Public Domain Day is a time to celebrate the expiration of copyright protections for various works, allowing them to be freely accessed, republished, and revitalized. This year, the treasures entering the public domain include Betty Boop’s debut appearance, a William Faulkner novel, an iconic Piet Mondrian painting, and “The Little Engine That Could.”
In the United States, copyright protection terms have been revised over the years. Works published between 1930 and 1978 have a 95-year protection term, starting from the year of publication. After this period, the works enter the public domain. This year marks the expiration of the protection term for works from 1930, making them copyright-free.
Betty Boop’s debut appearance in Fleischer Studios’s “Dizzy Dishes” (1930) cartoon segment is now in the public domain. However, subsequent appearances of the character are still copyrighted. Piet Mondrian’s “Composition with Red, Blue, and Yellow” (1930) has also entered the public domain, offering a glimpse into the pivotal styles of art history between the World Wars.
Jose Clemente Orozco’s “Prometheus” (1930), a mural commissioned by Pomona College, symbolizing the Mexican Muralism movement’s spread to the US, is another notable addition to the public domain this year. Arnold “Watty Piper” Munk’s version of “The Little Engine That Could” (1930) and William Faulkner’s “As I Lay Dying” (1930) are also now free to be shared and enjoyed by all.
As we celebrate Public Domain Day, let’s embrace these works from 1930 and explore the creativity and cultural significance they offer. Whether it’s the whimsical charm of Betty Boop or the thought-provoking narrative of Faulkner’s novel, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the wealth of public domain treasures now available. Agatha Christie fans have another reason to celebrate this year with the return of The Murder at the Vicarage in 1930. The classic mystery novel by the Queen of Crime is a beloved favorite amongst readers and continues to captivate audiences with its intricate plot and engaging characters.
In addition to Christie’s masterpiece, 1930 also marks the entry of several films into the public domain. One notable film is L’Age d’or (The Golden Age), co-written by Salvador DalĂ and Luis Buñuel. This absurdist take-down of religion and family was banned by Paris police upon its release but has since been restored by the Center Pompidou for modern audiences to enjoy.
Other films shedding copyright protections this year include Alfred Hitchcock’s Murder!, Greta Garbo’s first talking film Anna Christie, Lewis Milestone’s adaptation of All Quiet on the Western Front, and John Murray Anderson’s technicolor musical King of Jazz. These films were released during a significant period in film history, just after the introduction of sound technology and before the implementation of Hollywood’s morality codes.
Despite the challenges we face today, the works entering the public domain in 1930 serve as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of artists during times of turmoil. These timeless classics offer a sense of comfort and inspiration as we navigate through our own struggles.
As the iconic Little Engine famously said, “I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.” These words of determination and perseverance resonate with us now more than ever as we continue to push forward in the face of adversity.
