Lecture Notes: Disney, Copyright, and Public Domain

Introduction

• Discussion about the transition of works into the public domain.
• Focus on Disney characters, specifically Winnie the Pooh and Mickey Mouse.

Winnie the Pooh

• Public Domain Status:

  • As of this year, Winnie the Pooh is in the public domain.
  • The consequence of this status is that anyone can use, distribute, or create new works involving the character without permission.
  • The character first appeared 95 years ago, making it eligible for public domain.

• Copyright Details:

  • Tigger, another character, will enter the public domain in 2024.
  • Pooh Bear's red shirt, an iconic Disney addition, is still under copyright.

• Creative Impact:

  • Introduction of a horror film "Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey."
  • Public domain status leads to increased creativity and new interpretations of the character.

Mickey Mouse

• Historical Context:

  • Mickey Mouse debuted in "Steamboat Willie" in 1928.
  • Original US copyright laws gave Disney exclusive control for 56 years.
  • Disney lobbied to extend copyright to 75 years in the 1970s and then to 95 years in the 1990s.

• Future Outlook:

  • Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain in about a year and a half.
  • Potential for new creative uses once Mickey is in the public domain.

General Discussion on Copyright and Public Domain

• Political and Historical Context:

  • Discussion on how political pressure previously extended copyrights for valuable characters.
  • Recent lack of pressure due to fewer valuable works nearing public domain status.

• Creativity and Adaptation:

  • Public domain status allows for creative adaptations, e.g., remixing Shakespeare or creating new Wizard of Oz films.
  • The importance of public domain in keeping works alive and relevant.

• Debate and Perspectives:

  • Opinions on whether popular works should be owned perpetually.
  • Examples of Disney's own adaptations of works that entered public domain, such as "Alice in Wonderland" and "Jungle Book."

International Variations

• Australia's Copyright Laws:
  • In Australia, works enter the public domain after 70 years.
  • Mention of James Bond's public domain status in Australia, allowing for creative freedom with the character.

Conclusion

• While Disney may continue to thrive with its array of properties, the shift in copyright laws presents opportunities for creativity and adaptation worldwide.
• Highlights the significance of public domain in fostering innovation and preserving cultural works.