The public domain status of Disney’s Steamboat Willie has opened the floodgates for creative reinterpretations. Multiple films based on the character are now being made, including Screamboat and I Heart Willie. We’re here to discuss the latter.
Hewes Pictures is diving headfirst into the horror genre with I Heart Willie. This Steamboat Willie-inspired slasher film is set for a special One Night Only® theatrical release across North America this February. Directed by Alejandro G. Alegre, I Heart Willie promises a chilling origin story and a sinister reimagining of a beloved cartoon icon, all wrapped up in a horrifying love story.
The film follows popular YouTubers Daniel and Nico investigating a haunted property rumored to be home to a malevolent force. The legend centers around a deformed boy. He resembles a human-mouse hybrid and is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Steamboat Willie. Abused and isolated, this boy, now known as Willie, creates a gruesome bodysuit from the skins of trespassers. His horrific legacy fades into folklore over time, only to be reignited by a series of recent disappearances. As Daniel and Nico prepare for a night of spooky thrills, they unknowingly stumble into a deadly game of survival.
Longtime collaborators Princeton Holt (2050) and David Vaughn (American Rust) produce. Vaughn also penned the screenplay and stars as Willie. The cast includes Maya Luna, Micho Camacho, Sergio Rogalto, and Daniela Porras.
“We’re thrilled to bring I HEART WILLIE to audiences everywhere,” says executive producer Princeton Holt. “This film was made with the fans in mind, and we can’t wait for it to be an unforgettable experience—packed with scares, thrills, and a great time for everyone. We are confident I HEART WILLIE will become a cult classic, leaving fans talking long after the credits roll. By the way, speaking of end credits, don’t leave too early, or you might miss something.”
I Heart Willie was filmed in Michoacán, Mexico. Local producers Liz Sanchez and Arturo Renteria contributed. The cast and crew comprised mainly of Mexico City residents, worked to bring this dark tale to life. The film premiered to a sold-out audience at the Morbido Film Fest in Mexico City, prompting an encore screening due to overwhelming demand. I Heart Willie has garnered awards for Best Actress, Best Actor, and Best Director at various film festivals.
