2024 marks the 96th anniversary of Steamboat Willie, a black and white cartoon starring Mickey Mouse.
Created by Walt Disney and his studio, it was a watershed moment in cinematic history and pop culture.
It introduced the iconic rodent that became the cartoon character and Disney mascot everyone recognises today.
It was also lauded for its technical innovations in sound and animation.
Steamboat Willie’s copyright protection has expired so the cartoon alongside the original Mickey and Minnie Mouse has entered the public domain.
This also includes the silent version of Plane Crazy, which was realistically the first appearance of the mice.
The Public Domain is material not protected by copyright or trademark laws.
It sees regular entries every year and copyright protection expires after 95 years under US law.
Anyone can use this material without permission or extra cost but they can’t own it.
Mickey cannot be used to confuse people into thinking your work is sponsored by Disney.
This has been a highly anticipated moment for creators who can now rework, copy, and share Mickey and Minnie.
The characters can be used in multiple ways as long as they are the original versions.
For example, Mickey and Minnie can promote climate change by using Mickey’s boat grounded on a dry riverbed.
They can also be used in memes.
Mickey and Minnie’s other versions are still copyright owned as stated by Walt Disney Studios.
This includes the Sorcerer’s Apprentice in Fantasia and even the modern versions.
This isn’t the end of Disney and their identity will live on for eternity.
People will still watch their upcoming and released works, attend their international theme parks/resorts and buy their merchandise.
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