I Don't Even Recognize You Anymore: The Limits of the Protection of Alteration and Modernisation of Fictitious Characters

Traditional trade marks have become a rarity, widely replaced by more appealing means of market communication. Fueled by the CJEU's liberal jurisdiction, widening the subject matter eligible for trade mark protection, a whole new world of opportunity has opened up to advertisers. The author adresses the question in-depth, whether a fictional character per se is eligible for trade mark protection. The topic is approached via Community and US-Supreme court jurisdiction. Furthermore, alternative means of protection via adjacent regimes are analysed. The author concludes with a thorough comparison and policy recommendations.