On January 1, 2024, the copyright for the original "Steamboat Willie" cartoon featuring Mickey Mouse expired, placing the character in the public domain. Just hours after the copyright expired, a trailer for a horror movie titled "Mickey's Mouse Trap" was released. This trailer depicts Mickey Mouse as a slasher villain, chasing and killing people. The film, created by independent filmmaker Steven LaMorte, generated significant attention and controversy. It quickly became the subject of memes and discussions on social media platforms.
Experts and analysts have discussed the legal implications of this situation for Disney, as other characters like Minnie Mouse and Goofy are still under copyright protection. While Disney may not be able to prevent the creation of these horror movies, they do have other legal options to enforce their trademarks and intellectual property rights. Some have also pointed out the potential impact on the public perception and image of the beloved character.
In addition to the horror movie, a video game titled "Infestation 88" was also announced, featuring a comic book-style art style. However, the game quickly faced controversy and accusations of using neo-Nazi imagery, leading to a change in its title. This controversy has raised questions about the responsibility of creators and the potential for misuse of public domain content.
The release of these horror movies and video game has sparked a broader discussion about the implications of copyright expiration and public domain on popular culture. Some argue that it allows for creativity and reinterpretation of well-known characters, while others express concerns about how it may affect the legacy and integrity of these characters.
Overall, the release of the horror movie and video game featuring Mickey Mouse has generated significant attention and controversy, highlighting the complex legal and cultural implications of characters entering the public domain. It remains to be seen how Disney and other stakeholders will respond to these developments.
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