A scene from ‘Mickey’s Mouse Trap’.Photo:Into Frame Productions
Into Frame Productions
The ever-lovable Mickey Mouse is about to get a whole lot scarier.
The same day that the earliest iteration of Disney’s most famous cartoon character entered the public domain, two films taking a horror twist on the character’s sensibilities were revealed.
Leading things off is an officialteaserforMickey’s Mouse Trap, a horror flick based on Mickey Mouse from 1928’sSteamboat Willie, which was released via YouTube on Monday.
A scene from ‘Mickey’s Mouse Trap’.Into Frame Productions
The footage from the upcoming film, which is expected to release in March 2024, sees a group of teens in an arcade stumble across a blood-soaked jungle gym before cutting to a reel-to-reel projector eerily running clips fromSteamboat Willie, the Walt Disney short that first introduced Mickey Mouse to world. The following scenes showcase an individual dressed as Mickey Mouse going on an apparent murderous rampage through the arcade.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Upon entering the public domain on Monday, Disney lost the copyright law protection that has allowed the studio total control overSteamboat Willieand that film’s version of Mickey Mouse’s likeness since 1928. Disney still retains copyright protection over the later, more recognizable iterations of Mickey Mouse.
“Steamboat Williehas brought joy to generations, but beneath that cheerful exterior lies a potential for pure, unhinged terror,” LaMorte added, according to the publication. “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.”
Production on LaMorte’s project is set to begin in Spring 2024.
Disney still could sue over any perceived endorsement or affiliation with its brand.
source: people.com
