Montreal Sandwich Shop Asks, Trademark, What Trademark?

The owner of a Montreal halal sandwich shop claims today she had no idea her business was in potential violation of numerous Hollywood trademarks. Vaï Burger, located in the borough of Saint-Laurent, uses iconic images from such films as 300, The Godfather, Scarface, Django Unchained, V for Vendetta and Desperado on social media and on site to sell a line burgers and sandwiches.

Images of Marlon Brando, Antonio Banderas, Jamie Foxx, Gerard Butler and Al Pacino appear on the restaurant's windows and walls. The appropriation extends to Vaï Burger's menu, where customers can order the Tony Montana, the Spartiate, the Desperado and the Parrain (Godfather).

When reached by telephone today, owner Rajja Sebti was incredulous.

"Thrift stores sell t-shirts with images of Marilyn Monroe. Do they own the trademark?"

Sebti later asked what steps Vaï Burger should take to address any potential lawsuits and confessed that the decision to use film posters to promote the restaurant was not hers.

"I have nothing to do with this. My three sons are in charge."

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