The original version and cut of Star Wars: A New Hope is finally returning after 50 years. It will be released in cinemas and likely other platforms – all signs point to 4K.
Ever since the 'Special Edition' releases in 1997, viewers have been forced to accept that Han Solo does not shoot first, unlike in the original theatrical version of Star Wars from 1977.
There were other changes, too, intentionally made by George Lucas to give his films a slightly different expression. The situation has long frustrated fans, but George Lucas sworn that he would not release the original version.
Original version arrives in 2027
Lucasfilm is now owned by Disney, which apparently sees things differently. The studio confirms that the original version, where Han Solo shoots first, is coming back. Harrison Ford has previously expressed support for the original.
- "On February 19, 2027, we'll celebrate the 50th anniversary of Star Wars with a re-release of the 1977 original back for a limited time, in theaters everywhere," Lucasfilm announces.
We will have to wait for more confirmed details, but rumors have been circulating for some time that the original version has not only been prepared for re-release but actually restored in 4K resolution from the original film negatives. There are leaked internal screenshots that support this (link).
We see it as unlikely that Disney has invested this much work just to ride the trend of theatrical re-releases of old movies, so it seems likely the version will also land on Disney+ and/or UHD Blu-ray as a collector's edition. Perhaps on Star Wars Day, May 4th?
Han Solo shot first. 50 years later, the film is returning in the version that proves it. Photo: LucasfilmA new Star Wars era
The re-release ties into the 50th anniversary of Star Wars, later retitled Star Wars: A New Hope, and Disney's preparations for the next Star Wars era.
New Star Wars films are on the way in the coming years; first The Mandalorian and Grogu in May 2026, followed by a 2027 release of Star Wars: Starfighter starring Ryan Gosling.
The most recent film was the ninth chapter, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, which premiered in 2019.
- Source: Lucasfilm
