Exclusive Interview: Inside the Making of ‘SCREAMBOAT’ with Writer/Director Steven LaMorte and Star/Producer Amy Schumacher – PopHorror

Walt Disney once said, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors and doing new things.” Writer/director Steven LaMorte and producer Amy Schumacher are embracing this spirit with their new film, Screamboat. This project takes Walt’s classic 1928 cartoon, featuring Mickey Mouse, and spins it into a fresh tale that’s both funny and scary.

The story unfolds on the Staten Island Ferry during its final run, where a diverse group of passengers faces off against a relentless rat. The film features David Howard Thornton as Steamboat Willie, Amy Schumacher as EMT Amber, Tyler Posey as Radio Operator Mike, Jesse Posey as Pete, and Kailey Hyman as Cindi, who along with her friends, celebrates a birthday with a touch of Disney flair.

In an interview with PopHorror, LaMorte and Schumacher shared their excitement about reimagining a beloved character. They wanted to create a film that honors both Disney and the unique culture of New York, especially Staten Island. LaMorte, a Staten Island native, expressed his long-time desire to set a horror film on the ferry. He believes its vastness offers endless possibilities for terror.

When Steamboat Willie entered the public domain in January, it opened the door for the filmmakers. LaMorte said, “It was the perfect character to bring mischief to New Yorkers, with the iconic backdrop of NYC.”

Schumacher noted the familial bond among the cast and crew, many of whom have collaborated on previous projects. They stressed how working with familiar faces fosters creativity and trust.

Fans can expect a lot of New York’s essence in Screamboat. They shot much of the film on a decommissioned ferry, capturing the true vibe of the city. This authenticity adds depth, as the ferry itself serves as a character in the story.

A unique choice in the film is depicting Willie as a tiny creature, which adds to both the humor and horror. Thornton brings this character to life with an engaging performance filled with quirky sounds. As LaMorte explained, making Willie small was crucial to the film’s comedic tone, reminiscent of classic horror films with miniature villains like Gremlins.

In terms of feedback from Disney fans, Schumacher and LaMorte are optimistic. “We’re huge Disney fans ourselves,” Schumacher said. “We wanted to create an experience that resonates with both Disney lovers and horror enthusiasts.” LaMorte echoed this sentiment, stating, “We respect the original, and this film is our tribute to it.”

With the rise of horror-comedy blending genres successfully, there’s a chance to attract both horror aficionados and Disney fans alike. As filmmaker horror trends evolve, more audiences are open to these innovative takes on familiar characters.

This dynamic film offers not just scares but also a dose of nostalgia and laughter. It symbolizes a merging of the innocence of childhood memories with a grown-up twist. The potential for merchandise, like Willie plushies, has also sparked interest among fans, hinting at a successful wider franchise.

With Screamboat now in theaters, it may just inspire a new wave of Disney-loving horror fans, bridging two beloved cultures in a unique and entertaining way.

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