M. Night Shyamalan's 'Servant' Faces $81 Million Copyright Lawsuit

Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan is currently involved in a major legal struggle over his Apple TV+ series Servant. The case, filed by filmmaker Francesca Gregorini, claims that Servant copied from her 2013 indie film The Truth About Emanuel, and seeks $81 million in damages.

Background of the Lawsuit

In January 2020, Francesca Gregorini sued Shyamalan, producer Tony Basgallop, and Apple TV+, alleging that Servant copied elements from her film The Truth About Emanuel. The film revolves around a heartbroken mother who forms a bond with a young woman who cares for a lifelike doll, which mirrors the plot of Servant. Initially rejected, the case was reopened in early 2022, resulting in the current trial.

Proceedings of the Trial

The trial commenced on January 14, 2025, with jurors assigned to assess the similarities between the two works. The defense team's goal is to demonstrate Servant's originality and fight charges of infringement. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for copyright law in the entertainment industry.

Implications for the Entertainment Industry

The conflict demonstrates the difficulties of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. It emphasizes the obstacles that authors have in securing their original works, as well as the potential penalties of suspected infringements. The trial's conclusion may have an impact on future legal norms governing copyright in the film and television industries.

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