ITN Studios is reimagining some childhood favorite characters with a darker, more terrifying twist. As beloved figures like Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh enter the public domain, they become available for new interpretations, including darker reboots.
Popeye, the iconic sailor, is the latest classic character to receive such a rework. ITN is preparing to bring Popeye into the horror genre with his own slasher film, though it won’t be part of their “Twisted Childhood Universe.”
The official movie synopsis teases that “The legend of Popeye haunts a group of counselors as they intend to open a summer camp.” Set to be “raunchy and gory,” the film is slated for release in January 2025.
Steve Murphy will play the lead role in this horror film, with Rene August producing and William Lead directing. Bloody Disgusting has obtained exclusive teaser images from the movie, with a trailer expected to follow.
In the photos, Popeye is seen emerging from the water onto a dock, wearing his signature sailor hat and seemingly shackled at the wrists. His menacing gaze at another character hints at the film’s sinister tone.
One still further emphasizes the slasher aspect of the movie, showing Popeye bloodied and grim. His sailor uniform, once pristine white, is now stained with blood, and his iconic pipe hangs from his mouth.
Though it’s unclear exactly how Popeye will dispatch his victims, one image shows him holding a trident or anchor, a clear potential weapon for his slashing spree.
Another image depicts Popeye in a threatening pose, looming close to a victim, possibly strangling them as his silhouette casts a chilling shadow.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the film’s release. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) humorously wrote, “Bro probably will eat spinach and go on a slaughter spree in this one. Never imagined a childhood cartoon like this lmao.”
Another added, “A horror twist on Popeye? This is definitely going to be wild! Can’t wait to see how they pull off a raunchy and gory slasher with such a classic character. 2025 can’t come soon enough!”
