Los Angeles, Calif. – In an unexpected twist, the iconic character of Mickey Mouse is set to star in a horror-comedy film now that the 1928 Disney short film “Steamboat Willie” has become part of the public domain. This means that independent filmmakers now have the ability to create their own stories featuring the beloved character.
“Steamboat Willie,” directed by Walt Disney, is a groundbreaking 8-minute short that introduced the world to Mickey Mouse. It was the first cartoon to feature synchronized sound, marking a significant milestone in film history.
The announcement of Mickey Mouse’s new role in a horror comedy film comes on the heels of the expiration of the copyright for “Steamboat Willie” on Jan. 1, 2024. Shortly after this significant development, a trailer was released for the indie horror film “Mickey’s Mouse Trap,” featuring a sinister version of Mickey Mouse as a psycho killer.
The plot of the movie revolves around a young woman celebrating her 21st birthday while working a late shift at an amusement arcade, only to be terrorized by a masked killer dressed as Mickey Mouse. Notably, the film includes a cast of emerging talent such as Sophie McIntosh, Callum Sywyk, Allegra Nocita, and others.
While this creative reimagining of Mickey Mouse may come as a surprise to many, Disney has remained committed to protecting its more modern iterations of the character. The emergence of horror movies featuring the iconic character comes as independent filmmakers explore the creative possibilities presented by the entry of “Steamboat Willie” into the public domain.
The exploitation of Mickey Mouse’s newfound availability has also extended to other filmmakers. Another untitled horror movie based on “Steamboat Willie,” directed by Steven LaMorte and set on a ferry with a sadistic mouse tormenting passengers, is currently in production. Director Jamie Bailey, speaking about “Mickey’s Mouse Trap,” expressed excitement about the opportunity to explore a twisted take on the beloved character.
As Mickey Mouse’s legacy continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these new interpretations will be received by audiences. The expiration of the copyright for “Steamboat Willie” has opened up a new chapter in the character’s history, presenting unique storytelling opportunities for independent filmmakers.