United Kingdom, March 20 -- Justin Baldoni's lawyer has accused Ryan Reynolds of "arrogantly asking to be dismissed" from a defamation lawsuit.

The 48-year-old actor recently filed a motion to dismiss Baldoni's complaint, insisting that the 'It Ends with Us' director's accusations have no legal merit - but Bryan Freedman, Baldoni's lawyer, has now hit back at the 'Deadpool' star.

Freedman said in a statement: "Mr. Reynolds now attempts to reduce plainly cognisable claims to 'hurt feelings,' sending a clear message that bullying is acceptable.

"After lighting a match, Mr. Reynolds now seeks to run from the flames. It won't work. The Wayfarer Parties' claims against him are real, and they are serious.

"Mr. Reynolds can appear on as many...