When Anna Nicole tried to get the main domain name for herself - AnnaNicoleSmith.com, I believe - (I have the correct name in my notes and don’t feel like looking for it right now), the judge ruled against her and said the name is too common to trademark it for exclusivity.
So, I think HKS is out of luck in trying for the exact trademark, especially at this late date. I know when the producers of this movie announced it last March, they said they didn’t have to acquire any rights to any of her story because all the info they’re using is in the public domain.
They also said they started work on a movie of her life two years ago - long before she died. And the “AnnaNicoleMovie.com” would probably belong to them if they thought ahead - if not, someone else has it and will sell it to them.
I doubt they want to spend any money for it. I haven’t even seen an official title for it, other than “Anna Nicole”. This is the one starring Willa Ford as ANS.
As of Nov 21 - the last imdb update - production is finished and it is slated for 2008 release. Don’t know if post is still going on or if it’s completely wrapped up. Seems like they could’ve released it on her 40th BD if it’s done, but maybe they’re waiting for Feb 8, 2008.
btt
On February 2, 2004, pursuant to Complainant’s request to have the dispute decided by a single-member Panel, the Forum appointed G. Gervaise Davis III, Esq., as the sole Panelist.
The Panel notes that Complainant, however, holds no actual registered trademarks and thus relies solely on common law rights to her name, which requires that she establish a broad level of recognition of her exclusive rights to the use of the name in order to prevail ...
Complainant having failed to establish the three elements required under the ICANN Policy, the Panel concludes that relief shall be DENIED."
G. Gervaise Davis III, Esq., Sole Panelist Dated: February 21, 2004
I've speculated whether it was at this time, that Anna started getting 'a clue' about the bumbling ineptitude of howie baby