“Buddy: The Sing-Along Version” hits cinemas October 2 — indie horror-comedy scores historic success for Saban Films

The R-rated indie horror-comedy “Buddy” — the killer mascot turned genuine phenomenon — returns to cinemas with a new festive version: “Buddy: The Sing-Along Version” opens in theaters across America on October 2, 2026, ComingSoon reports, citing the announcement by Roadside Attractions and Saban Films.

The new version follows an extraordinary box-office run: the film has grossed more than $25 million in just five weeks, marking the biggest opening of 2026 for a film playing in fewer than 1,800 theaters. “Buddy” has become the highest-grossing film in Saban Films’ history and the third-highest for Roadside Attractions.

As part of the campaign, the “Biggest Night Out” gala premiere will be held on September 29, 2026 at the Alex Theater in Glendale, California — its tickets sold out within just three hours. Director Casper Kelly and cast members Delaney Quinn, Madison Skyy Polan, CJ Williams and Luke Speakman are expected to attend.

In the sing-along version, the lyrics of the songs — including “It’s Buddy!”, “You’ve Got to Be Scared to Be Brave” and “The Wrong Place in Town” — will appear on screen, while audiences are invited to dress up in costume and sing along with the film.

The film stars Cristin Milioti, Delaney Quinn, Patton Oswalt, Michael Shannon, Topher Grace and Keegan-Michael Key. It is directed by Casper Kelly, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jamie King. The story follows Buddy, the orange mascot of the children’s TV show “It’s Buddy!”, whose world darkens when a child refuses to play with him.