Richards, according to the Associated Press, has filed a $10 million lawsuit against Miramax, which had agreed to produce the film with Richards' company, PCC (The Producer Circle Company).

Richards was one of the producers of the original Broadway mounting of Chicago in 1975. After its first Broadway run, Richards bought the film rights to the musical for $500,000.

The film, which was directed by Rob Marshall, grossed more than $300 million worldwide, becoming the most profitable of any film produced by Miramax. PCC says that Miramax has failed to pay the company the percentage it is rightfully due. Court papers state, "While PCC is unable to determine with precision the amounts that it is owed, it estimates that Miramax' breach of contract has cost it no less than $10 million." PCC also claims Miramax has shortchanged PCC with profits from DVD sales and foreign distribution of the film.

"Chicago" — based on the award-winning John Kander/Fred Ebb musical of the same name — opened nationwide Feb. 8, 2003. Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger and Richard Gere, the motion picture garnered six Academy Awards in all, including one for Zeta-Jones for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of killer showgirl Velma Kelly. Other "Chicago" Oscar winners included John Myhre and Gord Sim for Best Art Direction, Colleen Atwood for Best Costume Design, Martin Walsh for Best Film Editing and Michael Minkler, Dominick Tavella and David Lee for Best Sound.

The revival of Chicago continues to pack in audiences at the Ambassador Theatre.