Copyright Battle Erupts: Alison Brie And Dave Franco's "Together" Faces $17 Million Claim

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Copyright Battle Erupts: Alison Brie and Dave Franco's "Together" Faces $17 Million Claim

The seemingly idyllic world of independent film has been rocked by a major copyright infringement lawsuit. Alison Brie and Dave Franco's critically acclaimed romantic drama, "Together," is facing a staggering $17 million claim, alleging significant similarities to an earlier, lesser-known screenplay. This high-stakes legal battle raises important questions about originality, inspiration, and the murky lines between homage and outright plagiarism in the creative industries.

The lawsuit, filed in the Central District of California, centers around the alleged unauthorized copying of substantial portions of a script titled "The Untitled," written by aspiring screenwriter, Michael Smith. Smith claims that "Together," which stars Brie and Franco as a couple navigating a relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic, shares strikingly similar plot points, character arcs, and dialogue with his own work. Specifically, the complaint highlights parallels in the portrayal of the couple’s evolving dynamic amidst confinement, their individual struggles with isolation, and the ultimate resolution of their conflicts.

Key Allegations in the $17 Million Lawsuit

Smith's legal team argues that the similarities extend beyond mere coincidence. They point to several specific scenes and sequences, alleging nearly verbatim replication of dialogue and narrative structure. The lawsuit seeks $17 million in damages, citing lost profits and harm to Smith’s potential future career opportunities. The significant sum reflects the financial success of "Together," which garnered positive reviews and considerable streaming viewership.

This isn't just another Hollywood spat; it's a pivotal case highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by independent filmmakers in protecting their intellectual property. While inspiration is often drawn from various sources, the line between legitimate inspiration and unlawful appropriation can be incredibly difficult to define.

The Importance of Copyright Protection for Independent Filmmakers

The "Together" lawsuit underscores the critical need for robust copyright protection, particularly for independent filmmakers who often lack the resources of larger studios. Securing copyright registration for screenplays is a crucial first step in safeguarding creative works against unauthorized use. This involves formally registering the script with the U.S. Copyright Office, providing a legal record of ownership and facilitating potential legal action in cases of infringement.

For aspiring filmmakers, this case serves as a cautionary tale. Understanding copyright law and proactively protecting your work is paramount. Consulting with intellectual property lawyers specializing in entertainment law is highly recommended, especially before seeking distribution or financing for your projects.

What Happens Next?

The legal battle promises to be protracted and complex, involving detailed analysis of both screenplays and expert testimony on the issue of substantial similarity. The outcome will significantly impact not only Brie and Franco, but also the broader independent film community. It will likely set a precedent for future copyright disputes, influencing how originality and inspiration are assessed in the entertainment industry. We will continue to update this story as it develops.

Related Articles:

• [Link to an article about copyright infringement in the film industry]
• [Link to an article about the importance of copyright registration]

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