Creepy Classics "Phantom" cancelled

[MIB41]

I think the cancellation has more to do with not ruffling the feathers of those within the industry who may feel differently. It's better to ride the wave than fight against the tide. Especially in this industry. I hate we don't get to have this one, but I understand the wisdom in that decision.

[SeattleEd]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0qoWLi5clx...0/phantom3.jpghttp://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOCDqQCUID...0/Phantom2.jpg

I like the head size in the second one since to me it appears to have more flow. The first one is a tad too big but then it fits in the classic Mego aesthetic.

[Earth 2 Chris]

Tim that head is awesome, but for some reason it looks like a zombie Tom Petty to me. Not that that is a bad thing. Petty is a bit creepy looking alive.

Chris

[rche]

I was thinking Iggy Pop with food poisoning myself. ^^

Looks great. I liked the necro one as well.

[timb]

Earth 2 Chris, you are the second person today to tell me he looks like a dug-up Tom Petty, LOL.

[AcroRay]

I like Tim's second go.

I also like that it looks like Tom Petty! (He'd probably get a giggle out of it as well...)

[tylerh]

So by that rule, when the phantom has his mask ON, since you cant see Chaney's face - Then THAT is 100% public domain - But its only questionable when the mask is off?

[drmego]

Chaney created the make-up which includes the mask.

[Werewolf]

As I understand it, and someone please correct if I am wrong, the Phantom of the Opera novel is in public domain and the 1925 movie is in public domain. But just the movie itself. Not the merchandising rights of the Universal Phantom character. Universal and the Chaney estate still own the rights to the likeness of Universal Phantom. Which includes the make-up, costume, mask and Chaney likeness.

[samurainoir]

.......

I really don't know what the facts of the matter are from Universal's perspective, BUT according to copyright law in the United States, IF the likeness rights of the Phantom resided with Lon Chaney Sr. and his estate, there is a 70 year copyright following his death in 1930. Which means that it would have entered public domain about a decade ago. So his make-up likeness was protected in all the previous products released by AHI/Remco etc back in the 60's, 70's and 80's.

It would still be copyright protected in other parts of the world however, that have different lengths of terms. There is certainly a great deal of precedence of the likeness being used domestically on DVD packaging for example.

[Chris]

Are you going to sell the outfit and body? I'd buy one and make my own Phantom. You have the basis of a great figure there. I'd hate to see it go to waste, especially, if it was in mid-production. Plus, I have a great idea for a Mad Monsters box.

[PNGwynne]

^I'd love to see your box idea!!!

[PNGwynne]

Chaney created the make-up which includes the mask.

Really? Not being argumentative, but I'd like to see this documented--the mask could have just as easily been a product of the prop dept./costumer.

Of course, the film had a checkerd production history, with Chaney "stepping in" to "help" direct. He was a hands-on artist, so his designing the mask is plausible.

[timb]

[PNGwynne]

Wow, that is cool--sort of ghoul-ish.