What are derivative works in relation to original materials?

Derivative works are defined as creations that are based on original materials. This means they incorporate or transform those original materials in some way, such as through adaptation, modification, or interpretation. Importantly, because derivative works use pre-existing intellectual property, they often require permission from the original creator or copyright holder. This legal protection aims to respect the rights of the original creator while allowing for the development of new content that builds upon that foundation.

New adaptations, while they may sometimes be created without explicit restrictions, still fall into the category of derivative works if they alter or enhance the original material. Independent studies, in contrast, do not relate to or draw from the original works and thus are not considered derivative. Collaborative works could potentially result in derivative materials, but the key aspect is the transformation of existing creative content, which is not inherently part of a collaborative creation unless it specifically involves adapting original works.