Disney's rights to young Mickey Mouse may be wrong
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-mickey22-2008aug22,0,3228580,full.story
Film credits from the 1920s reveal imprecision in copyright claims
that some experts say could invalidate Disney's long-held copyright.
By Joseph Menn
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
August 22, 2008
He is the world's most famous personality, better known in this
country than anyone living or dead, real or fictional. Market
researchers say his 97%% recognition rate in the U.S. edges out even
Santa Claus.
He is the one -- and, for now, only -- Mickey Mouse.
As Mickey turns 80 this fall, the most beloved rodent in show business
is widely regarded as a national treasure. But he is owned lock, stock
and trademark ears by the corporate heirs of his genius creator, Walt
Disney.
