allegations of Misconduct in “It Ends With Us” Production
A legal dispute is unfolding concerning allegations of inappropriate touching and a lack of consent during the filming of the movie “It Ends With Us,” based on the novel by Colleen Hoover. The case, currently slated for trial in May, centers around actor Florence Pugh‘s claims against co-star Glen powell and executive producer Jamey Heath. The arguments presented in a recent hearing reveal a clash over the interpretation of consent within the context of intimate scenes and the boundaries of creative license.
Dispute Over Context and Consent
Attorneys for Powell argued that any physical contact between powell and Pugh was dictated by the requirements of the script and the depiction of their characters’ relationship. They emphasized that Pugh knew the film would contain “hot and sexy scenes” and that these scenes would be “steamy and turbulent.” Though, opposing counsel countered that this knowledge did not grant Powell carte blanche to touch Pugh without her explicit consent.
The debate highlighted the ambiguity surrounding improvisation in intimate scenes. Pugh’s legal team argued that while improvisation isn’t inherently off-limits, any physical contact outside the established choreography required a prior conversation and clear consent. They pointed to the increasing use of “nudity riders” and intimacy coordinators on film sets as evidence of evolving industry standards focused on actor safety and consent. Intimacy coordinators are becoming increasingly common in the film industry to ensure safe and consensual intimate scenes.
Differing Accounts and the Standard for Determining Misconduct
The hearing brought to light discrepancies in accounts of specific incidents. For instance, regarding an interaction with executive producer Jamey Heath, Heath claimed he entered a room after being invited, while Pugh and her hair and makeup team recall explicitly telling him “Whoa, whoa, whoa, no, no, no.”
Pugh’s attorneys presented evidence of instances where she was “kissed, nuzzled and touched” in ways she hadn’t agreed to during the filming of one particular scene. They argued that Phelps demonstrated discomfort by leaning back, which signaled a lack of consent. The central question becomes whether this reaction, and the degree of accepted risk inherent in performing intimate scenes, is something a jury should decide.
The Court’s deliberation
The judge took the arguments under advisement and will rule on the scope of the allegations to be presented to a jury. It remains possible that the judge could narrow the focus of the trial, limiting the issues the jury will be asked to consider. The outcome of this case could establish precedents regarding consent, boundaries, and actor safety within the film industry.
Key Takeaways
- The case centers on allegations of inappropriate touching and lack of consent on the set of “It Ends With Us.”
- A key point of contention is whether Pugh’s prior knowledge of the film’s intimate content implied consent to all physical contact.
- The discussion highlights the evolving role of intimacy coordinators and the importance of clear interaction and established boundaries during intimate scenes.
- The judge’s ruling will determine which claims will ultimately be considered by a jury.
