Sony Pictures will re-release Ivan Reitman‘s “Ghostbusters” over Labor Day weekend in honor of its 30th anniversary, the studio announced Thursday.
Sony will also celebrate the milestone anniversary of the blockbuster franchise with a series of special events and home entertainment releases.
The original 1984 film, which starred Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis and Annie Potts, has been restored and remastered in 4K and will return to the big screen on Aug. 29 for a limited engagement in over 700 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
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“‘Ghostbusters’ is still one of our studio’s most beloved franchises — I was lucky enough to work on the release of the film on its first run, so it’s a real thrill for me to see that it’s still connecting with audiences everywhere. On the big screen or in home entertainment, this is a great movie to experience again and again,” said Rory Bruer, Sony’s president of worldwide distribution.
Following the theatrical release of the film, Sony will release a “Ghostbusters” 30th Anniversary Edition on Blu-ray and the “Ghostbusters II” 25th Anniversary Edition” on Sept. 16, with the sequel making its debut on Blu-ray.
The Sony Pictures Home Entertainment releases of the films will also be available in a two-disc anniversary edition Blu-ray Digibook including both films, as well as a Limited Edition gift set that includes an exclusive collectible Slimer figurine and the two-disc Digibook. This special gift set will only be available for a very limited time. Both films have been fully restored and remastered in 4K and will be presented in high definition on Blu-ray from those 4K sources.
Both Blu-rays come loaded with exclusive bonus materials, including revealing conversations with Reitman and Aykroyd, as well as never-before-seen deleted scenes from “Ghostbusters II” and more.
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“To celebrate this milestone anniversary, we wanted to create something new and collectible for fans. These new “Ghostbusters” Blu-rays will feature the highest quality presentation along with new content that reflects the rich history of this iconic franchise,” said Lexine Wong, senior executive VP of worldwide marketing for Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.
Sony has also debuted a new Ghostbusters.com website where fans can access new franchise offerings, including unique video content and “Ghostbusters” news.
There will also be a slew of new merchandise from Sony Pictures Consumer Products to be released. Collaborations include Lego, Mattel, Funko, Mad Engine and other select items to help celebrate the occasion. In addition, SPCP partnered with Gallery 1988 to create a once-in a lifetime experience, displaying original paintings, limited edition prints, and sculptures inspired by the film.
Finally, Legacy Recordings / Sony Music Entertainment, will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic “Ghostbusters” soundtrack with multiple collectible vinyl LP releases this year.