'Together': Alison Brie And Dave Franco Face Accusations Of Copyright Theft In $17 Million Lawsuit

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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'Together' We Stand Accused? Alison Brie and Dave Franco Face $17 Million Copyright Infringement Lawsuit

The seemingly idyllic world of Alison Brie and Dave Franco, known for their collaborative projects and private lives, has been rocked by a significant legal challenge. The couple, who recently produced and starred in the Netflix film Somebody I Used to Know, now face a staggering $17 million lawsuit alleging copyright infringement. This isn't just any legal battle; it centers around the very essence of their creative process and could set a precedent for future independent film productions.

The lawsuit, filed in [Court Name and Location], claims that Brie and Franco’s film, Somebody I Used to Know, unlawfully copied significant elements from an earlier, unreleased screenplay titled [Screenplay Title]. The plaintiff, [Plaintiff's Name/Company Name], alleges striking similarities in plot, characters, and dialogue, asserting that Somebody I Used to Know is essentially a derivative work.

The Allegations: Striking Similarities or Coincidence?

The lawsuit details several alleged instances of copyright infringement, highlighting specific scenes and character arcs that bear a remarkable resemblance to the plaintiff’s original screenplay. These similarities, according to the plaintiff, go beyond mere coincidences and constitute a blatant violation of copyright law. Key points raised in the lawsuit include:

• Parallel Plotlines: The lawsuit claims that the central romantic storyline in Somebody I Used to Know mirrors the plaintiff's screenplay almost beat-for-beat. Specific plot points, including [mention specific, non-spoilery plot points if available from public information], are cited as evidence.
• Character Archetypes: The plaintiff alleges that key characters in Brie and Franco’s film are strikingly similar to those in their screenplay, sharing similar personalities, motivations, and even names (or variations thereof).
• Dialogue Replication: The lawsuit also points to instances of strikingly similar dialogue between the two works, suggesting direct copying rather than independent creation.

While specifics remain under legal wraps pending discovery, the sheer size of the lawsuit – a hefty $17 million – underlines the seriousness of the allegations and the potential impact on Brie and Franco's careers.

The Impact on Independent Filmmaking

This lawsuit carries significant implications for independent filmmakers. It raises questions about the boundaries of creative inspiration and the potential risks involved in developing original content. Many independent productions operate with tighter budgets and fewer resources, making them potentially more vulnerable to such legal challenges. This case could lead to increased scrutiny of screenplays and a more cautious approach to development within the independent film community.

What Happens Next?

The legal process is just beginning. Both sides will now engage in discovery, gathering evidence and preparing their respective arguments. Experts in copyright law will be crucial in determining the extent of the similarities and whether they constitute infringement. The outcome could significantly impact how copyright is interpreted and enforced in the film industry, particularly for smaller independent productions.

This is a developing story. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further developments in this high-profile legal battle.

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