The 'Better Half' Movie Controversy: Everything You Need to Know
The indie film world has been buzzing about the Better Half movie. This 2023 release captured attention not just for its surreal plot but also because it recently landed at the heart of a major Hollywood controversy. In this article, we explore what makes the Better Half movie unique, the recent lawsuit, and how industry heavyweights like Dave Franco and Alison Brie are involved.
What Is the Better Half Movie?
Written and directed by Patrick Henry Phelan, the Better Half movie is an independent romantic comedy with a surreal twist. The story revolves around a man and a woman who share a one-night stand, only to wake up physically fused together. What follows is a journey through awkward, comedic, and thoughtful moments as they navigate their new conjoined reality. The film uses this bizarre premise to explore deeper themes of codependency, identity, and what it means to connect with another person.
The "Together" Lawsuit: A Battle Over Creative Ownership
In May 2025, news broke that the creators of the Better Half movie had filed a lawsuit against the team behind the upcoming horror film "Together." The indie producers allege that "Together," starring and produced by Dave Franco and Alison Brie, is a "blatant rip-off" of Better Half. According to the Variety report, the lawsuit points out several similarities—ranging from the central fused-couple concept to key scenes and even specific dialogue referencing Plato’s Symposium.
Further details surfaced in The Independent, where producers described the two films as "virtually identical." The suit claims that Franco and Brie were pitched the Better Half script in 2020 but passed, only for a strikingly similar movie to emerge starring the couple and directed by Michael Shanks. Allegedly, both films end with the leads pulling out a vinyl copy of the Spice Girls album—an oddly specific detail that adds fuel to the legal debate.
Industry Response and Reactions
Representatives for Franco, Brie, and their agency (WME) have dismissed the lawsuit as frivolous. In a statement cited by PEOPLE, a spokesperson asserted, "The facts in this case are clear and we plan to vigorously defend ourselves."
The case has raised larger questions about creative boundaries in the film industry and the challenges indie filmmakers face when their ideas reach Hollywood. Whether "Together" truly copied the Better Half movie or simply shares a common creative spark remains for the courts to decide.
Why the Better Half Movie Matters
Beyond the headlines, the Better Half movie stands out for its innovative blend of surreal comedy and heartfelt commentary on relationships. Its use of fantastical elements to examine real human behaviors has resonated with indie film fans and critics alike. The ongoing legal battle highlights how original stories from independent filmmakers can make a big impact—even beyond the screen.
Final Thoughts
The controversy surrounding the Better Half movie underscores the importance of protecting creative work and recognizing unique voices in film. Whether you’re a fan of quirky indie comedies or curious about Hollywood dramas off the screen, this story is one to follow closely.
For those interested in more details, read the full coverage on Variety, The Independent, and PEOPLE to stay up-to-date on this evolving controversy.