Stolen Character

[Cinetech]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? New York N.Y.

I had developed a character which I had planned to use in an upcoming film. The character is comedic in nature and very recognizable. I used to immitate this character for friends to get laughs, and it has recently come to my attention that my former business partner, who used to love to get me to imitate this character for his entertainment, has given this character to a group of filmmakers, for a film in which he is starring as the lead actor.
The character is being portrayed in the exact manner, wardrobe, and with the exact same mannerisms in this film...What recourse do I have?
I should also mention that I have witnesses who have seen me imitate this character that I've created on many occasions.

Thanks in advance for your help...

-RickWhat is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[Hot Topic]

You have to produce proof that you created the character, and that you hold a copyright on said character. Merely saying that others have seen you perform as that character and "know" that it's your creation is not nearly good enough.

If you were going to use it in an upcoming film, you should already know the above.