The cynic in me suspects that even this might be challenged. Is there anything specifically preventing trademark protections from applying to unauthorized verbatim reproduction, and only derived works?
Of course, just because using trademark in this way is nonsensical doesn't mean that Disney won't try and/or succeed. But it would be pretty outrageous. The only reason to entertain this notion at all is because Disney's past actions regarding copyright have been outrageously evil to begin with.
I wouldn't put it that way. Trademark [0]:
* Identifies the source of your goods or services. * Provides legal protection for your brand. * Helps you guard against counterfeiting and fraud.
> consumer confusion
Yes, preventing consumer confusion is an important reason for trademark laws to exist, as a protection against counterfeiting and fraud.