Mickey Mouseis finally in the hands of the public, to do whatever they want with him.
Well, in part.
But what does that mean?
Screenshot: Disney… but not really?
Simultaneously a lot and not much.
Why Is Steamboat Willie Entering Public Domain?
Legal copyright doesnt last foreverand was never meant to.
Screenshot: Disney (for real, this time)
Why Did It Take So Long for Steamboat Willie to Enter Public Domain?
What Can People Do With Steamboat Willie Now?
Most notably, unlike copyright, trademarks dont expire after a certain date.
What Will Disney Do?
Nothingand it doesnt really need to.
That will not change when the copyright in the Steamboat Willie film expires.
What Else Is Entering Public Domain Today?
Whats Next?
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