SASUKE vs. Wipeout

Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) Television has sued American Broadcaster ABC, claiming that the TV show "Wipeout" infringes on the copyrights of several Japanese programs. The show was on air from June to September; however the season ended so they are going to renew the program for another season. The concept of show is that contestants challenged by an athletic obstacle course which is similar to the TBS TV shows "Takeshi's Castle" in the 80's and "Sasuke" still-running show. TBS insists that Wipeout is too similar these shows. Furthermore, they mention infringment in few points which are obstacles, formats, and so on.
In this recession, it will be one of big profits to be paid copyright fee espacially from outside of country. TBS expressed their indignation among publics. This is rare case that Japanese media station has sued American media coporation.

This was an interesting article for me, that Japanese media corporation has sued one of major American media company. I agree with TBS's points, but not sure that this arguement will be taken as a copyright infringment. This issue has claimed in beginning of this October, so we must keep an eye on this issue during this class session, and see what is going to happen.

What do you think?

Sasuke http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YngvJENBfBI
Wipeout http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLLYiz_80-4