Screamboat is an upcoming American comedy horror film directed by Steven LaMorte. It is a reimagining of Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks's 1928 animated short film, Steamboat Willie. The film follows a group of New Yorkers who are terrorized by a monstrous rat. It stars David Howard Thornton, Allison Pittel, Amy Schmacher, Jesse Posey, Kailey Hyman, Jesse Kove, and Jarlath Conroy.
LaMorte said the film is "the story of a late-night ferry ride in New York City where commuters and deckhands and all the usual passengers are attacked by a murderous and mischievous mouse who is mean, tiny, and loves getting up to no good".[3]
After Steamboat Willie's copyright lapsed, LaMorte began working on a then-untitled horror film based on the short. The film was later announced with the first teaser.[1][2] The official title, Screamboat, was officially revealed in April 2024.[4] The puppet and costume for Thornton's mouse creature character was designed by Quantum Creation FX.[3]
On June 10, some cast was revealed, including Thornton as the main antagonist.[5] In November 2024, Kailey Hyman was announced in a key role, and cameos are played by Tyler Posey and comedians Brian Quinn and Joe DeRosa.[6][7] The ferry used in the film is owned by Colin Jost and Pete Davidson.[8]
Screamboat is scheduled for theatrical release by Iconic Events Releasing and DeskPop Entertainment (home media) on April 2, 2025.[9][10] The release was originally scheduled for January 24, 2025.[3] In February 2025, Signature Entertainment acquired distribution rights for the United Kingdom and Ireland.[11]