Earlier this year we learned that the original Star Wars movie “A New Hope”will return to theaters in 2027 to celebrate the franchise's 50th anniversary. However, the curiosity about this return is that when it was announced, Disney did not confirm which version New hope will be released. Back in August told in the Polygon studio at this point, “the film format has not been confirmed.” However, we do know that whatever comes next will also be shown in IMAX.
During it last call to investorIMAX has outlined a tentative schedule through the end of 2027 that includes New hopeas well as many other games such as Christopher Nolan. Odysseyboth upcoming Avengers movies and 2026 resident Evil from Weapon directed by Zach Cregger. However, it is also still not specified which version New hope will be shown.
While we've reached out to Disney again for clarification, we can't help but wonder if the event will mark the return of the theatrical version. Yes, it's 50 years old and the original print probably won't look spectacular. However, there is talk of a 4K restoration of the existing theatrical cut. And although it sounds like some internet legend that someone made up ten years ago and spread around the world, the rumor has a legitimate source.
Back in 2016 Rogue One: A Star Wars Story director Gareth Edwards not only talked about its existence, but also said that he saw it. Speaking to Little white lies podcast at the time, he said, “It literally just got finished. [Production supervisor John Knoll] He suggested we sit down and watch. Obviously I was ready for this.”
He notes that the entire crew planned to take notes while watching the film, but realized when the credits rolled that none of them had done so, explaining, “You can't watch it without getting carried away. It's very difficult to get into the director's analytical space with this film. It just turns you into a child.”
Disney never confirmed Edwards' comments, so it remains to be seen whether we'll end up seeing this. What better time to release it than on such an important occasion as its 50th anniversary?
On the other hand, we might end up getting a straight re-release of the special version of the song. New hopewhich was originally released in the 90s to celebrate the franchise's 20th anniversary. These included new visual effects elements and changes made by creator George Lucas, who wanted to use more modern technology to improve his films. Fans debate whether they are actually improved or not, many of whom I don't agree with Lucas — since they hit theaters.
Although fans will no doubt head to theaters to watch New hope more life once again (or nine more times, your mileage may vary), it's hard to imagine as much excitement about the return of the special edition as there is about the opportunity to experience Star warsas it was originally called, as the first public did in 1977. Either way, get ready to see New hope in theaters and IMAX screens in August 2027.
