The original 1977 Star Wars film is back in theaters! This is a rare opportunity to experience the original cinematic legend.
Lucasfilm has officially delivered great news for long-time Star Wars fans: the original 1977 theatrical release – also known as the original (the theatrical version) – will be restored and re-released in theaters worldwide, starting February 19, 2027.
The original 1977 “Star Wars” will return to the big screen to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
This is the first time in decades that audiences have the opportunity to re-experience Star Wars (later renamed Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope) exactly as it was in 1977, without any changes from the 1997 Special Edition or subsequent digital edits.
This version is famous for its original details such as Han Solo shooting Greedo first (Han shoots first), the absence of CGI-added Jabba the Hutt, and many classic special effects that helped shape the pop culture phenomenon.
The announcement, downloaded directly from the official StarWars.com website, emphasizes that this restored version is “a newly restored version of the classic Star Wars (1977).” This is the same version that the British Film Institute (BFI) had a rare screening of earlier this year, which received positive feedback from the fan community.
The rebirth, released in the wake of Lucasfilm’s 50th anniversary celebrations throughout 2027, marks half a century since the film’s release on May 25, 1977, and forever changed the film industry.
Previously, many fans had worried that Disney and Lucasfilm might choose a Special Edition version that George Lucas preferred, but it was decided this would certainly fulfill the community’s long-held desire to preserve the original legacy.
For today’s younger generation of viewers, who are more accustomed to watching films through streaming or digital versions, this will be a valuable opportunity to experience the raw appeal of one of the most influential films in cinematic history – from its storytelling and realistic effects to the symbolic power of characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo.
