Does this not sound like the title of a Sherlock Holmes novel? Who designed the shirt? Was it indeed stolen? Is there a conspiracy here?

The newest Judd Apatow production, stoner comedy “Pineapple Express,” starring Seth Rogen and James Franco as two buddies who share a love for the finer things in life, such as pot, has been met with predominantly positive reviews from critics. However, among the negative reactions, none is as virulent as that of Brooklyn-based T-shirt designer WOWCH, who has posted a long and angry message on its website’s blog, accusing “Pineapple” director David Gordon Green of having “ripped off” one of its designs.

James Franco stars as Saul Silver, a perpetually stoned dealer who is fond of wearing a grey t-shirt featuring a fierce shark holding a kitten within its teeth.

WOWCH says the idea is the company’s and that Cat-In-A-Shark T-shirts were available at Urban Outfitters stores in 2005.

WOWCH also goes on to heavily criticize James Franco for career choices and whatnot.

Asked by the New York Daily News whether WOWCH’s claim is true, Franco exclaimed that “we completely created that shirt and that shark.” The actor said the idea for the shark carrying the cat was director David Gordon Green’s.

The truth is yet to be learned. WOWCH meanwhile has decided to let those interested get their own original for $25.