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

    • Infiltrated_ad8271@kbin.social
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      2
      ·
      edit-2
      1 year ago

      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.

      • arthurpizza@lemmy.world
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        5
        ·
        1 year ago

        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.