Protecting the Monsterverse, One Trademark at a Time

Costumed characters are one of the hallmarks of any theme park experience. At the Disney parks, you can meet Mickey, Minnie, and a small army of princesses. And Universal has Minions, Simpsons, and its classic movie monsters: Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, The Bride of Frankenstein, The Mummy, and the Wolf Man.

Universal’s monsters are so iconic that their costumes have been protected with federal trademark registrations:

By registering these trademarks, Universal ensures that the likeness of its monsters remains exclusive, preventing unauthorized use and imitation in costumes, merchandise, or other themed attractions. This legal strategy highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry, where costumes are more than just outfits—they are powerful brand assets.