Sony Pictures Secures Rights to Develop Feature Film Based on ‘Cartoon Cat’

TriStar Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures, has acquired the film rights to “Cartoon Cat,” the viral horror character created by artist Trevor Henderson. The project joins a recent wave of studio interest in internet-originated horror phenomena, following reported developments for other properties including SCP, “Siren Head,” and “The Mandela Catalogue.” While the studio has confirmed the acquisition, specific details regarding the film’s production schedule, casting, or release date remain unannounced.

The Origins of Cartoon Cat

Cartoon Cat is a digital horror creation conceptualized by illustrator Trevor Henderson. The character gained prominence through social media platforms, where Henderson’s images depicted the creature lurking in abandoned environments like shopping malls or factories.

Visually, the character mimics the aesthetic of 1920s and 1930s animation, characterized by a wide grin and elastic limbs. Despite its vintage aesthetic, Henderson has clarified that the character is an original creation rather than a derivative work based on existing characters. Within the lore, the creature is depicted as a shape-shifting entity that harbors a resentment toward humanity.

Hollywood’s Shift Toward Internet Horror

The acquisition of Cartoon Cat by TriStar Pictures highlights a broader industry trend of mining “creepypasta” and internet-based horror for intellectual property. According to reporting from *Deadline*, the bidding process for the rights to the character was competitive, reflecting an increased valuation of independent internet horror franchises by major studios.

This move follows a series of similar announcements in the horror space:

* SCP: A project being adapted for film.
* Siren Head: A project being adapted for film.
* The Mandela Catalogue: A project being adapted for film.

What to Expect from the Adaptation

As of today, Sony has not disclosed a creative team or a narrative outline for the *Cartoon Cat* film. The project is currently in development, with Nicole Brown and Malcolm Gray overseeing the development for TriStar Pictures. Fans of the source material have expressed interest in whether the film will be based directly on the original illustrations of Henderson or if it will present a completely new story inspired by the character.

Key Takeaways

• Studio Involvement: TriStar Pictures has officially secured the film rights to the character.
• Creator: Cartoon Cat was created by illustrator Trevor Henderson.
• Genre Context: This film is part of an industry-wide trend of adapting internet-native horror, or “creepypastas,” for theatrical release.
• Production Status: Development is in its early stages; no release date or screenplay details have been confirmed.