Exclusive Premiere: Don't Miss These Must-See Anime Classics in US Theaters!

"AX Cinema Nights," a partnership between Iconic Events Releasing and Anime Expo, will be bringing a selection of renowned anime films to theaters across the US. This year-long celebration of anime will include the return of five classic movies, including the highly anticipated Cowboy Bebop movie. Fans can look forward to the beloved works of Satoshi Kon, with screenings of Perfect Blue, Paprika, and Tokyo Godfathers, as well as the original Ghost in the Shell film. Starting in September 2023 and continuing until February 2024, audiences will have the opportunity to experience these films in theaters once again, some of which haven't been seen in decades.

Anime Classics Finally Return to the Silver Screen

The first event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Perfect Blue is scheduled to take place on September 6 and 7, showcasing both the subtitled and English dubbed versions. A special encore presentation of both versions will also be held on September 10. Following this, Ghost in the Shell will be screened on November 8 and 9, with an encore on November 12. Tokyo Godfathers, celebrating its 20th anniversary, will be showcased on December 11 and 12, followed by encore screenings on December 13. In 2024, Cowboy Bebop will be shown on January 21 and 22, with encore screenings on January 23. Finally, Paprika will be presented on February 7 and 8, with encore screenings on February 11. Subtitles will be available on the first day, while the dubbed versions will be shown on the second day for all screenings.

The announcement of these films returning to theaters will undoubtedly bring great excitement to fans. As for Cowboy Bebop: The Movie, it is currently inaccessible on any streaming platform and has been absent from Blu-ray releases for over a decade, making physical copies quite rare. Ghost in the Shell, aside from being an incredible movie on its own, holds a prominent position within the cyberpunk genre. Perfect Blue and Paprika, both mind-bending psychological thrillers, are known to have influenced major Hollywood films such as Black Swan and Inception, respectively. Tokyo Godfathers showcases the director's talent for creating comedy, adding to his legendary status.

Screenings will be held in more than 300 theaters nationwide, making it easy for fans to locate a nearby theater showing the films. The availability of both subbed and dubbed screenings allows fans to choose their preferred viewing experience, a topic that frequently sparks discussion among them. This is a rare chance for Cowboy Bebop enthusiasts to catch the film on the big screen, and even anime lovers who are not acquainted with these films are likely to discover new favorites.