I was initially apprehensive about watching The Mouse Trap, given the recent trend of rushed public domain movies that have often been boring and unimaginative. However, when Mickey Mouse became public domain in the form of Steamboat Willie and this film was announced, I was curious to see just how exploitative it might be.
The Mouse Trap is undeniably a low-budget slasher film, and it wears that label proudly. The film leans heavily on the Mickey Mouse character and Disney-related puns, almost to the point of overkill. The film’s one-dimensional storyline doesn’t do much to add depth or coherence, leaving viewers with more questions than answers as to the motivation behind the carnage.
The overuse of Disney references, while initially amusing, quickly becomes tiresome. The film seems to rely on the novelty of incorporating a beloved public domain character into a slasher context, but this novelty wears off as the movie progresses. For instance, the antagonist’s costume—a grotesque parody of the classic Steamboat Willie design—loses its impact after the first few appearances, becoming more of a distraction than a source of genuine horror.
That said, there’s an undeniable sense that the cast and crew had a great time making this movie, and that enthusiasm does shine through in the performances and the film's visual style. The actors, despite the flimsy script, seem to be fully committed to their roles, bringing a sense of fun and energy to the production.
The visual style of the film, while not groundbreaking, is creative within the constraints of its budget. The filmmakers clearly took inspiration from classic horror tropes and combined them with a playful, almost satirical approach.
Overall, The Mouse Trap may not be a masterpiece by any stretch, but it has its moments of entertainment. While the film’s reliance on Disney puns and the overuse of the Mickey Mouse character can be grating, the clear enjoyment of the cast and crew adds a certain appeal. It’s a film that’s fun for one watch, especially for those curious about how far a public domain slasher can push the boundaries, but it likely won’t hold up to repeated viewings. If you’re in the mood for a campy, low-budget horror flick with a unique twist, The Mouse Trap might be worth a look—just don’t expect too much beyond the novelty.
