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The upcoming horror film Screamboat is an unconventional spin on Steamboat Willie, the 1928 animated short created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks that introduced Mickey Mouse to the world. Directed, co-written, and produced by Steven LaMorte, the film reimagines the cheerful steamboat captain from the original as a menacing antagonist.
The project was announced on January 2, 2024, just one day after the original short entered the public domain.
Screamboat follows the growing trend of mascot horror, where beloved characters from children’s media are transformed into horror figures. By leveraging Steamboat Willie’s public domain status, the filmmakers reinterpret the iconic character in a way that combines nostalgic imagery with a chilling narrative.
Screamboat is set to release in theaters worldwide in April 2025, with home media distribution by DeskPop Entertainment.
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What is Screamboat's release date and time? Details explored
Screamboat is scheduled for a theatrical release in April 2025. Initially, the film was set to release on January 24, 2025, but the date was postponed to allow for additional production time and to align with its distribution strategy.
Iconic Events Releasing is handling its theatrical release, while DeskPop Entertainment will oversee its home media availability.
The project has generated significant buzz since its announcement, fueled by its unique premise and the public domain status of Steamboat Willie. The announcement came at a time when reinterpretations of classic characters, such as the horror-themed adaptations of Winnie the Pooh, have gained popularity.
What is Screamboat about?
It is set on a late-night ferry in New York City, where a group of passengers finds themselves under siege by a murderous and mischievous rodent. The antagonist, Screamboat Willie, wreaks havoc aboard the ferry, leaving the characters to fight for survival in an isolated and increasingly dangerous environment.
In an interview with IndieWire, director Steven LaMorte has described it as a character who is “mean, tiny, and always up to no good.” He also said:
"Our movie, while it is bloody and gory and raunchy, it really is a love letter to this character."
The film pays homage to elements of the original, particularly its steamboat setting, while introducing a darker, bloodier narrative. The confined space of the ferryboat adds to the tension, amplifying the sense of dread as the characters have limited options for escape.
The film features David Howard Thornton as Screamboat Willie, with the character’s design created by Quantum Creation FX.
Thornton, best known for his portrayal of Art the Clown in the Terrifier franchise, brings a sinister presence to the role, with the costume and puppet work transforming the cheerful animated character into a horrifying figure.
Cast and more details explored
The cast includes a mix of experienced actors and fresh talents. David Howard Thornton takes on the central role as Screamboat Willie. He is joined by Tyler Posey (Teen Wolf), Kailey Hyman (Terrifier 3), Jarlath Conroy (Day of the Dead), and Charles Edwin Powell (The Exorcist III), among others.
Notably, comedians Brian Quinn and Joe DeRosa will also make cameo appearances.
The film’s production began in spring 2024, with key updates about the cast and storyline released throughout the year. The title was officially announced in April 2024.
The character design for Willie was a major focus during production, aiming to retain visual elements of the original animation while emphasizing its horror reinterpretation.
It will premiere in theaters worldwide in April 2025, with exact dates for specific regions expected to be announced closer to its release. Following its theatrical run, the film will be available on digital and physical platforms through DeskPop Entertainment, although no release date for home media has been confirmed yet.
The movie is directed by Steven LaMorte while the screenplay is by Matthew Garcia-Dunn, Steven LaMorte.
