Lucasfilm has detailed its plans for the fiftieth anniversary of the franchise in 2027, anchored by the theatrical re-release of the original 1977 cut of Episode IV and the premiere of a new standalone feature titled Star Wars: Starfighter.
Original 1977 Cut in Theaters
The commemoration begins with the return of the original, unaltered 1977 theatrical version of A New Hope, which hits commercial cinemas on February 19, 2027. This screening marks the first time the untouched print will be distributed in the IMAX 70mm format for select locations, bypassing the digital alterations and CGI additions introduced in subsequent home video and special edition releases over the decades.
Star Wars: Starfighter Premiere
The anniversary slate continues into the summer with the wide release of Star Wars: Starfighter on May 28, 2027. Directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling, the standalone film occupies the traditional late-May release window historically associated with the property. Like the anniversary screening of A New Hope, Starfighter will receive a dedicated 70mm IMAX presentation in select markets, aligning the franchise's technical origins with contemporary large-format exhibition standards.
This dual strategy pairs archival preservation with active theatrical expansion. By granting authorized public access to the 1977 theatrical cut on large format film stock while simultaneously introducing a new narrative entry under Levy's direction, Lucasfilm is positioning the milestone around both retrospective curation and active production.
The decision to utilize 70mm IMAX for both the archival screening and the new feature highlights a commitment to premium, tactile cinematic experiences that have become increasingly rare in an era dominated by digital projection. For the 1977 re-release, enthusiasts have long campaigned for the restoration of the original theatrical print, arguing that the film’s historical significance is inextricably linked to the practical effects and pacing of its initial assembly. By choosing this specific format, Lucasfilm is acknowledging the cultural weight of the film’s legacy, treating the 1977 cut not merely as a nostalgic novelty, but as a technical artifact worthy of high-fidelity exhibition.
Conversely, the inclusion of Star Wars: Starfighter suggests a pivot toward a more focused, character-driven storytelling approach. Shawn Levy’s involvement, paired with Ryan Gosling’s casting, indicates that the studio is looking to leverage high-caliber talent to explore the periphery of the galaxy, moving away from the sprawling, multi-generational sagas that defined the sequel trilogy. The late-May release date serves as a deliberate nod to the franchise’s heritage, reclaiming the original "summer blockbuster" slot that George Lucas pioneered half a century ago.
