‘Apollo 13’ Returns to Theaters in IMAX for 30th Anniversary Re-Release

Ron Howard’s Apollo 13 is making its way back to the big screen, this time bigger, sharper, and in full IMAX. Universal Pictures will re-release the space drama in select IMAX theaters from September 19 to 25, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the acclaimed 1995 film.

The re-release marks the first time the complete theatrical cut of Apollo 13 will be presented in IMAX. When the film was initially converted for IMAX in 2002, about 13 minutes were trimmed due to technical limitations of the time. This fall’s presentation restores those missing moments, offering audiences the full experience in a format that amplifies both the film’s scale and intensity.

Starring Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, and the late Bill Paxton as NASA astronauts Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise, Apollo 13 tells the gripping true story of a lunar mission turned rescue effort. Following an explosion aboard their spacecraft, the crew must improvise a safe return to Earth with dwindling power and limited resources. On the ground, engineers and mission control scramble to develop a solution before time runs out.

The film remains one of Howard’s most respected works, praised for its blend of technical precision and emotional depth. Based on the book Lost Moon by Lovell and Jeffrey Kluger, the screenplay was penned by William Broyles Jr. and Al Reinert. The film also features Ed Harris, Gary Sinise, and Kathleen Quinlan in key roles.

Speaking to Variety, director Ron Howard said, “Apollo 13 is a testament to human resilience, ingenuity and teamwork in the face of impossible odds.” He called the anniversary release “a proud milestone for all of us at Imagine.”

First released in June 1995, the film earned nine Academy Award nominations—including Best Picture—and took home two wins for Best Film Editing and Best Sound. It was also a box office hit, grossing more than $355 million worldwide.

Thirty years on, Apollo 13 continues to inspire. With its return to IMAX, a new generation of moviegoers can now witness one of cinema’s most powerful survival stories in a whole new light. You can watch the 30th anniversary trailer below, along with its accompanying poster.

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