Mickey Mouse is Getting a Horror Movie Makeover

Steamboat Willie Mickey Mouse horror movie
Walt Disney/Everett Collection (edited with Adobe Express)

Disney characters are known for creating joy in our hearts. However, some people are hoping to use those beloved characters to invoke fear instead. Now that the 1928 Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse is in the public domain, a new horror film based on the character is already in the works. This isn’t the first time an adorable Disney character has been used in a scary movie. Recently, Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey came out, featuring Winnie the Pooh as a monster instead of the sweet little bear we know and love.

Steven LaMorte has confirmed he will direct an untitled horror-comedy film based on Steamboat Willie, with the character tormenting ferry passengers. He shared about the new movie, “Steamboat Willie has brought joy to generations, but beneath that cheerful exterior lies a potential for pure, unhinged terror. 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.”

Mr and Mrs Walt Disney with Mickey Mouse, London, 21 June 1935. Walt Disney (1901-1966), American animator and showman, with his wife Lillian and one of his creations, Mickey Mouse

Daily Herald Archive/SSPL/Getty Images

The director, who has also directed a horror parody of The Grinch called The Mean One, added, “It all comes from our love of these characters. 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.”

While the copyright for the Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse has expired, LaMorte will still have to be careful with Disney trademarks. LaMorte added that they are working with a legal team to make sure not to step on Disney’s toes. He continued, “We are doing our due diligence to make sure there’s no question or confusion of what we’re up to. 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.”

This isn’t the only horror movie involving Mickey Mouse in the works. Reportedly, another movie called Mickey’s Mouse Trap directed by Jamie Bailey is coming too. What do you think about horror movies based on Disney characters? Tell us your opinion in the comments!

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August 2021

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