Vampire Hunter D Returns to Theaters for 40th Anniversary Celebration
This spring, the legendary anime Vampire Hunter D returns to theaters to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Fans of horror and anime are in for a treat this spring as AMC Networks’ streaming platforms, HIDIVE and Shudder, join forces with Iconic Events Releasing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic Japanese anime film, Vampire Hunter D. The cult classic will return to theaters across the U.S. and Canada on April 9, 10, and 13, 2025, as part of AX Cinema Nights’ 2024/2025 Season. Following its theatrical run, the film will make its streaming debut on both HIDIVE and Shudder later this year.
Originally released in 1985, Vampire Hunter D is widely regarded as a groundbreaking work in the horror anime genre. Directed by Toyoo Ashida and based on the best-selling novel series by Hideyuki Kikuchi, the film tells the story of D, a mysterious vampire hunter navigating a post-apocalyptic world where vampires and humans collide. The film’s stunning visuals, haunting atmosphere, and compelling narrative have cemented its status as a seminal piece of anime history.
To commemorate the 40th anniversary, HIDIVE has unveiled special key art and a theatrical trailer, offering fans a glimpse of the digitally remastered version of the film. This remastered edition, originally produced by Sentai Filmworks in 2015, will be presented in both Japanese with English subtitles and an English dub, ensuring that fans of all preferences can enjoy the film on the big screen.
A Celebration of Horror and Anime
John Ledford, President of HIDIVE, expressed his excitement about the re-release, stating, “In 1985, Vampire Hunter D cemented its place in cinematic history as a truly genre-defining work of horror. We’re thrilled to celebrate its 40th anniversary and partner with both Shudder and Iconic Events Releasing to bring this seminal film to horror and anime fans across the U.S. and Canada.”
Scott Shooman, Head of AMC Networks’ Film Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the collaboration’s significance. “It’s also a great example of the synergy and strength of our brands, as Shudder and HIDIVE partner on a streaming debut that will share this pivotal film with two of the most passionate fanbases in horror and anime.”
Steven Menkin, President & Co-founder of Iconic Events Releasing, reflected on the film’s enduring legacy. “When it was first released, Vampire Hunter D was a stunning landmark in Japanese anime, set in a world of post-apocalyptic horror and fantasy where vampires roam. Now, 40 years later, fans of all ages can experience one of the true all-time classic anime films on the big screen. Iconic is proud to partner with HIDIVE and Shudder on these special screenings.”
AX Cinema Nights’ Grand Finale
Vampire Hunter D will serve as the closing film for AX Cinema Nights’ 2024/2025 Season, joining an impressive lineup of anime and genre films. The movie will be screened in over 500 North American theaters, with showings on April 9 (Japanese with English subtitles), April 10 (English dub), and April 13 (encore dub screening). This wide release ensures that fans across the continent will have the opportunity to experience the film in a communal, cinematic setting.
How to Watch
Advance tickets for Vampire Hunter D are now available for purchase at ax-cinemanights.com and participating theater box offices. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Vampire Hunter D, this 40th-anniversary celebration is the perfect opportunity to experience a piece of anime history on the big screen.
About the Film
- Title: Vampire Hunter D
- Original Language: Japanese
- Runtime: 80 minutes
- Original Work: Based on the novel Vampire Hunter D by Hideyuki Kikuchi (Published by Asahi Sonorama)
- Director: Toyoo Ashida
- Screenplay: Yasushi Hirano
- Character Design: Yoshitaka Amano
- Animation Character Design: Noriyasu Yamauchi, Indori-goya
- Production Design: Satoshi Matsudaira
- Animation Director: Hiromi Matsushita
- Director of Photography: Kazushi Torikoshi, Yukio Sugiyama
- Music: Tetsuya Komuro
- Executive Producers: Shigeo Maruyama, Yutaka Takahashi
- Producers: Mitsuhisa Koeda, Hiroshi Kato, Yukio Nagasaki
- Animation Production: Toshihiko Sato, Ashi Productions CO., LTD.
- Japanese Voice Cast: Kaneto Shiozawa, Michie Tomizawa, Keiko Toda, Seizo Kato, Satoko Kito, Kazuyasu Sogabe, Ichiro Nagai
Don’t miss your chance to witness the return of Vampire Hunter D to theaters this spring. Whether you’re drawn to its haunting visuals, gripping story, or historical significance, this 40th-anniversary re-release is a must-see event for fans of horror and anime alike.
Source: HIDIVE
