Copyrighting help?

Question

So, we're starting our own business soon, was wondering about public domain/copyrighted info...

We're specializing in horror merchandise

we're wondering about if we can put (for example), an image of michael myers on a t-shirt and be allowed to...or do you have to have permission from the copyrighter...

also does anyone know a website where we can find info on this?

Answer 1

Yes, you do need permission from the copyright holder.  To reproduce something like Michael Myers, permission would typically be a license to use, plus payment of royalties; and that only if they grant you a license.

For Michael Myers merchandise, for example, you would need to contact Trancas Films ( http://www.trancasfilms.com/ ) directly for additional information.  Odds are, since they already have merchandise partners, that you wouldn't be permitted a license, but you won't know until you ask.  If nothing else, you can find out if perhaps you could obtain merchandise wholesale for resale.

More information on Copyright is available at the U.S. Copyright Office ( http://www.copyright.gov/ ).