M3GAN Re-Release: Enhanced with 'Second Screen' and Live Chatbot

Top horror studio Blumhouse is set to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a bang, bringing back the 2022 hit M3GAN to theaters. In anticipation of the sequel's release, this limited theatrical engagement introduces some innovative features, sparking quite the controversy due to their encouragement of smartphone use during screenings.

As part of its Halfway to Halloween initiative, Shudder is set to screen M3GAN, alongside Ma and Annabelle, for one-night-only events. These screenings will incorporate Meta's "Movie Mate" technology, which allows audience members to interact with M3GAN through a chatbot and enjoy second screen capabilities. This feature will showcase exclusive content in real-time, enhancing the viewer's experience.

"Movie Mate is exclusively available to moviegoers in theaters and can be activated by sending a direct message to the Instagram account @M3GAN," Blumhouse explained in a report published by Variety. "This experience leverages Meta's capabilities to enhance and elevate the 'second screen' viewing, aiming to generate excitement ahead of M3GAN 2.0's release on June 27."

The studio also teased that fans can look forward to sneak peeks, exclusive messages from directors and talent, and surprise special appearances in select markets. While this approach might be seen as a bold move to revitalize the theatrical experience, it's also viewed as a potential threat to its traditional essence. Only time will tell how fans will respond to this unique experience, but the hope is that it doesn't become a staple in regular screenings.

The special screening of M3GAN will occur in various theaters across the nation on April 30, with Annabelle following on May 7, and Ma on May 14. M3GAN 2.0 is slated to hit U.S. theaters on June 27.