For ardent admirers of stop-motion animation, the nostalgic re-release of “Coraline” is not just a cinematic event but a resurgence of a beloved classic that has captured hearts since its debut. Scheduled to hit theaters again starting Halloween, this project from Laika Studios has managed to enthrall both novices and longtime fans alike. Following a successful re-release in August that amassed over $53 million worldwide for the film’s 15th anniversary, the anticipation is palpable. As Laika partners with Fathom Events for its U.S. showing and Trafalgar Releasing internationally, it is clear that the hunger for quality animated features has not waned.
What sets this re-release apart is the commitment to providing audiences with a fresh experience through newly remastered formats. Viewers can enjoy “Coraline” in both 3D and 2D, enhancing the vivid, intricate visual storytelling that has made it a hallmark of animation. These formats are not merely gimmicks; they aim to deepen the viewer’s engagement with the film, transporting them back into the richly crafted, eerie world that director Henry Selick and the team at Laika so artfully created. In addition to the film, audiences will catch a sneak peek of Laika’s forthcoming project, “Wildwood,” adding to the overall allure of the re-release.
The impressive box office return from the initial re-release has not only solidified “Coraline” as a classic but also allowed it to carve out a prominent place in animation history. The film now holds the record for the highest-grossing stop-motion animated feature in U.S. history, surpassing iconic films such as “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Chicken Run.” This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and cultural significance of “Coraline.” Laika’s Chief Marketing and Operations Officer, David Burke, expressed the elation felt by the studio, emphasizing the film’s impact across international markets, notably setting box office records in regions like the UK and Mexico.
As the Halloween screening date approaches, the re-release will kick off in various countries including the U.K., Ireland, Australia, Canada, Austria, and Ecuador, with France and Italy set to participate in this anniversary celebration in November. This widespread engagement exemplifies how “Coraline” has transcended geographical boundaries and fostered a global community of fans who appreciate its gothic magic.
At its core, “Coraline” is more than just an animated film; it serves as a poignant reflection of childhood fears and desires. Its return to theaters during a whimsical season like Halloween serves to magnify that connection, allowing viewers to relive the eerie enchantment within the narrative. With tickets now on sale, the excitement builds as fans prepare to experience “Coraline” once again on the big screen, immersing themselves in its dark yet alluring world.
Laika’s re-release of “Coraline” this Halloween not only leverages nostalgia but reaffirms the film’s status as a modern classic, ensuring that this dark fantasy continues to be cherished for years to come.