Prince fans, get ready to experience Purple Rain like never before. The legendary 1984 film is heading back to the big screen on March 5 for a one-night-only event in Dolby Cinema at AMC Theatres across the U.S. and Odeon locations in the U.K.
Warner Bros. Discovery and Dolby are rolling out the red carpet for this re-release, presenting the film in Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos, delivering a clearer, crisper, and more immersive experience than ever before. Even the 40th-anniversary 4K disc released in may 2024, which was already restored from an 8K scan of the original 35mm negative, won’t compare to the sheer depth, color grading, and sound precision of this Dolby-enhanced theatrical run.
It’s not just about seeing Prince in all his cinematic glory—it’s about hearing him, too. The Dolby Atmos sound mix was built from the original Dolby Stereo tracks, incorporating elements from a 5.1 multi-channel mix first assembled for the film’s 20th anniversary. This means audiences will experience Prince and The Revolution, The Time, and Apollonia 6’s electrifying performances with unprecedented depth, clarity, and surround sound magic that Dolby Atmos delivers.
Jed Harmsen, Dolby’s Head of Cinema and Group Entertainment, described the event as a “celebration of Prince’s genius and enduring legacy.” He added, “Devoted and new fans alike, prepare to be exhilarated by an unforgettable and unparalleled performance from one of music’s greatest of all time.”
Directed by Albert Magnoli, Purple Rain follows The Kid (Prince) as he navigates the pressures of fame, a turbulent home life, and rival musicians while carving out his own legacy. The film cemented Prince as a global icon, earning over $70 million at the box office and securing him an Oscar for Best Original Song Score.
And then there’s the soundtrack—one of the most celebrated albums of all time. The 13x platinum-certified album held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 for 24 consecutive weeks and spawned hit after hit, including “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” and the iconic title track “Purple Rain.”
Since Prince’s passing in 2016, Purple Rain has taken on an even greater cultural significance. Whether it’s your first time seeing it on the big screen or your fiftieth, this Dolby Cinema experience is set to be the definitive way to witness the magic of Prince.
Mark your calendars—March 5 is your chance to purify yourself in the waters of Lake Minnetonka one more time.