Horror Films In a swift turn of events, the original Mickey Mouse, set free from Disney’s copyright on Monday, is causing a stir barely two days into the public domain. The iconic character from “Steamboat Willie” has become the central figure in two horror films, with a trailer for “Mickey’s Mouse Trap” dropping on YouTube just hours after the 1928 short’s public domain status was established. Another untitled film was announced on Tuesday.
“Menacing Origins: Steamboat Willie and the Birth of Mickey”: Horror Films
Creation and Menace in Early Disney
“Steamboat Willie” introduced early versions of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. While it was their third collaboration featuring the duo, it was the first to be released. The short depicted a more menacing Mickey, bearing a resemblance to a rat, navigating a boat and creating musical instruments from other animals.
“From Pooh to Mouse: Unconventional Paths in Horror”
A Trend in Low-Budget and Campy Slashers
The trend of turning beloved characters into low-budget and campy slasher films is not entirely new. Winnie the Pooh, without his trademark red shirt, entered the public domain in 2022, and within a year, was featured in the microbudget “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey,” tallying up a surprising body count.
“Mickey’s Mouse Trap: The Absurdity of Horror”
YouTube Trailer and Unconventional Celebration
The trailer for “Mickey’s Mouse Trap,” directed by Jamie Bailey, showcases a human figure in a comically small Mickey mask terrorizing a group of young people at an arcade. The absurdity of Steamboat Willie’s Mickey Mouse engaging in murder is embraced with enthusiasm. Director Jamie Bailey stated, “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.” The release date is yet to be announced.
“A Monstrous Reality: Mickey’s New York Nightmare”: Horror Films
Director Steven LaMorte’s Untitled Film
The second film, directed by Steven LaMorte, promises a late-night boat ride turning into a desperate fight for survival in New York City as a mischievous mouse transforms into a monstrous reality. LaMorte emphasizes the potential for pure, unhinged terror beneath Steamboat Willie’s cheerful exterior. The movie is yet to begin production.
“Navigating Copyright: Legal Vigilance in Horror Production”: Horror Films
Due Diligence to Avoid Disney’s Ire
With the 95-year copyright expiration, only the initial versions of Mickey and Minnie are open for public use. Disney emphasizes continued protection of rights in modern versions of Mickey Mouse. LaMorte, working on his film, ensures legal precautions are taken to avoid infringing on Disney’s rights. The film will refer to their raging rodent as Steamboat Willie instead of Mickey Mouse, demonstrating due diligence to prevent any confusion or legal issues.
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