November 18, 1928: Walt Disney’s ‘Steamboat Willie’ premieres in New York

On November 18, 1928, the first successful sound-synchronized* animated cartoon*, Walt Disney’s “Steamboat Willie,” premiered* in New York.

It is an animated cartoon featuring Mickey Mouse. It was also the first sound cartoon to attract widespread attention and popularity.

The cartoon was written and directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. Music was put together by Wilfred Jackson and features popular melodies* including “Steamboat Bill” and “Turkey in the Straw.”

The film has been selected for preservation in the United States’ National Film Registry. In 1994 it was voted No. 13 of The 50 Greatest Cartoons of all time by members of the animation field.

Synopsis

Mickey is a steamboat pilot captained by Pete, trying to impress Minnie and make a little music along the way.