Balancing Power and Innovation: A Dilemma
Small and large businesses both face challenges during collaborative efforts that ultimately lead to legal disputes, including the difficulty of protecting copyright while simultaneously promoting innovation. With Disney as a case study, this article posits that legal professionals are tasked with finding the balance between encouraging stricter copyright protections, encouraging further innovation and creativity, and better defining contributory liability.
Steamboat Willie Enters Public Domain
On January 1, 2024, Steamboat Willie from Walt Disney Animation Studios entered the public domain. Disney successfully extended copyright through lobbying, but recent laws led to its expiration. Horror adaptations of Steamboat Willie are planned. Despite concerns, Disney's brand and trademark protections likely shield it from significant harm.
Differing IP Strategies Across Streaming Platforms
Warner Bros. Discovery is starting to utilize different licensing strategies to bring in new revenue. Other streaming providers, like Disney, prefer to have stronger control over their intellectual property so that it can provide a more unique streaming experience.