Sundance Film "Together": Alison Brie And Dave Franco Face Copyright Infringement Claim

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

4.3

Share

Sundance Film "Together": Alison Brie and Dave Franco Face Copyright Infringement Claim

The Sundance Film Festival, known for launching promising independent films, is currently facing a shadow over one of its entries. Alison Brie and Dave Franco's directorial debut, "Together," a seemingly heartwarming portrayal of a couple navigating a pandemic lockdown, is embroiled in a copyright infringement lawsuit. This unexpected controversy throws a wrench into the film's post-festival buzz and raises questions about the complexities of artistic inspiration versus outright plagiarism.

The lawsuit, filed earlier this week, alleges that significant portions of "Together's" script and storyline are strikingly similar to an unpublished screenplay titled "Quarantine," written by independent filmmaker, Mark Olsen. Olsen claims he submitted "Quarantine" to several production companies in 2020, including some with connections to Brie and Franco's production team. He alleges that key plot points, character arcs, and even specific dialogue mirror his original work, suggesting a clear case of unauthorized copying.

Striking Similarities and Legal Ramifications

According to Olsen’s legal representatives, the similarities extend beyond mere coincidences. They cite examples such as the central conflict—a strained relationship tested by prolonged confinement—and specific scenes involving online grocery shopping, virtual game nights, and escalating arguments over household chores. These shared elements, they argue, are not generic tropes of pandemic-era storytelling but rather unique and specific narrative choices.

The legal battle ahead is expected to be complex. Proving copyright infringement requires demonstrating both ownership of the original work and substantial similarity between the two works. This often involves expert testimony from screenwriters and legal professionals specializing in intellectual property. The outcome could have significant implications for both "Together's" distribution and the future careers of Brie and Franco. While many indie films draw inspiration from various sources, the line between homage and infringement can be blurry, and the courts will need to determine whether “Together” crossed it.

The Impact on "Together's" Future

The copyright claim casts a significant shadow over the future of "Together." While the film garnered positive reviews at Sundance, this legal battle could potentially halt its distribution plans. Distributors are likely to be hesitant to invest in a film entangled in a costly and time-consuming lawsuit. The controversy also affects the film's reputation, potentially diminishing its audience appeal.

The situation highlights the challenges faced by independent filmmakers, particularly in navigating the complexities of copyright law. Securing legal counsel early in the development process is often crucial in preventing such disputes. The case serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly minor similarities in creative works can have significant legal consequences.

What's Next?

The legal proceedings are still in their early stages. Both sides are expected to present their arguments and evidence in the coming months. The case will undoubtedly attract significant attention within the film industry, serving as a cautionary tale about the importance of originality and the potential pitfalls of artistic borrowing. We will continue to update this story as it develops. Stay tuned for further developments in this evolving legal battle. For more news on film and entertainment law, be sure to check out [link to relevant news source or legal blog].