The character of Superman is trademarked and so long as it is "vigorously defended" and does not attain generic status through dilution, can be maintained virtually forever.
The copyrights to the expressions of the various Superman entities (comics, Cartoons, movies, radio programs) are, in most cases, owned by the original artists/authors (a notable exception is the Max Fleisher Studio cartoons, which were not renewed and have lapsed into public domain status). Those copyrights will eventually reach the public domain but not for some time. Under current US Copyright Law the artwork for the original appearance of Superman (Action Comics #1 June 30, 1938) is not scheduled to be in the public domain until 2033 (95 years post publication).
The time before something goes into public domain is generally twenty years. However, time is not the only factor involved. If the publisher, artists, creator, movie company, or anyone else renews the copyrights or trademarks, then it will be that much longer. Pretty much, as long as Superman continues to be a large source of income, there will be someone renewing the rights keeping it from going into public domain.
Metallo has tried in Superman/Batman: Public Enemies
Superman was brave because he was fearless. Superman doesn't take no for an answer, he just punches that no in the face. Ain't nobody mess with superman, not even batman. This fear of Superman by the general public fuels his bravery and enables him to rule metro city.
he would never try that.
The 19th century novel "Dracula" is in the public domain, and short phrases such as names are not protected by copyright.
utimate superman (strongest) superman prime one million superman prime superboy prime sowrd of superman cosmic armor superman all star superman sun dipped superman aplopit cyborg superman evil cyborg superman cyborg superman steel superman modern age blue superman eradicator superman red/blue ultraman bizzoro ad superman ga superman sa superman green latern superman pre crisis superman (weakest)
"Dark as a dungeon" would be considered a "common phrase" and as such is not eligible for copyright protection
No; they are administered by Time Warner.
No; it is not likely to enter the public domain until 2080.
No; it will not enter the public domain until 2051.
The latest it would enter the public domain would be 2031, but the link below may be of interest.
Copyright protection is required to be "for a limited time," after which the works enter the public domain, where they can be used by anyone for anything.
No; it is controlled by the Weill Foundation.
Pubic domain occurs naturally when a copyright expires. In theory, a copyright owner can intentionally disclaim any power to enforce a copyright, making it as if it were "public domain".
Edna Ferber's 1924 novel So Big will enter the public domain in 2020.George Orwell's 1948 novel 1984 will enter the public domain in 2021.L. Ron Hubbard's 1980 novel Battlefield Earth will enter the public domain in 2057.Works of J.D. Salinger will enter the public domain in 2081.The Harry Potter novels will be protected for the life of J.K. Rowling plus 70 years.
Regarding the 1938 novel by T.H. White: If copyright was renewed, it will enter the public domain in 2033. If copyright was not renewed, it is currently in the public domain. Regarding the 1963 Disney film: No.
When a copyright expires, the work enters the public domain. In the public domain, the work is no longer protected by copyright law, and anyone is free to use, reproduce, or modify it without permission or payment.
No. Due to frequent changes in the copyright law, no sound recordings will enter the public domain until February 15, 2067.