Lucasfilm Sanctions Rare Original Star Wars Screening in London

The British Film Institute (BFI) recently screened the original 1977 theatrical cut of Star Wars: A New Hope at its Film on Film Festival in London, marking the first public showing of this rare print since 1978. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy introduced the screening to assure fans that the event was officially sanctioned and not an illegal showing, addressing internal confusion about the original cut's whereabouts and rarity. This print, predating George Lucas' later edits, notably lacks the subtitle 'Episode IV: A New Hope' and features the controversial original Mos Eisley cantina scene where Han Solo shoots Greedo first—a change Lucas later reversed to soften Han's character. While Lucas has openly criticized this original version, stating he wanted the film to be presented as he intended, fans have long desired access to the initial cut that reflects their first experience with the franchise. The BFI preserved the print meticulously and presented it in its near-original condition, celebrating the physical film medium amid a digital era. The screening was met with enthusiasm from attendees, including prominent directors, and helped dispel fan concerns about its legitimacy.