Apple and director M. Night Shyamalan face allegations that the Apple TV+ show Servant plagiarized elements from the 2013 film The Truth About Emanuel. The trial could result in $81 million in damages if the jury rules against Apple.
The Claims and the Trial
Director Francesca Gregorini, who created The Truth About Emanuel, claims that Servant lifted key plot elements and visuals from her film. Both works feature dark themes centered around reborn dolls, complicated mother figures, and a mysterious nanny. To decide if copyright infringement occurred, the jury will compare scenes from The Truth About Emanuel with the first three episodes of Servant.
The trial, expected to last two weeks, includes testimony from Shyamalan and the creators of Servant. Gregorini insists that similarities go beyond plot points, claiming entire scenes in Servant mirror her work.
Shyamalan’s Defense
Shyamalan’s defense argues that Servant began development before The Truth About Emanuel was released. They maintain that reborn dolls are not unique to Gregorini’s film. Shyamalan’s team also highlights the show’s supernatural elements and broader themes, which they say set it apart from Gregorini’s work.
Key Similarities and Differences
Both stories revolve around grieving mothers, a reborn doll, and a nanny deeply involved in the family’s life. However, the tones and plots differ significantly. The Truth About Emanuel is a psychological drama focused on a woman coming to terms with her own loss. Servant, in contrast, explores supernatural elements, including the mysterious transformation of the doll into a living baby.
Potential Implications
If the jury rules against Servant, Apple and Shyamalan could face an $81 million penalty. A ruling in Gregorini’s favor could set a legal precedent for handling intellectual property disputes in Hollywood.
