The Dark Side of Mickey Mouse: A Horror Film Take on the Classic Character as Copyright Expires

Topline

Prepare to see Mickey Mouse like never before, as two chilling horror projects featuring the original Steamboat Willie version of the beloved Disney character have been unveiled following the expiration of the character’s copyright.

Get ready for “Infestation 88,” a frightening first-person action horror game that pits players against a blood-covered Mickey Mouse. The game is developed by studio Nightmare Forge and promises a co-operative horror experience with dark, twisted versions of classic characters and urban legends.

But that’s not all – a teaser trailer has been released for a British independent slasher film titled “Mickey’s Mouse Trap,” which offers a chilling twist on the character’s iconic 1928 debut in “Steamboat Willie.” Filled with suspense and terror, the film features a masked killer in a Mickey Mouse costume, similar to “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey.”

Both projects are among the first to feature the original version of Mickey Mouse, now that the character has entered the public domain as of the new year.

News Peg

Despite the character entering the public domain, both projects have made it clear that they are in no way endorsed by Disney. The filmmakers are taking precautions as well, stating that they are only using the “Steam Boat Willie Mickey Mouse,” a likely move to preempt any legal action from Disney.

Crucial Quote

Disney has assured that while the earliest version of Mickey Mouse has now entered the public domain, the more modern adaptations and versions of Mickey will remain unaffected. The iconic character will continue to be a global ambassador for Disney across its storytelling, theme park attractions, and merchandise.

Key Background

Directed by Walt Disney and animator Ub Iwerks, “Steamboat Willie” introduced audiences to Mickey Mouse and Minnie in 1928, complete with synchronized sound. Originally scheduled to enter the public domain in 1984, the copyright for the character was extended until 2004 and later 2024. Despite the expiration of the character’s copyright, Disney still holds the trademark for Mickey and Minnie Mouse. As a result, any adaptations of the original version of Mickey will still face limitations in terms of promotion. Both horror projects have chosen to stick to the black-and-white version of Mickey, staying true to the character’s roots.

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