The original (1928) version of Mickey Mouse has entered the public domain, and with that comes the first new projects from indie filmmakers who are eager to capitalize on one of Disney’s most popular characters via the horror genre.
“Steamboat Willie has brought joy to generations, but beneath that cheerful exterior lies a potential for pure, unhinged terror,” reads a press release from Steven LaMorte, an indie filmmaker who is developing a horror-comedy about a “sadistic mouse” who, as a twist on Mickey’s original cartoon debut, torments passengers on a ferry. “It’s a project I’ve been dreaming of, and I can’t wait to unleash this twisted take on this beloved character to the world.”
“We are doing our due diligence to make sure there’s no question or confusion of what we’re up to,” LaMorte explained, noting that the character in his film will not be called Mickey Mouse, but Steamboat Willie. “This is our version of a public domain character. It’s a scary thrill ride with heart and humor, based on this character that everybody knows.”
“It all comes from our love of these characters,” LaMorte added in an interview that was picked up by Variety. “Filmmakers — we’re all kids in the sandbox. We love taking them and playing with them in different ways. It’s not a desire to ruin these characters or make a quick buck, but to love them and honor them and show them in a new light.”
LaMorte’s film isn’t expected to go into production until spring, but Mickey’s Mouse Trap, another horror-comedy from director Jamie Bailey, already has a trailer, which can be watched below:
“It’s Alex’s 21st Birthday, but she’s stuck at the amusement arcade on a late shift so her friends decide to surprise her, but a masked killer dressed as Mickey Mouse decides to play a game of his own with them which she must survive,” reads a description of the film.
“We just wanted to have fun with it all. I mean, it’s Steamboat Willie’s Mickey Mouse murdering people. It’s ridiculous. We ran with it and had fun doing it, and I think it shows,” Bailey said.
LaMorte’s previous films include The Mean One, a horror version of the Grinch, while Bailey’s credits include Deinfluencer and What Lurks Beneath.