Fifteen years ago, a little anthology horror movie called Trick ‘r TreatOpens in a new tab hit theaters. It would change the face of the Halloween season. The film’s icon of All Hallow’s Eve mischief, SamOpens in a new tab, 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 classicOpens in a new tab. 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’sOpens in a new tab Trick ‘r Treat as part of this year’s edition of Beyond FestOpens in a new tab. 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 CinemathequeOpens in a new tab beginning on September 27.
Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.
