Disney's iconic character Mickey Mouse to star in a terrifying movie as copyright expiration allows for new creative ventures

A slasher film trailer featuring a killer dressed as Mickey Mouse was released on 1 January, which also happened to be the day that Disney's copyright on the earliest versions of the character expired in the US. The director of the movie stated that they intended to have fun with it. In addition to the film, a horror game inspired by Mickey Mouse was also released on the same day, featuring the rodent covered in blood stains. The entry of the 1928 short film Steamboat Willie into the public domain allows artists to freely use and reinterpret the early versions of Mickey and Minnie without seeking permission or paying any fees. The new rules have prompted creatives to take advantage of this opportunity, resulting in the release of the Mickey horror film and game. The film, titled Mickey's Mouse Trap, revolves around a surprise birthday party that turns sinister when a knife-wielding murderer dressed as Mickey Mouse appears. The horror game, Infestation 88, centers around exterminators battling twisted versions of classic characters and urban legends. Experts have hailed the expiration of Disney's copyright as a significant event. However, it's important to note that Disney still maintains trademark rights over Mickey as a brand and corporate mascot, with restrictions on the public use of these images.