Why is Winnie the Pooh Blood and Honey legal?

On January 1st, 2022, A.A. Milne's seminal 1926 book, "Winnie-the-Pooh," entered the public domain. This historic event marked the expiration of copyright protection for the original story, freeing it from the constraints of Disney's exclusive rights.

With the story now open to interpretation and adaptation by any creator, the door was opened for a bold and unconventional take on the classic tale. "Blood and Honey" emerged as a daring exploration, pushing the boundaries of what was previously considered suitable for the Pooh franchise.

The decision to create an R-rated version of "Winnie-the-Pooh" was a bold move, given the franchise's long-standing association with innocence, family-friendliness, and heartwarming stories. Nevertheless, the creators saw an opportunity to challenge expectations and tell a darker, more mature narrative.

In crafting "Blood and Honey," the filmmakers drew inspiration from Milne's original text while infusing it with their own unique vision. They aimed to create a faithful adaptation that would still resonate with contemporary audiences, albeit in a significantly different tone and style.

The origins of the R-rated adaptation of "Blood and Honey" can be traced back to a unique confluence of circumstances. Despite Disney's enduring ownership of the animated versions of the beloved Pooh Bear and his friends, a significant shift occurred in the copyright landscape.