Regal Cinemas is bringing back its nationwide 31 Screams on Screen program throughout October, giving horror fans a full month of classic scares on the big screen. The annual series delivers 31 consecutive days of iconic genre cinema. And this year, it features selections curated by three prominent horror filmmakers: James Wan (The Conjuring, Insidious, Saw), Nia DaCosta (Candyman, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple), and Curry Barker (Anything But Ghosts, Obsession).
Designed to celebrate the shared auditorium experience, tickets for all daily marathon screenings are priced at $7.99, with full access available for Regal Unlimited subscribers.
Acclaimed Directors Share Personal Horror Favorites
Each guest director curated four foundational films that shaped their appreciation for the genre, bringing a diverse mix of Gothic horror, psychological thrillers, and creature features back to theaters:
James Wan’s Picks:
Wan selected these mainstream titles to highlight their singular directorial artistry on the big screen.
“While these are often considered mainstream genre films, they were each made with such a unique vision and singular artistry that they’ve not only stood the test of time, but have become truly beloved, continuing to find new generations of devoted fans,” said James Wan. “Each one holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited for audiences to experience them again the way they were meant to be seen: together, in a dark theater, and on the big screen!”
Nia DaCosta’s Picks:
DaCosta highlighted the rare opportunity to experience cinematic landmarks like The Thing and Candyman in an auditorium setting for the first time.
“I’m so excited to share just a few of my favorite horror films; movies that have, in one way or another, stuck with me over the years,” said Nia DaCosta. “The Thing and Candyman I never got to see in theatres, so I’m excited that we’re getting the chance to see them on the big screen at Regal.”
Curry Barker’s Picks:
Barker noted these features directly inspired his career path as a filmmaker.
“Films like these are a big part of why I wanted to become a filmmaker, and I’m thrilled that audiences will have a chance to experience these on a big screen together, alongside the new 4DX version of OBSESSION,” said Curry Barker.
Daily Schedule Features Modern Classics, Double Features, and Premium Formats
Alongside the director-curated picks, Regal’s programming team filled out the remaining lineup with acclaimed modern entries, foundational slasher hits, and special double-feature pairings. Highlights include The Blackcoat’s Daughter opening the marathon on October 11, The Shining on October 22, In the Mouth of Madness on October 9, Scream 2 on October 17, and Trick r Treat anchoring Halloween night.
Special programming events include a dual screening of Nia DaCosta’s 1992 selection Candyman alongside her 2021 sequel on October 16, a double-feature pairing of A Nightmare on Elm Street with A Nightmare on Elm Street 3:Re-releases on October 18, and a premium 4DX re-release of Curry Barker’s Obsession on October 14.
All-Ages Spooky Titles and Limited-Edition Collector Merch
To accommodate younger audiences and families seeking festive entertainment, Regal added select weekend matinees and all-ages titles throughout the month. The lineup features repeating screenings of The Nightmare Before Christmas alongside scheduled showings for Monster House, Goosebumps, The Monster Squad, The Addams Family, and The House with a Clock in Its Walls.
Additionally, participating theater locations will sell limited-edition concessions merchandise startingOctober 11 while supplies last, including collectible popcorn containers themed after the Blumhouse franchise, Jason Voorhees, and Santa Jack Skellington. Advance tickets and full showtimes are available across the Regal app and official website.
“Horror is always played best to a full house. The screams that ripple through an auditorium and the nervous laughter right behind them are part of what makes seeing these films together so much fun,” said Brooks LeBoeuf, Senior Vice President of US Content at Regal. “Curry, Nia, and James each answered the question every horror fan wants to ask a filmmaker: what scares the people who scare us? Their picks, alongside selections from our film team, give audiences 31 days to find out.”
