"A Blatant Rip-Off": 'Together' Film Starring Alison Brie And Dave Franco Hit With $17 Million Copyright Suit

David

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Post on May 20, 2025

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"A Blatant Rip-Off": 'Together' Film Facing $17 Million Copyright Suit

The indie romantic comedy Together, starring Alison Brie and Dave Franco, is facing a significant legal hurdle. A $17 million copyright infringement lawsuit alleges the film's plot and characters are strikingly similar to an earlier, lesser-known screenplay. This unexpected legal battle threatens to overshadow the film's otherwise promising release and raises important questions about originality in filmmaking.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims that Together directly copies substantial elements from the screenplay The Proclamation, written by screenwriter and filmmaker, John Doe (pseudonym used to protect his identity pending further legal proceedings). Doe's legal team argues that the similarities extend beyond mere coincidences, encompassing core plot points, character arcs, and even specific dialogue.

Key Allegations of the Copyright Infringement:

• Similar Plot Structure: Both screenplays revolve around a central relationship facing unexpected challenges and ultimately testing the limits of commitment.
• Character Archetypes: The lawsuit points to near-identical character traits and motivations between the leads in both Together and The Proclamation. Specific examples of mirrored character development have been presented as evidence.
• Dialogue Parallels: The plaintiffs provide examples of strikingly similar dialogue exchanges between characters in both works, further strengthening their case.
• Significant Financial Losses: The lawsuit seeks $17 million in damages, representing the alleged profits generated from the Together film's distribution, arguing that these profits are directly linked to the unauthorized use of Doe's copyrighted material.

The Impact on the Film's Release and Future:

The lawsuit casts a long shadow over the already precarious landscape of independent filmmaking. The $17 million claim is substantial, potentially impacting the film's distributors and even leading to its removal from streaming platforms or theaters. While the legal battle unfolds, the film's marketing and promotional efforts are likely to be affected. The controversy surrounding the alleged plagiarism could significantly impact audience perception and box office performance, should the film remain available.

Copyright Law and the Challenges of Originality:

This case highlights the ongoing struggle to protect intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. Determining originality and proving copyright infringement can be complex, requiring detailed comparative analysis and expert testimony. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thorough due diligence and original creative work in filmmaking. Similar controversies, such as the ongoing debate surrounding the originality of certain storylines and character archetypes in popular media, underscore the need for greater transparency and robust legal protection for creators.

What Happens Next?

The legal process is likely to be lengthy and complex. Both sides will present evidence, expert witnesses will be called upon, and the court will ultimately decide whether or not copyright infringement occurred. The outcome of this case will have significant implications not only for the filmmakers involved but also for the broader creative community, potentially setting precedents for future copyright disputes within the film industry. We will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as they become available. Stay tuned for further developments in this high-stakes legal battle.

Keywords: Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Together, Copyright Infringement, Lawsuit, $17 Million, John Doe, The Proclamation, Film Copyright, Intellectual Property, Indie Film, Copyright Lawsuit, Film Industry, Plagiarism, Legal Battle.