Inspired by the iconic Steamboat Willie, the upcoming horror film Screamboat is set to make its theatrical debut before eventually becoming available for streaming and Video on Demand (VOD). The original Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse is one of several characters and franchises that have lost copyright protections in the 2020s, creating exciting opportunities for filmmakers. Notably, just one day after the character entered the public domain, director Steven LaMorte unveiled plans for this horror adaptation.
While Screamboat isn’t the first horror film related to Steamboat Willie, it stands out due to its compelling premise and the talented producers behind it. The film, slated for release in 2025, revolves around a group of ferry passengers in New York City who find themselves under attack by a deadly mouse. With horror veteran David Howard Thornton portraying Steamboat Willie, audiences can expect a gripping experience. The film is finally set to hit theaters, with plans for streaming and VOD releases to follow.
Screamboat Releases In Theaters On April 2, 2025
Screamboat Will Have A Limited Theatrical Release
Screamboat’s release has been rescheduled from its initial January 2025 date to now premiere on April 2, 2025, across theaters in the US and Canada. As the film receives a limited theatrical release, it will only be shown in traditional 2D format, with availability potentially restricted in less populated areas unless the release plan is expanded later. Additionally, since Screamboat has yet to receive a rating from the MPAA, many theater chains are likely to categorize it as Rated-R, impacting viewer accessibility.
Find Showtimes For Screamboat
Showtimes for Screamboat will be accessible starting from April 2, 2025, through the following links:
When Will Screamboat Release On Streaming?
Screamboat Doesn’t Have An Official Streaming Release Date, Yet
Iconic Events is the primary distributor for Screamboat, and given its relatively brief history in the industry, there is no established timeline for when their films typically transition to streaming platforms. However, current trends suggest that Screamboat might be available on streaming services by around mid-May.
The specific streaming platform where Screamboat will debute remains uncertain. With DeskPop Entertainment also managing the film’s distribution, it could possibly land on popular services such as Netflix, Paramount+ with Showtime, Hulu, MGM+, Prime Video, or Tubi. Additionally, there is a chance it could be acquired by another streaming service, as previous releases from Iconic Events have appeared on platforms like Shudder and ScreamBox.
When Will Screamboat Release On Digital?
Screamboat’s VOD Release Could Take A While
Typically, films that receive a theatrical release will follow a standard distribution path, first debuting in theaters, then becoming available for VOD, and finally appearing on streaming platforms. However, Iconic Events has exhibited a unique trend where many of their titles land on streaming before VOD. The timeline for VOD releases can range broadly, typically from 36 to 221 days after the theatrical window closes. This means Screamboat could potentially be offered as a digital rental or purchase between May 8 and November 9, depending on audience demand and box office performance.