Distributor GKIDS and Director Hideaki Anno have released a trailer for the theatrical return of EVANGELION:DEATH (TRUE)² & REBIRTH across North America [1, 2].
This release marks a rare opportunity for audiences to view previously unreleased film material on the big screen to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the franchise [1, 2].
The theatrical run is scheduled to begin July 21, 2024 [1]. The event is structured as a two-night engagement across U.S. theaters [2]. This limited window allows fans to experience the cinematic versions of the story that originally branched from the television series [1].
The franchise first gained global prominence when the original TV series aired from 1995 to 1996 [1]. The current anniversary celebrations include not only the theatrical screenings, but also digital content. Earlier this year, a special anniversary short featuring two versions of the character Asuka streamed on March 8, 2024 [3].
EVANGELION:DEATH (TRUE)² & REBIRTH serves as a bridge and distillation of the series' complex narrative. By bringing these films back to theaters, GKIDS said it aims to provide a communal viewing experience for a series known for its dense psychological themes and influential animation style [1, 2].
While the original series concluded decades ago, the demand for high-quality theatrical presentations remains high among the North American fanbase. The two-night event is designed to capitalize on this nostalgia while honoring the legacy of Anno's work [2].
“The theatrical run is scheduled to begin July 21, 2024.”
The theatrical re-release of these specific films highlights the enduring commercial viability of 1990s anime in the modern U.S. market. By utilizing a limited two-night event model, GKIDS is treating the franchise as a prestige event rather than a standard release, which maximizes exclusivity and collector interest for the 30th anniversary.
