Filmax to Re-Release Manuela Velasco’s Found-Footage Horror Film “[REC]” in 4DX

Manuela Velasco is a REC again…

The 44-year-old Spanish actress’ acclaimed Spanish found-footage horror film [REC] will get a special re-release in the 4DX format, becoming the first Spanish non-CGI title to be adapted into the technology.

Manuela Velasco

4DX, originally developed by South Korean company CJ, augments a film experience with practical effects like motion seats, wind, strobe light and scents. 

The [REC] re-release is taking place initially at Cines Filmax Gran Via in Barcelona, where it’s coinciding with the inauguration of the venue’s second 4DX screen, which recently opened for business.

Spanish cinemas have tentatively been resuming business. Following the lockdown, sites began to re-open in late May with reduced capacity in certain areas. In Barcelona, this is the third weekend of the gradual resumption. 

To support the re-openings, Spain’s federation of cinemas and distributors joined forces to launch a publicity campaign to bring audiences back, with titles ranging from successful films from the last few years, like Parasite and Disney’s Onward, to classics, like Cinema Paradiso and The Shawshank Redemption

There have been a lack of fresh releases, however, with only a few new Spanish titles on offer, so the [REC] release is expected to boost to venues with 4DX technology. The film will also be available for international clients.

Filmax, which alongside operating cinemas also has distribution, sales and productions wings and produced [REC], said the4DX release had clocked in at four times higher than the national average per screen this weekend.

First released in 2007, [REC] won numerous accolades including a Goya Awards win for Best New Actress for Velasco. It racked up 1.4 million viewers in its home country, before being rolled out in more than 30 territories. It grossed $32.5 million off a minimal budget.

It follows a young TV reporter who goes to cover a story about a crew of firemen on duty. What seems to be a routine job soon turns in hell, with those inside the building becoming trapped. The film has also spawned three sequels to date.

“I’m so thrilled to know that both old and new fans of [REC]will be able to see the film in such a special format,” said co-director Jaume Balagueró on the re-release. “The experience will be so powerful, that it will be like watching [REC]for the first time all over again!”

[REC]has been one of the company’s greatest hits and an extremely important source of business for Filmax, becoming one of the most well-known international brands within the European independent film genre and solidifying Jaume and Paco [Plaza]’s reputations as top directors. It’s fantastic to see how this film, that has already brought us so much joy, can now have another life thanks to the 4DX format”, added Ivan Diaz, Head of International at Filmax.

Filmax’s CEO, Carlos Fernández, added, “With the release of [REC] in 4DX, we are giving the viewers the chance to relive, in first person, the experience of our protagonist, Angela Vidal. It’s a unique experience that only 4DX can provide. We’re sure that with this new format, the film will be even more frightening than before. It’s going to be a totally new experience for the audience.”

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