Since movie theaters began reopening in the wake of the 2020 shutdowns, something unexpected has been happening at arthouses across America. Repertory screenings — older films, basically, often hand-selected and shown on celluloid prints — have become major draws, performing as well (or better than) new-release movies at many theaters.
Studios have started taking notice as well: Earlier this month, Warner Bros.’ newly formed Clockwork sub-label announced that Ken Russell’s infamous 1971 film The Devils would be returning to theaters, prompting major buzz around the film and the studio. Now, the relaunched Hammer Films — a company whose heyday was back in the 1960s and ‘70s — is getting in on the trend.