Simon Stephenson Sues Director Alexander Payne for Plagiarism
The writer alleges that his screenplay Frisco was improperly used in the production of the film The Holdovers.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Arthouse
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Writer Simon Stephenson has filed a lawsuit in California federal court accusing director Alexander Payne of plagiarism. The suit claims elements of Stephenson's screenplay, Frisco, were used in the Oscar-nominated film The Holdovers without permission.
Why it matters
The case raises significant questions about intellectual property rights and the reuse of creative materials in major film productions. It highlights the potential legal risks filmmakers face when evaluating scripts across different development cycles.
The litigation involves a script spanning 13 years of development history compared to the 3 years since The Holdovers earned an Academy Award nomination. The court has not yet ruled on the underlying plagiarism allegations.
The players
Simon Stephenson
He is an accomplished writer known for his work on the film Luca.
Alexander Payne
He is a prominent film director recognized for his work on projects like The Holdovers.
The details
Stephenson alleges that Payne had access to his screenplay, Frisco, on multiple occasions before the production of The Holdovers. The complaint specifically contends that key elements from the original work were incorporated into the finished film.
Timeline
Alexander Payne read the screenplay in 2013.
Alexander Payne read the screenplay again in 2019.
The Holdovers earned an Academy Award nomination in 2023.
The lawsuit filing was confirmed on October 28, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This case follows a pattern set by high-profile intellectual property disputes that emerge after a film receives significant critical acclaim like the 2023 Academy Awards. It reflects the ongoing challenge of protecting original scripts within a competitive studio ecosystem.
This lawsuit does not immediately affect the availability of The Holdovers on streaming platforms or home media for audiences. Viewers can continue to access the film through existing distribution channels while the legal process unfolds in court.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining clear documentation when sharing creative works in the industry. Aspiring writers should ensure they properly register their intellectual property to establish a clear timeline of ownership.
Further reading
For more on the legal hurdles facing independent filmmakers, visit the Arthouse section.
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