AMC Networks’ streamers HIDIVE and Shudder will partner with Iconic Events Releasing to bring the 40th anniversary re-release of horror anime Vampire Hunter D to U.S. and Canadian theaters this spring, on April 9, 10 & 13, as part of AX Cinema Nights’ 2024/2025 Season. The Japanese cult classic film will then make its streaming debut on both platforms later this year.
“In 1985, Vampire Hunter D cemented its place in cinematic history as a truly genre-defining work of horror,” said John Ledford, President of HIDIVE. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Vampire Hunter D and partner with both Shudder and Iconic Events Releasing to bring this seminal film to both horror and anime fans across the U.S. and Canada.”
“We’re thrilled to be part of a collaboration that will bring Vampire Hunter D, a cult classic genre film, to both theatrical and streaming audiences as part of Iconic’s popular AX Cinema Nights lineup,” said Scott Shooman, Head of AMC Networks’ Film Group. “It’s also a great example of the synergy and strength of our brands, as Shudder and HIDIVE partner on a streaming debut that will share this pivotal film with two of the most passionate fanbases in horror and anime.”
Released in 1985, Vampire Hunter D is the OVA adaptation of the best-selling novel series by Hideyuki Kikuchi, directed by Toyoo Ashida. As part of today’s announcement, HIDIVE unveiled the special 40th anniversary key art and theatrical trailer created for the film’s re-release.
Synopsis: In the year 12,090 A.D. technology and the supernatural have overtaken the world, leaving the land desolate and despotic. The remnants of humanity are scattered into small communities and live in fear of vampires who compose the ruling Nobility. When Count Magnus Lee tastes the blood of Doris Lang, she is forcibly chosen to be his next wife. In an effort to escape her ill-gotten fate she hires a mysterious vampire hunter known only as D, who comes from a peculiar lineage.
“When it was first released, Vampire Hunter D was a stunning landmark in Japanese anime, set in a world of post-apocalyptic horror and fantasy where vampires roam,” said Steven Menkin, President & Co-founder of Iconic Events Releasing. “Now 40 years later, fans of all ages can experience one of the true all-time classic anime on the big screen. Iconic is proud to partner with HIDIVE and Shudder on these special screenings.”
HIDIVE and Shudder will present a digitally remastered version of the original Vampire Hunter D OVA that was produced by Sentai Filmworks in 2015. The title is the final film joining AX Cinema Nights’ previously announced line-up and will close-out the film series’ 2024/2025 Season.
Iconic Events Releasing will screen the movie in both Japanese with English subtitles and English dub at over 500 North American cinemas on April 9 (English sub), 10 (English dub) & 13 (encore dub screening).
Directed by Toyoo Ashida from a screenplay by Yasushi Hirano, Vampire Hunter D features character design by celebrated artist Yoshitaka Amano. The animation was produced by Ashi Productions. The Japanese voice cast features Kaneto Shiozawa, Michie Tomizawa, Keiko Toda, Seizo Kato, Satoko Kito, Kazuyasu Sogabe and Ichiro Nagai.
Advance tickets for Vampire Hunter D are available for purchase now at ax-cinemanights.com and participating theater box offices.
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