M3GAN Returns with Interactive Chat and New Features

As Blumhouse, the leading horror studio, approaches its 15th anniversary, it's celebrating in style by bringing the 2022 hit M3GAN back to theaters before the sequel arrives. However, this limited theatrical run comes with a twist—it actively encourages smartphone use during the movie, making it a controversial move.

Through its Halfway to Halloween program, Shudder will host special one-night screenings of M3GAN, Ma, and Annabelle featuring Meta’s “Movie Mate” tech. This lets audience members chat with M3GAN via an Instagram chatbot and access exclusive real-time content on a second screen.

A Variety report shared the studio’s explanation: “Movie Mate is only accessible to viewers inside the theater. Just DM the @M3GAN Instagram account to begin the experience.”

“The goal is to use Meta’s technology to enrich the ‘second screen’ experience and build anticipation for M3GAN 2.0, releasing June 27.”

The studio also teased “sneak peeks, exclusive recorded messages from directors and cast, and unexpected guest appearances in select cities.” All in all, this feels like a bold—and polarizing—experiment that challenges modern cinema norms. Only time will tell how audiences respond, but one thing's certain: let’s hope this doesn’t become a trend for standard screenings anytime soon.

Catch M3GAN in select theaters nationwide on April 30, followed by Annabelle on May 7 and Ma on May 14. M3GAN 2.0 hits U.S. theaters on June 27.