Doing Business with Wizards, Spider-Men, and Jedi Knights: Managing Intellectual Property and Fandom in the Experience Economy

Abstract

The experience economy has taken popular culture and has injected it into every aspect of our lives. We translate movies, TV shows, video games, and other forms of entertainment into our daily activities in the form of fan fiction, events, merchandise, and themed establishments. These activities involve vast amounts of creative content protected by copyright, trademarks, and designs. Rightsholders need to manage these intellectual properties strategically to increase profits while tolerating consumer experiences that do not cause damage to the business. This preserves long-term fan loyalty and immersive patronage.