January 1 marks Public Domain Day, a significant moment when creative works from 1929 (and 1924 for sound recordings) become freely accessible for all creators. This exciting development allows artists, writers, and filmmakers to use these works without limitations — an opportunity to transform, adapt, and innovate.
As we welcome these newly released artistic treasures into the public domain, we can either pursue edgy reinterpretations or elevate them into new and meaningful creations.
What is Public Domain Day?
2025 will usher in the sixth year of Public Domain Day, a celebration recognized by advocates and experts in copyright law. Significant releases this year include classics from literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner, iconic films featuring Alfred Hitchcock, and continued easing of copyright protection for renowned authors Agatha Christie and Virginia Woolf.
This year’s highlight is the public domain status of beloved cartoon icons, Popeye and Tintin, allowing creators to weave their narratives loosely based on these characters.
Popeye and the Power of Spinach
Popeye, introduced in E. C. Segar’s Thimble Theatre, is now available for creative reinterpretation. While some reports suggest that new works cannot depict him eating spinach as a source of strength, this appears to be a misunderstanding. A crucial 1931 comic strip reveals Popeye’s relationship with spinach, and since that strip is in the public domain, creators can combine those details and create new stories featuring the iconic sailor.
Tintin’s Entrance into Public Domain
Tintin enters the U.S. public domain in 2025, although remains copyrighted in the EU. Originally a creation of anti-communist propaganda, the Tintin strips are now ripe for reimagining. Artists are free to explore new interpretations or contextual narratives around the character.
The Evolution of Mickey Mouse
After Mickey Mouse’s official entry into the public domain last year, future derivative works may now include his speaking debut from The Karnival Kid, where he utters his first words. This transition may inspire creators to explore new stories or visuals while keeping in mind existing trademarks linked to Disney’s iconic character.
Exploring New Literary Heights
T.S. Eliot’s Ash Wednesday and Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own are newly in the public domain, offering exciting avenues for adaptation and reinterpretation. These texts can be transformed into films, songs, or artistic presentations that reflect their ongoing relevance.
Classic Films Available for Interpretation
Alfred Hitchcock’s Blackmail and several notable films from the silent and early sound era have now entered the public domain, allowing filmmakers to use, adapt, or showcase them without copyright constraints, potentially rediscovering their artistic gems for new audiences.
Musical Masterpieces Free for Use
George Gershwin’s An American in Paris and Maurice Ravel’s Boléro are newly available. These compositions can inspire fresh arrangements, performances, or multimedia projects as the world of music embraces its new public domain status.
Additional Works Entering the Public Domain
A plethora of notable works will now be free to adapt, including:
- Literature:
- Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie
- A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway
- Red Harvest by Dashiell Hammett
- Laughing Boy by Oliver La Farge
- Film:
- Hallelujah by King Vidor
- Pandora’s Box by G.W. Pabst
- The Wild Party by Dorothy Arzner
- Music:
- Ain’t Misbehavin’ by Fats Waller
- What Is This Thing Called Love? by Cole Porter
