As Blumhouse Productions marks its 15th anniversary, they're set to re-release the 2022 horror hit, M3GAN, in theaters with a twist that's stirring up quite the debate. This limited theatrical run, ahead of the sequel's premiere, introduces innovative features that encourage smartphone use in cinemas, making it a controversial move in the film industry.
Under the banner of Shudder's Halfway to Halloween initiative, M3GAN, along with Ma and Annabelle, will be screened for one-night-only events. These screenings will incorporate Meta's "Movie Mate" technology, allowing audience members to engage directly with M3GAN through a chatbot and access exclusive content on their second screens in real-time.
"Movie Mate is exclusively available to those in the theater and can be activated by direct messaging the Instagram account @M3GAN," Blumhouse detailed in a statement to Variety. "This experience is tailored to enhance the 'second screen' viewing, building anticipation for the upcoming M3GAN 2.0, set to release on June 27."
Fans attending these special screenings can look forward to sneak peeks, exclusive messages from the films' directors and cast, and surprise appearances in select locations. While this move aims to rejuvenate excitement for theatrical releases, it raises concerns about the integrity of the traditional movie-going experience. It's a development that's less than thrilling to report on, but the true impact on audiences remains to be seen. Hopefully, this trend won't extend to regular screenings in the near future.
The M3GAN re-release is scheduled for April 30 across various theaters nationwide, followed by Annabelle on May 7, and Ma on May 14. The much-anticipated M3GAN 2.0 will premiere in U.S. theaters on June 27.