Courtesy of Warner Bros.

It’s strange to think that when The Shining bowed theatrically in 1980, it was only a moderate box office success, taking in just over $48 million against an estimated budget of $19 million. That means that many missed their chance to experience the film on the big screen. Though the masses eventually connected with the picture via home video, there’s nothing quite like the theatrical experience. Especially when it comes to a film with such iconic visuals and sound design.

All is not lost for those who’ve not yet had the chance to enjoy the film in theaters, though. The Shining is slated for a retrospective run in IMAX cinemas beginning December 12, 2025. This upcoming screening marks the first time that the flick has been exhibited in IMAX.

Though I think it would have been fitting to stage the picture’s IMAX debut during the spooky season, I’m equally amenable to the idea of taking in the film closer to Christmas. If you’re similarly inclined and want to make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to score tickets, be sure to sign up to be notified when they go on sale.

What is the setup for The Shining?

Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) becomes the winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel in Colorado, hoping to cure his writer’s block. He settles in along with his wife, Wendy (Shelley Duvall), and his son, Danny (Danny Lloyd), who is plagued by psychic premonitions. As Jack’s writing goes nowhere and Danny’s visions become more disturbing, Jack discovers the hotel’s dark secrets and begins to unravel into a homicidal maniac hell-bent on terrorizing his family.

45 years on from release, The Shining has established itself as a cultural touchstone. It’s widely regarded as one of the most effective horror films of our time and now exists as a pop culture meme that’s been referenced in film, television, literature, and various other forms of media.

The film has been endlessly studied, with many pointing to a variety of hidden themes lurking beneath the surface. The documentary Room 237 features a number of surprising interpretations of possible subtext, including a far-fetched theory that director Stanley Kubrick used the film to quietly confess to helping fake the moon landing.

No matter where you stand on the film’s themes or potential hidden messaging, this is one you should endure theatrically at least once. Will you be checking The Shining out in IMAX this December? Make sure to let us know in the comments section!

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