Prince (September 8, 1984) – “Purple Rain” Film Advert – Star Tribune

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Sep 8, 1984
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This Star Tribune full‑page advertisement from September 8 1984 promotes Prince’s debut motion picture Purple Rain, celebrating its seventh consecutive week in theatres. The ad features the bold endorsement from Newsweek critic David Ansen, who hailed Prince as “The New Prince of Hollywood.”

Publication: Minneapolis Star and  Tribune

Date: September 8, 1984 Country: United States

The advertisement highlights Purple Rain’s enduring success in Minneapolis cinemas, listing six local venues — Skyway 5, Southdale, Northtown, Hopkins 4, Apache 4, and Brookdale Square — under the banner “7th Week!” The layout combines striking black‑and‑white typography with the film’s iconic logo and Warner Bros. insignia.

The quote from Newsweek underscores Prince’s meteoric rise from local musician to international film star. The tagline “in his first motion picture” emphasizes the cultural milestone of his cinematic debut, which blended autobiographical drama with electrifying live performances.

CONTEXT AND NOTES By September 1984, Purple Rain had become a phenomenon, dominating box offices and solidifying Prince’s dual legacy as musician and actor. The Star Tribune advert reflects Minneapolis pride in its hometown hero’s global breakthrough, marking the film’s sustained popularity well beyond its initial release.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Purple Rain Film Promotion – 7th Week Run Era: 1984 – Minneapolis Sound / Film Debut Period Tone: Celebratory, cinematic, and local Photography: Text‑based layout with film logo and cinema listings

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Newsweek quote: “The New Prince of Hollywood.”
Purple Rain title and Warner Bros. logo
Minneapolis cinema listings for the film’s 7th week run

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