Legendary Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures and Saga Arts — in partnership with Fathom Entertainment — are bringing Michael Dougherty’s cult Halloween classic Trick ’r Treat back to cinemas in a newly restored 4K presentation for two nights only: October 14 and October 16, 2025. Don’t miss bonus content from Dougherty himself.
Why this re-release matters
Since its debut, Trick ’r Treat has evolved from a festival favorite into a modern Halloween staple — part anthology, part cautionary tale, and all spooky fun. The 4K restoration highlights Michael Dougherty’s vivid visuals and the film’s mosaic of interlocking Halloween tales, polishing the gore, the practical effects, and that unforgettable design work behind the film’s unofficial mascot: Sam.
“Horror fans have long been thirsting for Trick ‘r Treat to take its rightful place back on the big screen and in cinemas nationwide. Fathom is thrilled to bring this classic horror film back in theatres in sparkling 4K with our partners just in time for Halloween,” said Tom Lucas, Vice President of Studio Relations at Fathom Entertainment.
What fans can expect at the screening
This limited theatrical run delivers more than just the restored feature — attendees can expect:
- The newly restored 4K presentation of Trick ’r Treat, optimized for big-screen viewing.
- Bonus featurette with Michael Dougherty, sharing the Halloween memories and creative inspirations behind the film and Sam’s creation.
- Season’s Greetings (1996) — the original animated short that first introduced Sam, now presented in 4K before the feature.
Cast & creative highlights
Written and directed by Michael Dougherty (known for Krampus and Godzilla: King of the Monsters), Trick ’r Treat weaves together several dark tales set on Halloween night. Notable cast members include:
- Anna Paquin (the young virgin’s escalating nightmare)
- Brian Cox (a terrifying face-off with Sam)
- Dylan Baker (a principal with a sinister double life)
- Leslie Bibb (and scenes that explore the consequences of ignoring Halloween ritual)
These performances, paired with Dougherty’s whip-smart writing and affection for Halloween lore, have cemented the film’s status as a perennial watch every October.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb8dO4RFSRI
Director’s Featurette — A personal look at Halloween
In the event’s exclusive bonus content, Michael Dougherty revisits the childhood rituals, urban legends and seasonal memories that inspired Trick ’r Treat. The featurette offers fans a personal behind-the-scenes perspective on Sam’s origins and how generations keep Halloween myths alive.
How to see it (tickets & theaters)
Dates: October 14 & October 16, 2025 (Two nights only).
Tickets: Available now at FathomEntertainment.com and participating theater box offices. (Theater listings and participating locations are subject to change.)
Pro tip: buy early — limited engagements like this often sell out in advance, especially around Halloween season.
About Michael Dougherty
Michael Dougherty began his career as an animator for MTV and Nickelodeon before co-writing blockbuster screenplays like X2: X-Men United and Superman Returns. He made his directorial debut with Trick ’r Treat (2007), and later directed the holiday horror favorite Krampus (2015). Dougherty also co-wrote and directed entries in Legendary’s MonsterVerse and currently serves as Executive Vice President of Entertainment at Colossal Biosciences.
For press assets (artwork and photos) visit the Fathom Entertainment press site. For the latest updates and showtimes, check FathomEntertainment.com.

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