'Steamboat Willie' is now in the public domain. What does that mean for Mickey Mouse?

[AngelOfThyNight]

'Steamboat Willie' is now in the public domain. What does that mean for Mickey Mouse?

A 1928 movie featuring the first appearance of Mickey Mouse enters public domain on Jan. 1. But creative and commercial access to the character is complicated by both copyright and trademark law.
     

A 1928 movie featuring the first appearance of Mickey Mouse enters public domain on Jan. 1. But creative and commercial access to the character is complicated by both copyright and trademark law.

(Image credit: Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)

Source: 'Steamboat Willie' is now in the public domain. What does that mean for Mickey Mouse?