What's Happening?
Morgan & Morgan, a law firm based in Orlando, has filed a lawsuit against Disney concerning the use of imagery from the 1928 short film 'Steamboat Willie'. The film, which marked the debut of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, entered the U.S. public domain in 2024. Morgan & Morgan seeks to use the film's imagery in a commercial without Disney's permission. Despite the film's public domain status, Disney maintains trademarks on the characters, arguing these protect their brand identity. The lawsuit aims to clarify whether using the imagery for non-entertainment purposes, with disclaimers, is permissible.
Why It's Important?
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the creative industry, particularly regarding the use of iconic characters that enter the public domain. If the court sides with Morgan & Morgan, it could set a precedent allowing broader use of such characters, potentially impacting Disney's control over its intellectual property. This case highlights the tension between public domain freedoms and trademark protections, affecting artists, companies, and fans who wish to use classic characters in new works.
What's Next?
The court's decision will be closely watched by stakeholders in the entertainment and legal fields. A ruling in favor of Morgan & Morgan could encourage other entities to challenge Disney's trademark claims on public domain works. Conversely, a decision favoring Disney might reinforce the company's ability to protect its brand through trademarks, even as copyrights expire.
