Isn't the LotR universe protected by trademarks? I'd imagine the books and movies are protected by legally distinct copyrights.
Trademarks clearly should have much longer protection periods than copyright. In fact, a business should be able to operate infinitely under the same legally protected name as long as they remain an active business in good standing and the haven't lost their brand name to a word in common usage.
Trademarks clearly should have much longer protection periods than copyright. In fact, a business should be able to operate infinitely under the same legally protected name as long as they remain an active business in good standing and the haven't lost their brand name to a word in common usage.