Childhood Icon Popeye Gets a Terrifying Makeover in Upcoming Horror Movie

Get ready to see your childhood favorites in a way you never expected. In January 2025, Popeye is set to hit the big screen in a spine-chilling live-action horror movie.

ITN Studios just dropped the first teaser images via Bloody Disgusting, showing the iconic sailor like you’ve never seen him before. And no, this one isn’t part of the notorious “Poohniverse” or the so-called twisted childhood universe that brought you Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey.

Directed by William Stead, this dark reimagining stars Steven Murphy as the spinach-gulping, anchor-wielding seaman. The official synopsis teases: “The legend of Popeye haunts a group of councilors as they intend to open a summer camp.”

The ominous images showcase Popeye emerging from the water with that trademark grin twisted into something far more menacing. With comparisons being drawn to Jason Voorhees of Friday the 13th, it’s safe to say this isn’t your granddad’s Popeye.

While details are scarce, ITN has promised a trailer is on the way. No word yet on whether this will premiere in theaters or go straight to streaming, but given ITN’s track record of transforming nostalgic tales into nightmare fuel, fans are already holding their breath. Not to be confused with the TCU (Twisted Childhood Universe) of Blood and Honey fame, Popeye looks to make waves all on its own.

The TCU has been turning childhood stories into slasher hits since Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey shocked audiences in 2023. That film paved the way for its sequel and a lineup of other dark adaptations, including Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare and Bambi: The Reckoning. But with Popeye being its own terrifying tale, it’s not clear if it will ever cross paths with the TCU.

ITN’s distribution plans remain under wraps, but their previous projects have landed theatrical releases, so there’s hope for a big-screen debut. Fans can expect to hear more soon as ITN gears up for a full reveal.