Richard Kelly’s feature debut as a writer-director, blending teen angst with elements of sci-fi and horror, did not have a successful run during its initial release, but strong word of mouth kept adventurous filmgoers buying tickets as the number of screens showing the film dwindled. After its home video release generated new interest, pushing it into cult status, the Pioneer Theater in New York City began midnight screenings. Those continued for 28 months straight, only stopping at the distributor’s request when planning for a re-release. That success at the Pioneer continued to fuel the film’s following and solidified it as the new midnight movie of its era.