Starting January 1, 2025, two iconic comic characters, Popeye and Tintin, will become part of the public domain in the United States. This means that anyone will be able to use and adapt these characters without needing permission or paying royalties to their copyright owners. This transformation comes as part of a broader trend where numerous works, particularly those that have been protected for 95 years, become freely available for public use.
A Dive into Comics
Popeye, a character notable for his bulging forearms and distinctive speech, first appeared in the comic strip “Thimble Theater” by E.C. Segar in 1929. Initially created for a one-time appearance, Popeye quickly gained popularity, leading to a rename of the strip to his namesake. His love for spinach, a key trait that grants him super strength, was added later, complicating his character’s public domain status, as only the original version will be usable without legal issues. Additionally, the animated works featuring his unique voice, which debuted in 1933, will still be under copyright.
Meanwhile, Tintin, created by Belgian artist Hergé, is another beloved character joining the public domain. Tintin made his debut in a 1929 supplement to the Belgian newspaper Le Vingtième Siècle. His simplistic design, with dot eyes and a distinct wave of hair, captivated audiences. However, similar to Popeye, only the earliest version will be freely usable, as numerous adaptations and character elements introduced later remain protected in many parts of the world.
Literary Classics from American Literature
In this wave of public domain entries, several American literary classics will be available for repurpose this year. Notably, William Faulkner’s “The Sound and the Fury,” a modernist narrative style that intricately weaves multiple perspectives, is a cornerstone of American literature. Meanwhile, Ernest Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms” and his earlier work “The Sun Also Rises” will also become publicly accessible this year, allowing for new adaptations and interpretations without restrictions.
Other noteworthy entries include John Steinbeck’s debut novel “A Cup of Gold,” as well as Virginia Woolf’s influential essay “A Room of One’s Own,” a significant piece in feminist literature. These works represent a rich legacy of American writing, providing a substantial foundation for creative projects for years to come.
Cinematic Milestones
On the film front, early works by cinematic legends will enter the public domain. Alfred Hitchcock’s 1929 film “Blackmail” will be accessible, notable for being his first sound film, existing in both silent and sound versions. Other significant films include John Ford’s adventure “The Black Watch” and Cecil B. DeMille’s melodrama “Dynamite.” These films mark the beginning of sound in cinema and showcase the evolution of film technology during this era.
Additionally, the Marx Brothers made their first starring appearance in the 1929 film “The Cocoanuts,” setting the stage for future classics like “Animal Crackers.” The Academy Award-winning film “The Broadway Melody,” although often regarded as one of the lesser Oscar winners, will also enter the public realm.
Melodies from the Roaring Twenties
This year also marks the end of the copyright for numerous timeless songs from 1929, including Cole Porter’s standards “What Is This Thing Called Love?” and “Tiptoe Through the Tulips.” Jazz enthusiasts will appreciate the entry of “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” written by Fats Waller and Harry Brooks. Iconic songs such as “Singin’ in the Rain,” which became synonymous with the 1952 Gene Kelly film, will also be available for public performance and adaptation.
While sound recordings are governed by different regulations, some from 1924 are receiving their public domain status, including a recording of “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” by Marian Anderson and the famous “Rhapsody in Blue” performed by George Gershwin.
With such a diverse array of cultural treasures entering the public domain, 2025 promises to be a significant year for artists, filmmakers, and creators looking to reimagine these classic works without the constraints of copyright.
