From Fortune:

Mickey Mouse from “Steamboat Willie” lost his copyright, leading to two horror films. Released in 1928, Mickey and Minnie Mouse made their debut under Walt Disney. The first horror project is called “Mickey’s Mouse Trap” and directed by Jamie Bailey. Another film focuses on Mickey as a monstrous villain in New York City. Both low-budget projects were released within days of the copyright expiration. While Disney has stated they will continue to protect rights in contemporary versions of the characters, the public is allow to use the initial versions. LaMorte told Variety that the producers of his film are working with a legal team so as not to run afoul of Disneys legal rights.



Read more: Early Mickey Mouse, just days in the public domain, has already landed roles in 2 very un-Disney-like horror movies