Alison Brie And Dave Franco's "Together": A Blatant Copyright Infringement?

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Alison Brie and Dave Franco's "Together": A Blatant Copyright Infringement?

The pandemic lockdown spawned a surprising number of creative projects, some brilliant, some… less so. Among them was the film Together, starring real-life couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco. While the film garnered some attention for its intimate portrayal of a couple navigating isolation, whispers of copyright infringement have begun to circulate, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of filmmaking in the digital age.

The controversy centers around the film's striking similarities to other works depicting quarantined couples. Critics point to uncanny parallels in plot points, character dynamics, and even specific scenes, leading some to accuse Brie and Franco of a blatant copyright infringement. But is it truly a case of plagiarism, or simply a coincidence born from a shared experience of lockdown life?

Striking Similarities Fuel the Debate

The accusations aren't based on flimsy speculation. Several online articles and forum discussions detail specific instances where Together seems to mirror pre-existing works. These comparisons often highlight scenes depicting arguments over household chores, anxieties about the future, and the challenges of maintaining intimacy under pressure. While the specifics vary from comparison to comparison, the overall thematic similarities are undeniable.

This isn't just about plot points, either. The visual style and overall tone of the film have also drawn comparisons, raising concerns about potential stylistic plagiarism. The use of natural lighting, close-up shots focusing on emotional nuances, and a restrained, naturalistic acting style all echo techniques employed in other films exploring similar themes.

The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Infringement

Determining whether Together constitutes copyright infringement is complex. Copyright law protects original works of authorship, including literary, dramatic, musical, and certain other intellectual works. However, the line between inspiration and outright copying is often blurred, especially in creative fields. Simply sharing similar themes doesn't automatically equate to infringement. The question becomes whether specific elements, like dialogue, scenes, or sequences, were directly copied without permission.

This case hinges on proving the extent of the similarities and whether they constitute substantial similarity—a crucial element in copyright infringement cases. While the similarities noted by critics are certainly striking, proving direct copying is another matter entirely. The creators of Together may argue that these similarities arose organically from the shared experience of pandemic lockdown, a universally relatable situation that might naturally lead to similar narrative developments.

The Impact of the "Lockdown Film" Trend

The pandemic undoubtedly influenced a surge in films exploring themes of isolation, confinement, and interpersonal relationships during lockdown. This shared thematic ground, combined with the limited number of realistic settings available during that period, may have inadvertently led to certain narrative and stylistic overlaps. It raises important questions about the originality of works produced under unusual circumstances. It also highlights the challenges faced by artists striving for authenticity while navigating the complexities of copyright law.

Ultimately, determining whether Together represents a genuine case of copyright infringement will require a thorough legal analysis. Until then, the debate remains open, highlighting the inherent ambiguity in defining the boundaries of artistic creation and the impact of shared global experiences on artistic expression.

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!