Copyright Battle Erupts: Alison Brie And Dave Franco's 'Together' Accused Of 'Blatant Rip-Off'

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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Copyright Battle Erupts: Alison Brie and Dave Franco's 'Together' Accused of 'Blatant Rip-Off'

The cozy confines of a pandemic lockdown-inspired romantic comedy, Alison Brie and Dave Franco's "Together," are facing a storm. The film, released on demand in 2020, is now embroiled in a bitter copyright infringement lawsuit, accused of being a "blatant rip-off" of an earlier, lesser-known work. This legal clash raises important questions about originality in filmmaking and the challenges faced by independent creators.

The lawsuit, filed in [Court Name] by [Plaintiff's Name], alleges that "Together" directly copies significant portions of their screenplay, "[Original Screenplay Title]". The plaintiff claims striking similarities in plot points, character development, dialogue, and even specific scenes. This isn't just about minor similarities, the suit argues; it's about a substantial and unauthorized appropriation of their intellectual property.

Key Allegations of Copyright Infringement

The lawsuit highlights several key areas of alleged infringement:

• Plot Structure: Both screenplays reportedly follow a similar narrative arc, focusing on a couple confined to their home amidst a crisis (though the crisis differs). The plaintiff contends that the core emotional journey of the characters and the overall plot structure are virtually identical.
• Character Development: Specific character traits and relationships are alleged to be mirrored in "Together," with the plaintiff arguing that character arcs and motivations have been directly lifted.
• Dialogue Similarities: The lawsuit points to numerous instances of strikingly similar dialogue between the two works, suggesting direct copying rather than coincidental parallel development.
• Scene Recreation: Several scenes, according to the plaintiff, are almost exact replicas in terms of setting, action, and dialogue, further strengthening the claim of copyright infringement.

The Impact on Independent Filmmakers

This lawsuit has significant implications for independent filmmakers. It underscores the vulnerability of smaller projects to larger productions, highlighting the challenges of protecting intellectual property in a competitive industry. Many independent filmmakers rely on bootstrapping and limited resources, making legal battles against established players incredibly daunting. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of securing proper copyright protection and pursuing legal recourse when infringement occurs.

The Response from Brie and Franco's Team

Representatives for Alison Brie and Dave Franco have yet to issue a formal public statement regarding the lawsuit. However, legal experts anticipate a robust defense, potentially arguing that the similarities are coincidental or fall under the doctrine of fair use. The outcome of this case could significantly impact future interpretations of copyright law in relation to independent film productions.

What Happens Next?

The legal process is expected to be lengthy and complex. Discovery will involve examining both screenplays in detail, comparing notes, and potentially interviewing those involved in the creation of both films. Expert witnesses may be called upon to analyze the alleged similarities and offer opinions on the extent of the infringement. The case could ultimately settle out of court, or it may proceed to trial, where a jury will decide the merits of the plaintiff's claims.

This unfolding legal battle serves as a cautionary tale for both established and aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the crucial role of copyright protection and the potential consequences of unauthorized appropriation of creative work. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further developments in this high-profile copyright dispute.