Lucasfilm has announced that the original Star Wars, later renamed Star Wars: A New Hope, will return to theaters on February 19, 2027, as part of the franchise’s 50th-anniversary celebration. The newly restored version will play in select cinemas for a limited time, including a select number of IMAX 70mm film locations. The announcement was confirmed by Lucasfilm through its official website.
The release is notable because it marks the first IMAX presentation of the 1977 film. However, the announcement does not confirm that the movie will be shown in an untouched original cut or specify which restoration master will be used.
A New Hope Gets Its First IMAX Release
The upcoming theatrical return gives audiences another opportunity to experience the film that launched one of cinema’s most influential franchises. Lucasfilm’s announcement describes the release as a newly restored version of the classic 1977 movie, rather than providing a detailed explanation of its restoration process or editorial history.
The distinction between the original theatrical cut and later versions is important for longtime fans.
While some reports have speculated about which version will be shown, Lucasfilm has not publicly confirmed the exact edit, sound mix, or restoration specifications. For now, the confirmed news is the film’s return, its anniversary timing, and its first IMAX presentation.
Star Wars: Starfighter Will Also Receive an IMAX 70mm Release
The anniversary celebration will continue with Star Wars: Starfighter, which is scheduled to arrive in theaters on May 28, 2027. Directed by Shawn Levy, the new standalone adventure stars Ryan Gosling and is planned for IMAX 70mm film presentations at select locations.
The film’s release date is especially significant because it falls on the same weekend that the original Star Wars opened 50 years earlier.
Levy discussed the timing at D23, saying, “We’re releasing our film on the same exact weekend as the original ‘Star Wars’ 50 years earlier.”
