“Screamboat” Takes a Dive into Horror on Staten Island Ferry
Let’s dive into a bizarre new chapter in cinematic history, shall we? In a twist that even Kafka would find amusing, a demented horror flick titled “Screamboat” has hit theaters, featuring none other than David Howard Thornton, the man behind Art the Clown from “Terrifier.” This film reimagines the beloved “Steamboat Willie” as a nightmarish tale where a killer rodent goes on a rampage aboard the Staten Island ferry. You heard that right—a rodent. And not just any rodent, mind you, but a bloodthirsty mouse that gives Mickey a run for his money. The ferry in question? A decommissioned beauty bought by comedy duo Pete Davidson and Colin Jost for a cool $280,000, which has now become a floating set for this horror-comedy project.
Director Steven LaMorte, a Staten Island native, has long envisioned a slasher film set on the iconic ferry. He seized the opportunity when “Steamboat Willie” entered the public domain, freeing him from potential legal entanglements with Disney. As LaMorte cleverly pointed out, the Staten Island ferry’s historical connection to steam power made it the perfect backdrop for this twisted homage. With a backdrop of the New York City skyline, the film promises a unique blend of horror and comedy, something not often seen in mainstream cinema.
In preparation for this unique venture, LaMorte and his wife, Amy Schumacher, who also stars in the film, took extensive rides on the ferry, exploring every nook and cranny that could serve as a potential scene. Their dedication to authenticity is commendable—every detail was scrutinized to ensure realism, from the accents of the ferry’s passengers to the surprisingly low prices of beer served at the Liberty Cafe. Who knew a horror flick could also be a love letter to local culture?
What would Walt Disney think of all this bloody mischief involving his iconic creation? LaMorte suggests that Disney might appreciate the audacity and creativity behind the project—though one can only imagine the eyebrow-raising that would ensue if he were still around. As for the filmmakers, they’re embracing the chaos, knowing well that New Yorkers have a sixth sense for spotting the inauthentic.
In a world where beloved characters are now getting the horror treatment—think “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey”—“Screamboat” stands as a testament to the wild possibilities that creativity and public domain can unleash. And really, who wouldn’t want to see a mouse wielding a knife on a ferry?
Class dismissed. Try not to let this newfound wisdom go to waste.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post, Entertainment Weekly, Variety
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
