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One of the rights that copyright protects is the right to make derivative works--such as sequels and film adaptations. If you consider that someone like Terry P
by jcranmer 5y ago
One of the rights that copyright protects is the right to make derivative works--such as sequels and film adaptations. If you consider that someone like Terry Pratchett can productively write a literary universe for decades, it feels to me like the best answer is around 30-50 years.
- bryanlarsen 5y agoIsn't that trademark? IOW, when Steamboat Willie's copyright expires, it doesn't give you the right to make a new Mickey Mouse film. Disney still has a trademark on Mickey.
- jcranmer 5y agoNo, trademark is entirely different IP. Copyright very explicitly protects the right to make derivative works. (See 17 USC §106 (https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/106 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/106) for the full list of what copyright actually protects.)
- bryanlarsen 5y agoBut if your copyright has expired, you can still prevent derivative works via trademark. Disney has trademarked Mickey Mouse.