By Sohaib Shams
A professional tarot card reader is suing cinema chain Vue for £12.7 million, claiming a defective seat that collapsed during a 2015 screening ruined his career as a psychic and actor.
Accident in Islington
Marcus Hunefalk-Franzen, 60, was watching a matinee at Vue's Islington cinema in September 2015 when his seat suddenly gave way as he stood up. He was thrown forward into the row in front, suffering whiplash, chronic neck and back pain, and impaired hearing, taste and smell. Investigations later found that bolts anchoring the chair to the floor were missing.
Escalating claim
Vue Entertainment Ltd admitted liability, but the value of the claim has risen sharply over the years. Initially valued at £50,000, then £200,000, Hunefalk-Franzen now seeks £12.7 million. He argues that an online psychic platform called 'MyPsychicEye' and a unique acting-coaching venture would have earned him more than £1.5 million to date, with future annual earnings exceeding £1 million and a potential £3 million sale upon retirement.
Defence cites pre-existing conditions
Vue's lawyers contend the claim is worth only £8,000 to £12,500. They point to medical records showing a history of fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome dating to 2008, neck pain from 2009, and a brain injury in 2004. The defence also notes that Hunefalk-Franzen did not report immediate severe neck or leg pain on the day of the accident.
Lengthy delays and latest hearing
The case has faced repeated postponements. A trial once expected by February 2025 is now set for the end of 2027. At a recent pre-trial hearing, Judge Alan Saggarson refused permission for a revised expert report, citing a missed filing deadline and stating the new report was essentially identical to one already before the court. The judge also noted that Hunefalk-Franzen, who is representing himself, suffers from cognitive difficulties affecting his ability to process large amounts of information.
In addition to lost earnings, the claimant is seeking over £12,000 for past 'respite travel' holidays and thousands more for a 15-year supply of orthopaedic shoes.
