Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ Returning to Theaters for Limited Run
Following the death of Prince at the age of 57, the music icon’s classic 1984 film Purple Rain will reenter theaters for a limited run beginning this weekend. AMC Theatres and Carmike Cinemas are among the nationwide movie theater chains that will partner with Warner Bros. to offer screenings for fans looking to remember the rock legend’s legacy with his big screen debut, a semi-biographical portrayal of Prince‘s life and ascension.
AMC will digitally project Purple Rain in 87 of its multiplexes starting April 23rd through the 28th, while Carmike will show the film in 80 of its theaters across 24 states. Check out the AMC and Carmike sites for full screening details.
Purple Rain director Albert Magnoli issued a statement in remembrance of Prince on his official website. Magnoli also served as “ghost director” on Prince’s “lost” 1987 concert film Sign O’ the Times and briefly worked as the artist’s manager, overseeing Prince’s involvement on the Batman soundtrack.
“The news of Prince’s sudden and unexpected passing is very difficult to process. He was my creative partner and friend. We shared tremendous times together during and after the making of Purple Rain,” Magnoli, who also wrote and edited Prince’s star-making turn in the film, said. “I know his fans are devastated. I know his music meant so very much to so many people. He was a good man, complicated and diligent, and like men of his caliber, he always demanded from himself and others the very best. Travel well, friend, wherever your next journey takes you.”
In addition to Purple Rain coming back to theaters, Saturday Night Live, which had a repeat scheduled for this weekend, will devote the entire April 23rd episode to clips of Prince on the series.
A tribute to Prince. Tomorrow night at 11:30. pic.twitter.com/VKwcxhpmc5
— Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) April 23, 2016