Twenty-five years after Donnie Darko first introduced audiences to its strange world of time travel, teenage angst and one seriously unsettling rabbit, the cult classic is heading back to the big screen.

Fathom Entertainment and Saga Arts are celebrating the film’s 25th anniversary with a special nationwide theatrical release beginning on “Donnie Darko Day.” The film will screen in theaters from October 2-4, 2026, presented in a new 4K restoration.

Written and directed by Richard Kelly, Donnie Darko stars Jake Gyllenhaal in one of the defining performances of his early career. The film follows troubled teenager Donnie, whose life takes an increasingly bizarre turn after he narrowly escapes being killed by a jet engine that crashes into his bedroom. Soon, he begins receiving ominous messages from Frank, a mysterious figure dressed as a giant rabbit who warns him that the world will end in exactly 28 days, 6 hours, 42 minutes and 12 seconds.

The film also features an impressive ensemble cast including Jena Malone, Drew Barrymore, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Mary McDonnell, Holmes Osborne, Noah Wyle, Patrick Swayze and Seth Rogen.

Originally released in 2001, Donnie Darko struggled to find a mainstream audience during its initial theatrical run but steadily developed a devoted following through home video and midnight screenings. Its combination of science fiction, psychological thriller and coming-of-age drama has since made it one of the most recognizable cult films of the early 2000s.

The 25th anniversary screenings will also feature an exclusive introduction from Kelly, who reflects on the film’s enduring legacy and how Donnie Darko has continued to captivate audiences across generations.

“This was not a film that exploded overnight – it found its audience slowly, and then never let go,” said Shannah Miller, Vice President of Marketing at Fathom Entertainment. “Twenty-five years later, Donnie Darko is back in a new 4K restoration, with Richard Kelly on hand to talk about why it still resonates so deeply with audiences today.”

The special anniversary presentation is being held in collaboration with the American Cinematheque at the Aero Theatre and presented by Saga Arts.

Donnie Darko 25th Anniversary will play in participating theaters nationwide October 2-4, 2026. Tickets are available now through Fathom Entertainment and participating theater box offices.

And remember: 28 days, 6 hours, 42 minutes, 12 seconds…