'Together': Alison Brie And Dave Franco's Sundance Successor Hit With $17 Million Copyright Claim

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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'Together': Alison Brie and Dave Franco's Sundance Hit Facing $17 Million Copyright Lawsuit

Alison Brie and Dave Franco's critically acclaimed film, Together, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to considerable buzz, is now embroiled in a significant legal battle. A $17 million copyright infringement lawsuit has been filed against the filmmakers, alleging substantial similarities between Together and an earlier, lesser-known independent film. This unexpected development casts a shadow over the film's promising future and raises important questions about the complexities of intellectual property in the film industry.

A Sundance Darling Tarnished by Legal Troubles

Together, a romantic drama starring Brie and Franco, garnered significant praise at Sundance for its compelling narrative and strong performances. Many critics lauded its unique portrayal of a long-term relationship and its nuanced exploration of modern love. The film's success at the festival generated considerable excitement, leading to distribution deals and high hopes for a wider release. However, this positive momentum has been abruptly halted by the recent lawsuit.

The $17 Million Claim: Allegations of Copyright Infringement

The lawsuit, filed in California’s Central District Court, claims that Together significantly infringes on the copyright of an earlier independent film, The Long and Winding Road. The plaintiff alleges that Together borrows heavily from The Long and Winding Road's plot, characters, and dialogue, constituting a clear violation of copyright law. Specific examples cited in the lawsuit include similar character arcs, plot points, and even scenes that allegedly mirror those in the earlier film. The $17 million figure represents the plaintiff's claimed damages, reflecting the potential profits lost due to the alleged infringement.

What Happens Next? The Legal Battle Ahead

The legal battle promises to be protracted and complex. The filmmakers will likely mount a vigorous defense, arguing that any similarities between the two films are either coincidental or fall under the doctrine of fair use. Establishing fair use, however, requires demonstrating that the use is transformative, and that it does not unfairly supersede the market for the original work. This process involves detailed legal analysis and potentially expert testimony.

The Impact on the Film's Release and Future

The lawsuit casts a significant shadow over the future of Together. While the film’s distribution deals remain intact for now, the legal proceedings could delay its release or even lead to its withdrawal from circulation. The outcome of the case will not only determine the financial liability of the filmmakers but will also significantly impact the film's legacy and its potential reach to audiences. This case serves as a stark reminder of the considerable legal risks involved in filmmaking, especially in navigating the often-murky waters of copyright law.

Similar Cases and the Importance of Copyright Protection

This is not an isolated incident. The film industry regularly grapples with copyright infringement cases, highlighting the critical importance of thorough legal review before production and distribution. Cases such as this emphasize the need for independent filmmakers and established studios alike to prioritize copyright protection and to ensure their work is legally sound. [Link to an article on high-profile copyright cases in the film industry]

Conclusion: A Waiting Game for Fans and Filmmakers Alike

The future of Together now rests in the hands of the courts. While fans eagerly await the film's release, the legal battle unfolding will determine its fate. This situation serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the complexities of copyright law and the significant risks involved in the creative process. The outcome will undoubtedly have ramifications for future independent filmmakers, urging them to prioritize thorough legal counsel to protect their creative work.