Patents & Trademarks

This documentary uncovers who profits from intellectual property, and who bears the economic and social consequences. In 2012, giant technology companies like Apple and Google invested more money into patent infringement lawsuits than they spent on the development of new innovations. But it is not a virtual war being fought only over market shares and equity prices. Filmmaker Hannah Leonie Prinzler interviews British inventor James Dyson and American business gurus in Silicon Valley. She visits the world’s patent headquarters in Geneva and travels to India, the world’s largest manufacturer of generic medicines. She investigates India’s measures to protect genetic resources and meets Anil Gupta, the “Gandhi of Innovation.” Finally, she tours an Arizona warehouse where the first open-source car is being developed.

This episode looks at how governments and strategic investors work to nurture and protect brands. Patents, copyright, and intellectual property laws are necessary to protect brand's image-as well as the wealth created by product manufacturing and sales.

Directed by AFI Award Winner Stefano Da Fre, Stolen Dough is the remarkable true story of Anthony Mongiello, an Italian-American whose patent for Stuffed Crust Pizza was stolen by Pizza Hut.

In business, a good idea can be worth millions. But how do you generate and then shield ideas from competitors who might steal them? This program explores how businesses effectively develop and protect their ideas. Split into three sections and with input from entrepreneurs including Philip Taylor, Sir James Dyson, and leading patent lawyer Carin Burchill, the video looks at sources of new ideas, development, spotting trends, finding a niche market, copyright, patents, and trademarks.