This is such a pathetic move on Disney/Marvel's part if true. Like really?
One, it's an obvious ploy just to turn more bucks.
Two, it's a reaction to the TDKR in an attempt to steal some of its box office thunder and it's an idiotic one as most GA will choose a movie THEY HAVENT seen over a film they already have, and is now being re-released just to turn more money.
Also, keep in mind, that this re-release will not have IMAX showings as IMAX is contracted to TDKR through October.
Just dumb on so many levels.
First off, it's just a rumor at this stage unless you have definite information to the contrary.
Second, it's not pathetic at all. There are over thirty minutes of material that would have been in the film if not for time and pacing considerations. Reintegrating that footage as the director originally intended is something that has been done many times before. (
Blade Runner is the example that springs most readily to mind.) There are many fans who would happily see the film again in order to experience that
Third, re-releasing a film to increase its box office take has been done before. WB did it with TDK in 2009, hoping to reach the $1 billion mark.
The Phantom Menace and
Titanic were re-released just this year, with the flimsy excuse of 3D conversions. In fact, countless films have returned to theaters over the decades, and it's always about making more money. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that since making money is the ultimate goal of any studio film.
Fourth, we've seen that IMAX contracts aren't so ironclad as they seem. The contracts in place for
Dark Shadows were bent (if not broken) when theater operators decided that they wanted the money they could make from
The Avengers instead. While I have no idea whether or not the same thing will happen with TDKR, later in its run, it is clear that the possibility of TA getting some of those screens does exist. And even if the IMAX screens aren't available, 3D screens are a different matter.
It's just a rumor and may not be correct, but if Disney did re-release
The Avengers it would hardly be a "dumb" move. It could actually be rather brilliant. From a fan's perspective, the more money the movie makes, the better, because it gives Disney more confidence in the entire franchise (if such is needed). It will also be intriguing to see how the additional footage changes the film artistically.
