Uma Thurman vs. Lancome: A fight over face value

French cosmetics firm Lancome and actress Uma Thurman are tussling over the use of her name and image in an ad campaign.

It goes something like this: The company asked for a ruling against the the "Kill Bill" star, whom it says is demanding $1 million for unauthorized use of her name and face on Canadian billboards and Asian websites after her contract expired.

Thurman's lawyer, Bertram Fields, said he was surprised by Lancome's lawsuit. Lancome and Thurman signed a two-year contract in April 2000 with an option to extend the agreement for another two years.

Under the terms, Lancome agreed to pay Thurman $5.8 million for the first two years and $3.1 million for each additional year, if the company exercised its option.

Lancome says the contract relieves the company of responsibility if third parties use her name and face after the contract lapses. Lancome's lawyer, Peter D. Raymond, said his client "can't control everybody out in the world."

But Thurman's lawyer says, "I'm delighted that the case will go before a jury. They got an enormous benefit throughout the world after the contract was over, and $1 million doesn't begin to do it."

I have no idea what all that means, but I say let Uma take the stand. It worked against her stalker, who was indeed convicted!

To be honest, I don't see why Uma Thurman's face is worth so darn much money. But that's just me.

Photo: WireImage