Rare Star Wars Cut to Screen in London

If you thought you had seen the original 1977 version of *Star Wars*, think again. What you've likely watched are the altered versions released after its initial theatrical run, which George Lucas tweaked to create what became known as the "special editions." However, there's a new hope on the horizon for fans: the chance to experience the untouched original cut of this iconic film.

This June, the British Film Institute’s Film on Film Festival will kick off with a rare screening of one of the few surviving Technicolor prints from *Star Wars*’ first release. According to *The Telegraph*, this print hasn't been shown publicly since December 1978, although it has been available on VHS in the past.

George Lucas began altering the film as early as its 1981 re-release, and since then, Lucasfilm has only permitted screenings of these "special editions." The print to be shown at the festival is particularly exciting for fans; it has been preserved at 23 degrees Fahrenheit for the last forty years, ensuring a viewing experience that should be nearly flawless.

Historically, Lucas has been firm in his opposition to screening the original cut of what is now known as *Episode IV: A New Hope*. In a 2004 interview with the Associated Press, he explained, "The Special Edition, that’s the one I wanted out there. The other movie, it’s on VHS, if anybody wants it. I’m not going to spend the — we’re talking millions of dollars here — the money and the time to refurbish that, because to me, it doesn’t really exist anymore. It’s like this is the movie I wanted it to be, and I’m sorry you saw a half-completed film and fell in love with it. But I want it to be the way I want it to be. I’m the one who has to take responsibility for it. I’m the one who has to have everybody throw rocks at me all the time, so at least if they’re going to throw rocks at me, they’re going to throw rocks at me for something I love rather than something I think is not very good, or at least something I think is not finished."

It's unclear what has prompted Lucas to allow this particular screening, but fans are certainly not complaining about the opportunity to see the original vision of *Star Wars* once again.