Popeye and Tintin Join Public Domain: New Opportunities for Creative Works

2023: A Landmark Year for Public Domain Works

As the new year dawns, a treasure trove of artistic creations have transitioned into the public domain, allowing creators to reuse and repurpose works without the constraints of copyright. This year marks a significant milestone, especially for works created in 1929, including beloved characters like Popeye and Tintin, now accessible for all to use.

Iconic Works Entering the Public Domain

Duke Law School’s Center for the Study of Public Domain has meticulously compiled a list of some of the most iconic works now free to use. These works not only encompass literature and films but also music from that transformative year in arts entertainment. Some highlights include:

• The Skeleton Dance - A pivotal Disney animated short from the Silly Symphonies series.
• Alfred Hitchcock’s Blackmail - The director's first sound film, setting a new standard in cinema.
• Singin’ in the Rain - The classic number featured in The Hollywood Revue of 1929.
• William Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury - A foundational piece in American literature.
• Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials Mystery - An engaging mystery novel continuing to thrill modern audiences.
• Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own - A powerful essay advocating for women’s rights.
• Popeye - Making his debut in E.C. Segar's Thimble Theatre comic strip with "Gobs of Work."
• Tintin - The earliest adventures of the intrepid reporter join the public domain, although not in Europe just yet.

The Case of Popeye

Popeye's introduction in 1929 was just the beginning for this iconic character. While the original Popeye embodies much of what fans adore, it's important to note that his famed association with spinach, enhancing his strength, didn't arise until 1932. As stated by Jennifer Jenkins, the director of Duke's Center, "Everything that he says, all of his characteristics, his personality, his sarcasm… that’s public domain." However, creators should tread carefully and verify any adaptations involving spinach.

Understanding Tintin's Public Domain Status

Fans of Tintin will be excited to learn that the young reporter and his loyal dog Snowy are now in the public domain in the USA. However, European fans need to wait a bit longer due to copyright laws extending up to 70 years post-author’s death. Since Hergé (the creator of Tintin) passed away in 1983, Europe will not see Tintin in the public domain until 2054.

Historical Context and Legislative Impact

The public domain landscape has been shaped by significant legislative actions. In 1998, lawmakers extended copyright protections for works created from 1923 onwards, influencing many cultural icons, including Mickey Mouse. Thankfully, the Steamboat Willie-era Mickey Mouse entered the public domain last year, with more characters, including films and animations, expected in upcoming years.

The Future of Public Domain Works

As the trend continues, the public domain will soon welcome even more characters. Notably, Betty Boop and Pluto will join the ranks in 2026, offering new opportunities for creativity across various media platforms.

Encouraging Creative Adaptations

With a wealth of works entering the public domain, from timeless literature to classic animations, creators and filmmakers are already gearing up for adaptations and inspired works. Netflix is rumored to adapt Agatha Christie’s The Seven Dials Mystery, demonstrating the potential for revitalizing these stories and characters.

Conclusion

2023 is set to be an exciting year for creatives, with a myriad of iconic works now available for collaboration, reinterpretation, and innovation. Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, or artist, now is the time to explore the vast landscape of public domain material and bring these historic works to new audiences.