There’s been a growing trend of theatrical rereleases, as multiplexes increasingly fill screens with classic films and past hits. Recent and upcoming rereleases include “Black Swan” (2010), “Batman” (1989), “Clue” (1985), “The Breakfast Club” (1985), “Toy Story” (1995), “Apollo 13” (1995), and “Casper” (1995).
The biggest success out of these might very well be IMAX’s rerelease of “Jaws,” which is proving its lasting impact. The Spielberg classic is set to take second place this weekend at the box-office with a staggering $10M four-day Holiday weekend tally.
“Jaws” beat out newer releases “Caught Stealing” and “The Roses,” which ended up showing in more screens nationwide and weren’t released 50 years ago.
The strong performance of “Jaws” will likely result in many more rereleases to come. The fact that it can surface at the box office with numbers rivaling contemporary titles suggests that certain classics have a timeless theatrical draw, especially when enhanced by premium formats.
Studios like Universal have dramatically expanded their rerelease slates — 12 titles in 2025 versus just two in 2023 — citing audience demand. Nostalgia and anniversaries drive interest, but rereleases also help compensate for thinner slates by studios.
Financially, these are relatively low-cost and occasionally highly profitable. For example, “Interstellar”(2014) earned $38M worldwide in its rerelease, and “Coraline” (2009) grossed $34M in 3-D. Fathom Events, which specializes in special screenings, has seen rereleases become about 20% of its revenue.
The next big rerelease will be Ron Howard’s “Apollo 13,” set to hit theaters for seven straight days starting September 18.