In 1998, Darren Aronofsky debuted his film “Pi” at the Sundance Film Festival and made a shrewd move by securing the rights to the film. Now, 25 years later, he has sold the rights to A24, who plan to release a remastered version of the numbers-inspired psychological thriller both in theaters and on digital platforms later this year. To mark the film’s 25th anniversary, A24 will re-release an 8K and Atmos restoration version, which will be shown exclusively on IMAX screens on Pi Day, March 14.
Reflecting on the journey that brought him to this point, Aronofsky spoke of his determination to ensure that the rights to “Pi” returned to its creators, which was inspired by his hero Jim Jarmusch. After almost a quarter of a century, his efforts have finally paid off. To prepare for the upcoming release, Aronofsky and his team went back to the original black and white reversal 16mm film and scanned it at 8K while also converting the original stereo mix into an Atmos experience. The result is a film that has never looked or sounded better.
Despite initial skepticism from others, Aronofsky remained convinced that this was the right move. He is now excited to collaborate with A24 and release the remastered version of “Pi” on Pi Day in IMAX and is looking forward to welcoming audiences back to the theater after a challenging year for the industry. This release will provide an opportunity for fans of the film to rediscover it on the big screen and experience it in a whole new way.
In “Pi,” Sean Gullette plays a mathematician who becomes consumed with finding patterns in the universe as part of his search for meaning. Aronofsky sees the film’s themes of optimism about uncovering the secrets of our existence as even more relevant today in our rapidly changing world.
During a recent conversation, Aronofsky reflected on how much the world has changed since the film’s debut, and how easy it is to forget that change is constant. However, he also finds hope in the fact that there’s a possibility of the finite and infinite happening at once, and he believes that optimism is more necessary than ever in a world filled with anxiety, fear, and disconnection.
Looking ahead to the next 25 years, Aronofsky is convinced that optimism will be a vital force for positive change. He believes that by embracing the spirit of endless possibility that characterized the 90s, we can overcome our current challenges and create a brighter future for all. In this way, “Pi” remains a powerful reminder of the importance of hope, curiosity, and perseverance in the face of uncertainty.
Pi will re-release exclusively in IMAX on March 14th, 2023.
Watch the Pi Re-Release Trailer Here:
