The producers of "Better Half" filed a lawsuit alleging that "Together" is a blatant ripoff of their film.
Lawyers for "Together" argue that the similarities are generic and not subject to copyright protection.
"Together" screenwriter Michael Shanks registered a draft in 2019, before "Better Half" was allegedly pitched to Franco and Brie.
The lawsuit highlights eerily similar sequences, including one where the protagonists are attached at the genitals and hiding in a bathroom.
The "Together" team insists the films differ significantly in tone and genre, with "Better Half" being comedic and "Together" leaning into supernatural body horror.
Why this matters: The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for copyright claims involving similar concepts in film. It also highlights the complexities of proving plagiarism when dealing with common tropes.
The lawsuit centers around the premise of a couple becoming physically stuck together. 'Better Half,' released in 2023, is a satirical rom-com, while 'Together' is described as a body-horror film. The plaintiffs claim that 'Together' copied unique aspects of their script, including specific scenes and references. However, the defense argues that the concept is unprotectable and that Shanks had already written most of 'Together' before 'Better Half' was pitched to Brie and Franco.
ScreenHub noted that Together review: Sydney Film Festival opener is freaky fun.
How to Prepare: Filmmakers should meticulously document their creative process to defend against potential copyright claims. This includes registering scripts with the Writers Guild of America and retaining all drafts and notes.
Who This Affects Most: This affects independent filmmakers and production companies, as they often lack the resources to defend against lengthy and costly lawsuits.
Q: What is the main accusation in the plagiarism lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges that "Together" is a ripoff of the indie film "Better Half," with both films featuring a couple who become physically stuck together.
Q: What is the defense of the "Together" team?
The defense argues that the similarities are generic, the concept is unprotectable, and the screenwriter had a draft registered before "Better Half" was pitched to the actors.
Q: What are some of the specific similarities cited in the lawsuit?
Similarities include a scene where the protagonists, fused at the genitals, must hide in a bathroom, as well as references to the Spice Girls and Plato’s Symposium.
Be aware of the potential legal risks when creating content with similar themes to existing works.
Document your creative process to protect against copyright claims.
Understand the difference between generic ideas and protectable expressions in copyright law.
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