Los Angeles campaign ad faces copyright questions over film clip

The advertisement, which focuses on the delayed LAX Automated People Mover project, combines a clip of Bass discussing the train with a scene featuring Nathan Fielder questioning Elizabeth Holmes. Bass states, “The people mover is there you can see it,” before adding, “No, I’m saying it’s in its testing phase.”

The campaign attributed the interview footage to KNX News but did not explain the origin of the film clip.

The use of the footage has sparked debate online, with mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt questioning whether the Raman campaign utilized unauthorized recordings from a movie theater. Pratt expressed concern on X about the legality of using such recordings.

Recording a movie in a theater without permission can potentially violate copyright laws. However, it remains unconfirmed who recorded the clips or if Raman’s campaign secured permission for their use.

The controversy arises as Bass continues to face criticism regarding the airport people mover, now slated to open on or after Feb. 5, 2027. The 2.25-mile project has a development cost of $3.34 billion, averaging approximately $1.49 billion per mile. Delays are attributed to technical issues, inter-agency disagreements, and ongoing legal challenges.

Pratt, who was unsuccessful in the primary election, is now publicly commenting on the race as Bass and Raman prepare for Tuesday’s runoff. A recent UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll, conducted in partnership with the Los Angeles Times and released on Oct. 28, indicates a close race with both candidates receiving 40% support and 19% of voters undecided.