This iconic mouse is weeks away fromn being in the public domain Jan. 1, 2024, is the day when ‘Steamboat Willie’ enters the public domain
This iconic mouse is weeks away fromn being in the public domain Jan. 1, 2024, is the day when ‘Steamboat Willie’ enters the public domain
That’s why it’s trademarked. Unlike a copyright, trademarks can last forever.
But from what I’m understanding third parties will be able to use it at will to some extent, right? Disney must have an interest in keeping something so representative under tight control, even if it’s just the first version.
You can use the character without infringing the trademark. Part of the reason they scatter the hidden Mickey shape everywhere is because that’s part of the branding.
A good example of using the character without infringing trademark is the “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey” movie.
Thanks, it seems I had quite the wrong idea, I’ll have to read up on the topic.