Mickey Mouse horror films announced as Disney copyright expires

On Jan 1, the iconic character from 'Steamboat Willie' entered the public domain after the expiration of the 95-year copyright, and is already the focus of two horror films. Photo: Handout

Oh boy! Barely 24 hours after Disney's initial copyright on Mickey Mouse expired, two new indie horror films starring the beloved character have been announced.

Steamboat Willie, the first Disney movie to feature Mickey, entered the public domain under US law on Monday, 95 years on from its initial release.