It's an event that fans no longer expected. Nearly half a century after its release, the original version of Star Wars: A New Hope, as it was shown in theaters in 1977, will finally return to the big screen. The British Film Institute (BFI) has announced that the opening of its prestigious Film on Film Festival, from June 12 to 15, 2025 in London, will take place with this legendary copy, never seen again publicly since 1978.
A long-confined myth in the archives
Since its release, George Lucas's work has undergone multiple retouches and special editions, sometimes modifying certain scenes, such as the meeting between Han Solo and Jabba the Hutt. An original version, without added digital effects or script modifications, which for many purists, embodies the true spirit of the saga. The only (significant) problem is that this version was until now legally unobtainable, kept at hidden from view in the Skywalker Ranch archives or circulating secretly in pirated copies.
George Lucas himself was always opposed to an official re-release, considering the 1977 cut as a half-finished version of his film, and preferring the special edition, more in line with his definitive artistic vision. A situation that is about to change this year.
A cinematic treasure
The copy that will be screened in London is an antique : a vintage film, preserved in optimal conditions for more than 40 years, promising intact visual quality and an authentic experience, just as it was experienced by spectators in 1977. No suspense then, this screening promises to be a unique event for film lovers around the world, as the original version of Star Wars has become inaccessible. It is an opportunity for the BFI Film on Film Festival to honor not only George Lucas's saga, but also the preservation of cinematic heritage on silver film. On this occasion, spectators will also be able to discover rare documents, such as the original annotated script or unseen Polaroids from the shoot.
New hope for a worldwide re-release?
It remains to be seen whether this London initiative will remain an isolated case, or whether it will pave the way for other screenings, or even a possible restoration and worldwide distribution of the original version. However, this resurrection of Star Wars: A New Hope on the big screen represents much more than a simple nostalgic nod. The opportunity of a lifetime for long-time fans to rediscover their youthful emotions, and for the new generation to discover a rare archive of cinema.
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