Fifteen years ago, a little anthology horror movie called Trick ‘r Treat hit theaters. It would change the face of the Halloween season. The film’s icon of All Hallow’s Eve mischief, Sam, has become a spooky season merchandise king. Only, the film never had a wide release, and only played festivals. It finally got a Blu-ray release two years later, and it became an instant cult classic. But now, it’ll finally play in theaters across the country, as it should have back in 2007—starting with a special anniversary screening at Beyond Fest.
Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. have announced a special free screening of director Michael Dougherty’s Trick ‘r Treat as part of this year’s edition of Beyond Fest. The celebratory screening is taking place at the Hollywood Legion Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 1. It serves as the kickoff to the film’s first-ever theatrical run in over 900 theaters across North America and the UK this October.
The festival will also host an exclusive Q&A with Dougherty following the screening. Not to mention a few “Sam approved treats for those who obey the rules of Halloween.” Here’s what director Michael Dougherty had to say about Trick ‘r Treat’s return to cinema screens:
Helping Sam rise from the pumpkin patch has always been one of my greatest joys, and I couldn’t be happier to be doing it once more at Beyond Fest before finally unleashing Sam in theaters, where he was always meant to be seen. Muhahaha.
We heard about a Trick ‘r Treat sequel all the way back in 2013. But almost a decade later, Sam has yet to materialize again. Here’s hoping he makes his long-awaited return soon. Tickets for the Beyond Fest screening of Trick ‘r Treat are free. Guests can RSVP for seating while supplies last, exclusively at American Cinematheque beginning on September 27.
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