is known for his roles in The Dark Knight and Thank You For Smoking.
Tim Roth also stars in Classified.
Malta provides generous cash rebates to film productions worth up to 40% of eligible production costs.
The lawsuit was first reported by Rolling Stone.