Joker Tries to Copyright a Fish?
Joker is one of the most iconic villains in comic book history. At times, the Joker has been known to do some pretty crazy stuff (like holding a heist or taking on the Justice League). At other times, he does some strange things that will make you scratch your head in confusion. Joker’s attempts to copyright a fish probably falls in the latter. Let’s explore that in a little more detail.
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The Fish Joker Tried to Copyright
The fish that Joker tried to copyright was not just some ordinary fish. It was a fish that he chemically altered to have his lipstick stained wide mouthed smile. The fish were called “Joker Fish” in which Joker tried to copyright the fish and collect royalties. Joker’s plans are alot more complicated than it seems.
Gotham Law and Laws under the United States Code
Gotham Law and laws under the United States Code may differ on their stance on what qualifies for copyright protection. Let’s look at the laws under the United States Code since finding out how copyright law works in Gotham City may be a little difficult. Title 17 of the United States Code lays out some of the categories that may be eligible for copyright protection. These categories include:
(1) literary works;
(2) musical works, including any accompanying words;
(3) dramatic works, including any accompanying music;
(4) pantomimes and choreographic works;
(5) pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works;
(6) motion pictures and other audiovisual works;
(7) sound recordings; and
(8) architectural works
The list has several categories, but it may be hard to fit a chemically altered fish into one of those categories.
Joker Fish Copyright Scene
In the scene, Joker states that every fish in Gotham bears his “face,” so he should be getting a profit from every fish product in Gotham. For example, he wanted a nickel for every fish sandwich. But the Copyright Office stated that Joker can’t copyright a fish since they’re a natural resource, even if they share Joker’s face. In response, Joker threatens the worker at Gotham’s Copyright Office, which is a pretty poor way to handle a rejection.
Here’s the scene!
What are your thoughts on the idea of trying to copyright the facial features of a fish? Leave a comment below to let us know what you think!
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Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice. It is only for educational or entertainment purposes only. Please do not use the article or contents of the article without permission. For legal advice and questions, please contact registered Patent Attorney Vincent LoTempio.
