M3GAN Re-Release: 'Second Screen' and Live Chatbot Added

Blumhouse, the renowned horror studio, is gearing up to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a bang. They're bringing back the 2022 blockbuster M3GAN to theaters, but this time with a twist, just ahead of the sequel's release. This limited theatrical run is stirring up some controversy due to its innovative yet divisive approach to audience engagement.

As part of their Halfway to Halloween initiative, Shudder will showcase M3GAN, alongside Ma and Annabelle, in one-night-only screenings. These screenings will feature Meta's "Movie Mate" technology, allowing audience members to interact directly with M3GAN through a chatbot. Additionally, second screen capabilities will provide viewers with exclusive content in real-time, enhancing their movie-going experience.

"Movie Mate is exclusively accessible to theater attendees and can be activated by direct messaging the Instagram account @M3GAN," Blumhouse detailed in a report by Variety. This innovative feature aims to enrich the 'second screen' viewing experience and build anticipation for the upcoming M3GAN 2.0, set to premiere on June 27.

Fans attending these screenings can look forward to sneak peeks, exclusive messages from the films' directors and talent, and surprise appearances in select locations. While this approach is designed to inject excitement into the movie experience, it raises questions about the future of traditional theater-going. The impact on the core theatrical experience remains to be seen, and it's hoped that such interactive features don't become a norm in regular screenings.

The M3GAN screenings are scheduled for 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.