Part III really never had a chance. It was being panned before it was even released. I guess they disliked Paramount feastering with the ole "cash-cow". However, I do recall a few tid-bits:

1. One company offered Paramount $50 million to obtain to rights for a one-time pay-for-view showing on Xmas eve.

2. You can purchase part III mugs and key rings and Michael's praying poster at video stores.

3. Life magazine had covered the movie in the Dec. 1990 issue. It had beautiful photos.

I can recalling seeing Part III on the first showing on Xmas day. I drove 15 miles extra so I can see the 10:30am showing rather than the 11am. Only a few people in the theater, but what did I care? On top of that, it was a winter storm.