The Walt Disney Company and starred in several Disney produced films. Ub Iwerks refined Disney's initial design of Mickey Mouse. Disney's first sound film "Steamboat Willie", a cartoon starring Mickey, was released on November 18, 1928 through Pat Powers' distribution company. It was the first Mickey Mouse sound cartoon released, but the third to be created, behind "Plane Crazy" and "The Gallopin' Gaucho". "Steamboat Willie" was an immediate smash hit, and its initial success was attributed not just to Mickey's appeal as a character, but to the fact that it was the first cartoon to feature synchronized sound. Disney used Pat Powers' Cinephone system,
Criticism of The Walt Disney Company of copyrights except for the few owners of franchises that are wildly successful, such as Disney. Criticism of The Walt Disney Company The Walt Disney Company has prompted action from activists, artists, and causes around the world. Due to its status as a powerful and influential company, Disney's business practices, executives and content have been heavily disapproved in the media, as well as by activist groups. Some of Disney's various business ventures, including television networks, theme parks and product lines have also sparked controversy among groups of consumers and media outlets. In 1977, Roy E. Disney, the son of Disney