But from what I’m understanding third parties will be able to use it at will to some extent, right? Disney must have an interest in keeping something so representative under tight control, even if it’s just the first version.
You can use the character without infringing the trademark. Part of the reason they scatter the hidden Mickey shape everywhere is because that’s part of the branding.
A good example of using the character without infringing trademark is the “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey” movie.
Mickey Mouse is no longer as relevant in Disney’s dominance anymore. They got bigger cash cows to milk.
Sure, but it is still the icon and mascot of disney.
That’s why it’s trademarked. Unlike a copyright, trademarks can last forever.
But from what I’m understanding third parties will be able to use it at will to some extent, right? Disney must have an interest in keeping something so representative under tight control, even if it’s just the first version.
You can use the character without infringing the trademark. Part of the reason they scatter the hidden Mickey shape everywhere is because that’s part of the branding.
A good example of using the character without infringing trademark is the “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey” movie.
Thanks, it seems I had quite the wrong idea, I’ll have to read up on the topic.
Even less so for the version in Steamboat Willy, which is all that would be released. Modern Mickey is not being released anytime soon.