Studio MADHOUSE, renowned for producing a plethora of anime masterpieces, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special treat for fans. As part of their commemorative screenings, they are bringing the psychological thriller film "Perfect Blue" back to Japanese theaters in a stunning 4K remaster. This special event is set to take place across 44 theaters in Japan starting from September 15.

The celebration will kick off with a premiere at a grand anniversary event hosted at Tokyo's Shin-Bungeiza on August 26, setting the stage for the nostalgic and impactful return of this anime classic.

"Perfect Blue," directed by the late Satoshi Kon, made its debut in 1997 at Canada's Fantasia Film Festival. It marked Kon's first foray as a lead director before he went on to create other iconic works such as "Millennium Actress" (2002), "Tokyo Godfathers" (2003), "Paranoia Agent" (2004), and "Paprika" (2006), all under the banner of studio MADHOUSE.

The film's gripping storyline revolves around rising pop star Mima, who transitions from singing to acting and modeling. However, her devoted fanbase is reluctant to let go of her music career. As Mima takes on a role in a popular TV show, her life takes a dark turn when her managers and collaborators start meeting mysterious deaths. The film delves into her struggle with guilt, hallucinations of her past self, and a growing sense of paranoia. As a stalker emerges both in-person and online, the line between reality and illusion blurs, creating an atmosphere of intense suspense.

Shout! Factory, known for producing a Blu-ray release of the film, aptly describes "Perfect Blue" as a psychological thriller that expertly blends reality and fantasy. The film's narrative, deeply rooted in suspense, has earned it the reputation of being one of the most significant animated films in cinematic history.

With its return to theaters in a 4K remaster, fans of "Perfect Blue" can relive the intense emotions and suspenseful moments of this iconic anime masterpiece on the big screen once again.