The New Era of Copyright Expiration

This chapter delves into the ramifications of copyright expiration, focusing on the case of Winnie the Pooh entering the public domain and paving the way for new adaptations. It examines the historical evolution of copyright laws, the shift in creative freedoms, and how iconic characters like Mickey Mouse are now being strategically protected as trademarks. The discussion also highlights the internet's influence on copyright perceptions, legal challenges faced by digital platforms, and Hollywood's reliance on reimagining classic works in an era of impending copyright expirations.