In a surprising turn of events, the earliest version of Mickey Mouse has burst onto the scene just two days after entering the public domain. With Disney's copyright on the 1928 short film “Steamboat Willie” expiring on New Year's Day, two horror films and a video game featuring the iconic character have been announced, much to the delight of fans.

The first film, titled "Mickey's Mouse Trap," directed by Jamie Bailey, released its trailer on YouTube shortly after the copyright expiration. The trailer showcases a group of young people enjoying an amusement arcade, only to be terrorized by a masked killer dressed as Mickey Mouse. The film promises to be a live-action comedy horror feature, combining the beloved character with a slasher genre twist. Bailey expressed his excitement about the project, stating that they wanted to have fun with the concept and create an entertaining and ridiculous experience for the audience.

The second horror film, yet to be titled, will be directed by Steven LaMorte, who previously helmed a horror parody of "The Grinch." LaMorte described his vision for the film as a late-night boat ride turning into a fight for survival in New York City, with Mickey Mouse taking on a monstrous reality. He expressed his anticipation for bringing this twisted take on the beloved character to the world, emphasizing the potential for unhinged terror beneath Mickey's cheerful exterior.

While both films draw inspiration from the early versions of Mickey Mouse featured in "Steamboat Willie," they are careful not to infringe on Disney's rights to the more modern iterations of the character. LaMorte assured fans that they are working closely with a legal team to avoid any conflicts with Disney and will refer to their menacing rodent as Steamboat Willie in the film.

In addition to the horror films, a video game called "Infestation: Origins" is also in the works. Developed by Nightmare Forge Games, the game will draw inspiration from the early Mickey Mouse and is scheduled for release in 2024.

The entry of “Steamboat Willie” into the public domain marks a significant moment in copyright history. Directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, the short film features a more rat-like and mischievous Mickey Mouse, showcasing his talent for creating musical instruments out of other animals. With the expiration of the copyright, the public is now free to use the initial versions of Mickey and Minnie Mouse without incurring any costs.

While the release dates for the horror films and the video game are yet to be announced, fans of Mickey Mouse can look forward to a thrilling and chilling experience as the earliest version of the beloved character takes on new and unexpected dimensions.